This page is in progress. If you need specific info that is not listed, please email me at [email protected]
Buying/ Renting Instruments
The first thing you want to do is decide which method you want to use- usually decided by money. Regardless of the amount of money you spend, you should be able to get a good quality instrument.
Buy new instrument
Buy new- obviously, this is an attractive option for students, but costs more.
Warning #1: Please don’t buy from Amazon, Costco, Walmart, Ebay, pawn shops, flea markets, or garage sales without input from your music teacher.
Warning #2: If a new instrument costs the same as a good quality used instrument, that should be a sign that it is likely cheaply made (material and/or craftsmanship). I usually suggest going with a used instrument over a cheap new one. They will do better over time and retain their value (can be played for more years).
Warning #3: Also, beware of any instrument that is a non-traditional color or material (i.e. pink cello, plastic trumpet). These instruments are generally lower quality and not repairable. Check their warranty.
Warning #4: Always ask what return policy they have. Avoid stores with no/poor return policy.
Warning #5: If you are unsure about anything, or have any questions, please contact your music teacher.
Warning #1: Please don’t buy from Amazon, Costco, Walmart, Ebay, pawn shops, flea markets, or garage sales without input from your music teacher.
Warning #2: If a new instrument costs the same as a good quality used instrument, that should be a sign that it is likely cheaply made (material and/or craftsmanship). I usually suggest going with a used instrument over a cheap new one. They will do better over time and retain their value (can be played for more years).
Warning #3: Also, beware of any instrument that is a non-traditional color or material (i.e. pink cello, plastic trumpet). These instruments are generally lower quality and not repairable. Check their warranty.
Warning #4: Always ask what return policy they have. Avoid stores with no/poor return policy.
Warning #5: If you are unsure about anything, or have any questions, please contact your music teacher.
Buy used instrument
Buy used- is a less expensive option and often you get a typically higher quality instrument, depending on when it was made and by which brand. However, if you choose this option, you probably should double-check with me or someone who knows your instrument choice. Make sure you know what to look for or ask about. Additionally, they will likely need some work from a professional to get into playing shape (I strongly recommend The Horn Shop in Fresno). While this is not usually too much money, it still should be considered in the price. This option will last for many years- some people play the same instrument into adulthood.
Renting an instrument
Renting is usually a good option if the student is trying it out to see if they will want to stick with it or if the parents would prefer to pay a lower monthly fee as opposed to making a big upfront purchase. These are the local retailers where instruments are available to rent:
White's Music
(559) 635-0156
https://www.whitesmusic.net/
Guitar Center
(559) 713-0352
https://stores.guitarcenter.com/visalia
White's Music
(559) 635-0156
https://www.whitesmusic.net/
Guitar Center
(559) 713-0352
https://stores.guitarcenter.com/visalia
Specific instrument info
Flute
Clarinet Proven Quality Brands: Yamaha, Buffet, Selmer, Bundy
When it comes to clarinets, Yamaha is the gold standard. A new Yamaha can be pricey, but the craftsmanship ensures longevity. In general, a used Yamaha is preferable to a new clarinet of most other brands. Other reliable brands are Buffet, Selmer, and Bundy. Jupiter is a decent budget alternative to the previously mentioned models. I have had students start on Jupiters and they work fairly well for the price.
Alto Saxophone Proven Quality Brands: Yamaha, Selmer, Bundy
Whenever possible, I recommend a proven brand (versus the cheapest one you can find). In fact, I always prefer a used, proven brand over a cheaper new brand.
Trumpet Proven quality brands: Bach, Bundy, Conn, Yamaha.
Whenever possible, I recommend a proven brand (versus the cheapest one you can find). In fact, I always prefer a used, proven brand over a cheaper new brand.
Trombone
If money is not an issue, I would say go with a Getzen 351 or Yamaha YSL 354 (either around $800-$1000 new/$300-$700 used); Getzen slides are terrific and of course anything by Yamaha is great. The Kanstul 750 and Bach TB301 are also very good student trombones at a slightly lower price point. If they are looking for more of a value, it would be best to get a used student horn from any one of those brands or Conn, Holton, King, or Olds. Generally, the older horns from those brands are well-built, have great slides, and can take a beating from kids more so than inexpensive new horns. The trombone I learned on (and still play on with students) is a used 1990s Holton that I’ve dropped more times than I can count, but it still plays great.
2 1/2 Octave Bell Kits
(including those who will play snare drum in February)
There are several good options. However, my 2 favorite bell starter kits are the Pearl PK900C Educational Bell Kit with rolling cart, and the Sound Percussion Labs with rolling cart. They are good quality, have a good sound, and come with a rolling cart, which I highly recommend (it doesn't sound like a big deal, but it is.). One kit is available for a little over $200, the other at around $150, at a variety of locations online, and sometimes at local stores like Guitar Center (which should match the lowest price you find online). If you are ordering online, you can google them by clicking their name above and see the many sites that carry it. Locally, Guitar Center sells it, but may have to order it for you.
Clarinet Proven Quality Brands: Yamaha, Buffet, Selmer, Bundy
When it comes to clarinets, Yamaha is the gold standard. A new Yamaha can be pricey, but the craftsmanship ensures longevity. In general, a used Yamaha is preferable to a new clarinet of most other brands. Other reliable brands are Buffet, Selmer, and Bundy. Jupiter is a decent budget alternative to the previously mentioned models. I have had students start on Jupiters and they work fairly well for the price.
Alto Saxophone Proven Quality Brands: Yamaha, Selmer, Bundy
Whenever possible, I recommend a proven brand (versus the cheapest one you can find). In fact, I always prefer a used, proven brand over a cheaper new brand.
Trumpet Proven quality brands: Bach, Bundy, Conn, Yamaha.
Whenever possible, I recommend a proven brand (versus the cheapest one you can find). In fact, I always prefer a used, proven brand over a cheaper new brand.
Trombone
If money is not an issue, I would say go with a Getzen 351 or Yamaha YSL 354 (either around $800-$1000 new/$300-$700 used); Getzen slides are terrific and of course anything by Yamaha is great. The Kanstul 750 and Bach TB301 are also very good student trombones at a slightly lower price point. If they are looking for more of a value, it would be best to get a used student horn from any one of those brands or Conn, Holton, King, or Olds. Generally, the older horns from those brands are well-built, have great slides, and can take a beating from kids more so than inexpensive new horns. The trombone I learned on (and still play on with students) is a used 1990s Holton that I’ve dropped more times than I can count, but it still plays great.
2 1/2 Octave Bell Kits
(including those who will play snare drum in February)
There are several good options. However, my 2 favorite bell starter kits are the Pearl PK900C Educational Bell Kit with rolling cart, and the Sound Percussion Labs with rolling cart. They are good quality, have a good sound, and come with a rolling cart, which I highly recommend (it doesn't sound like a big deal, but it is.). One kit is available for a little over $200, the other at around $150, at a variety of locations online, and sometimes at local stores like Guitar Center (which should match the lowest price you find online). If you are ordering online, you can google them by clicking their name above and see the many sites that carry it. Locally, Guitar Center sells it, but may have to order it for you.
