A Parent's Guide To Choosing Woodwinds And Accessories

By Leslie Ball


If you are like most parents and have decided that you want your child to play a musical instrument, you have likely done your research. You may know which instrument you want your child to play and may simply be looking for a way to make it financially possible. Here are a few tips that you can use to get the best deal on woodwinds and accessories that your child can learn on and play for many years to come.

This particular category of instruments is rather large. Flutes, clarinets, saxophones recorders and other instruments all belong to the woodwind family. Some are larger and more complex than others. Each instrument has a range of different options that may affect how much they cost.

The age of a child should be the first consideration when picking which one to get for your child. A recorder can be a great initial step into the world of instrumental music. They are often much simpler to play and are more affordable than other options would be. Your child can have fun with it and may not need to be as gentle as they would with a more complex option.

When looking at more complex options, you will hear the terms single- and double-reed mentioned time and again. Single-reed instruments include saxophones and clarinets. They have a single reed which is clipped to the mouthpiece. Double-reed versions have two reeds that are lashed together. This is then plugged into the end of the instrument and the player blows through this. They have a nasal, buzzing quality to the sound. Bassoons, oboes and English horns are all double-reeded. They can be more difficult to play and more expensive to maintain.

If your child is a bit older, you may want to show them the different options that are available. Many music shops will allow you to try them out or at least touch them and look at them up close. They may have suggestions about which option would suit a particular child best. Keep in mind that each instrument will have a range of prices attached to it depending on the quality of the instrument. A professional grade instrument may have a better sound but it will be much pricier than one that is designed for a student or a learning player.

Accessories do not have to be expensive although they can be. To get started as inexpensively as possible, look at buying a case and a stand. You may think a stand is an avoidable expense but it is easier to read music when it is propped up properly in front of you.

You also need to consider the reed itself. Unless your child plays a recorder or a flute, you will need to be buying reeds. A good music shop will help you select the right one for your child. Then, once they find one they like best, you can always purchase them in larger packs so that the cost is reduced.

Music can be a fun and exciting hobby for any child. Learning how to shop for instruments and accessories in an affordable way may mean that you can offer this option to your child when you otherwise would not think it is possible.




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