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Getting an Instrument

RENT                                 

The cheapest way to get an instrument is to enroll in a 4 month trial period offered by one of the vendors listed on this page.  Usually you can get a brand new instrument with insurance coverage for 4 months for approximately $40 (Saxophones are more expensive).  At the end of the 4 months you can continue to rent for approximately $30 per month or you can purchase.  This gives you an opportunity to see if your child enjoys the instrument and if they are still excited once the hard work of practicing begins!  

Vendors

BUY                                 

You can purchase an instrument, but we advise you to be careful of deals that seem too good to be true on the internet.  Most quality student instruments cost over $200 to purchase.  The ones that cost less use cheaper materials that can't be repaired by music stores.  So when they break or need maintenance, they cannot be serviced.  Also, many parents are uncertain if their child will stay with the instrument and enjoy it.  Purchasing a quality instrument used is another option.  Reputable brands include Bundy, Yamaha, Selmer, Jupiter, and Bach. 

Approximate costs of new student model instruments:

Snare Drum Kit:  $80-160  (no bells are necessary, just snare drum)

Trombone: $200-500  (PVC plastic trombones are an option at $150)

Trumpet:  $200-500

Clarinet: $200-500

Flute: $200-500

Bell Kit(Xylophone): $80-200

Alto Saxophone: $350-750

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