Monday, March 9, 2015

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.

You may be surprised to find out how large this family of instruments are. Keep in mind that learning one type of woodwind can help your child transition to another type at a later date. Some are less expensive than others simply because they are more common and are manufactured more often. Certain woodwind options will also be less simply because of the materials that are used to make them. Look at all of your options before you make your final selection.

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.

Reeds seem like they are inexpensive but they are very important. Look at trying a few individual samples so that your child learns what feels best. Then consider buying a larger pack of them to lower the cost per piece. This can make it more affordable and also avoid running out at night when a music shop might be closed.

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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