We’re Ready For Band…Now What?

This blog post was originally published in October 2022 but is still very helpful for those that are starting band in the fall!

THREE TIPS FOR GETTING A BAND INSTRUMENT

One of the great things about the Encore Ensembles program is our ability to start band instrument instruction for a student at any time of the year.  Because we are based on private lessons, families can begin when they are ready—not just in September!

So what do you do if your child is excited to play but they don’t have an instrument?  Here are a few bits of information to consider before making a purchase:

Rent-to-own.  One of the most popular ways to get an instrument is to rent from a local music store.  Families can get new instruments by paying a monthly rental fee, usually ranging from $30 to $50 per month, depending on the instrument.  Payments made are put towards the eventual purchase of the instrument.  

Stores also carry the supplies and books needed for instruction.  Music stores have a good inventory on hand, so your child can typically walk out of the store with their entire set-up:  instrument, supplies and book.  An optional but useful add-on is the maintenance package, where for an additional monthly fee families can bring in their rental instruments for repair at any time.

Buy used…but be aware.  Instruments available online via Facebook Marketplace, eBay, Craigslist, etc.  are plentiful.  It is very easy to search for the instrument you need and have many choices appear on your screen.  Although these instruments will be much cheaper than renting a new one, it is important to stick with good reliable brands and not go for the absolute cheapest.  While not the “shiny new thing”, there are some older, beginning level instruments that play well…for low prices. 

You will also need to purchase separately the necessary books and supplies from the music store or online. 

The biggest piece of advice:  ask a music teacher to check out your potential purchase.  You certainly don’t need permission from them, but music teachers can steer you away from “money pits” or verify your “steal of the century!”

Shop around.  For the biggest savings, rent…then buy used!  When renting, music stores typically offer a three-month trial period where families pay just one month’s rental for three months playing time.  This allows families to see your child’s commitment level without making a larger financial commitment.

If you feel confident that your child will continue playing for a few years, look for a good used instrument during the trial period.  There are usually great bargains to be had!

Music is definitely a financial investment——but the dividends that your child will receive in the end are huge!