Purchasing a Musical Instrument

Flute

The information in this guide has been prepared by the School of Instrumental Music to assist parents. We do not recommend any particular supplier or brand of instrument.

WHERE TO START?

This guide has been prepared to give general advice to parents who are preparing to buy a musical instrument for the first time.

You will need to consider three options. Depending on circumstances and opportunities, any one of these options might suit you at present:

  • Purchasing a new instrument outright
  • Purchasing a second hand instrument
  • Purchase plans or rental programs

1. Purchasing A New Instrument

  • There are many different brands on the market, and some retailers are agents for specific brands.
  • A robust student model is all that is required at this stage - you can upgrade in a few years when your child's playing is more advanced.
  • Check the Yellow Pages and take the time to 'shop around', as you would for a household appliance! Compare brands, models and prices. Once you have found a suitable instrument, you may wish to compare several retailers' prices on that brand and model again before purchasing. Ask for the student price.
  • Some shops offer a trial period, so the instrument can be returned/exchanged if not suitable.
  • Always enquire about the warranty, and clarify what service arrangements can be made for maintenance and repairs of your new instrument.
  • If the instrument is looked after carefully and serviced when necessary, when you wish to sell it you should find that it has held its value well.

2. Purchasing A Second Hand Instrument

  • It is possible to purchase a good second hand instrument, but be careful. Beware of 'bargains'. Sometimes second hand student models have led a hard life!
  • An instrument that requires constant repairs and adjustment is frustrating, so check whether it has been serviced recently before you buy it. Does it have a warranty?
  • Older students at your school or the local high school may be 'trading up' to a more advanced instrument, and you should also check the press and music stores for second hand instruments.
  • Always play the instrument first and get a good idea of how it plays.
  • It is probably better to stick to a well-known brand when buying second-hand.
  • Be aware of the cost of a comparable new instrument in order to assess the value for money. As a 'rule of thumb', a second hand instrument will cost between 1/2 and 2/3 of the new retail price, depending on the age and condition.
  • Some shops offer an advisory service that checks instrument condition and advises of approximate value and cost of any repair work needed. If the instrument is in poor condition, this could be more than the cost of the instrument itself!
  • Make sure that you can access a reputable and reliable repair service.

3. Purchase Plans or Rental Programs

  • Some music retailers provide purchase plans to enable you to pay for an instrument over a period of time.
  • In some circumstances it might be worth considering renting an instrument, especially for an interim period.
  • Some schools and community ensembles own instruments they are prepared to rent to young players in return for participation in the ensemble.
  • A few telephone calls will provide you with a comparison of conditions and costs for purchase plans and rental programs.

WHEN YOU HAVE YOUR INSTRUMENT...

  • Instrument insurance is recommended. Make sure that you record the instrument's serial number.
  • The teacher will teach students what is needed for everyday care for their instrument, and will let you know if the instrument needs maintenance or repair. Do not hesitate to contact your child's teacher.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A STUDENT FLUTE

  • Most young students use a closed key system. Unless your child has large fingers and hands, be wary of an open key system.
  • The better the metal, the better the tonal quality of the instrument. As you would expect, this is also reflected in the price of the instrument!
  • Check also that the case is sturdy and hard-wearing, with strong hinges and catches.
  • If purchasing a second hand instrument, take care to check that the keywork is not bent or damaged, that the pads under the keys are not showing signs of wear, that corks are not missing and that the silver plating is not 'bubbling' or corroded in any way.

There is a wide range of brands, models and prices available. Some brands you may consider are Yamaha, Emmerson, Armstrong, Gemeinhardt, Jupiter, Buffet, Pearl and Sanyko. You may find others of equivalent quality, as this list is not exhaustive.