Thursday, March 5, 2015

How To Pick The Right Woodwinds And Accessories For Your Child

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 learn that many instruments fall into the woodwind family. You may know about clarinets, flutes and saxophones but this is only the top of the iceberg. Some lesser known members of this orchestral family include oboes, bassoons and English horns. Even the simple recorder is part of this group of music makers. You can choose options that are more complex or simpler depending on your child's skill and interest level.

One thing to consider first is how old your child is and whether they have any experience playing a musical instrument. For a very young child, you may want to start them off with a recorder. They can learn how to read music as well as other basics on an instrument that is affordable and easy to learn.

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.

A trip to a music store may actually be more productive than looking online. You may want to take your child with you so they can try out the different options available. You may be able to rent an instrument rather than buying it right off the bat. This can make it more affordable to start your child on a musical path. Look for options that are made of plastic instead of wood. Student models are usually much more inexpensive than professional grade versions.

Once you have the instrument you can begin to look at accessories as well. One thing to purchase is a case. There are hard and soft options available. They protect the instrument and make it easy to carry. For large instruments such as a bassoon, the instrument will need to be disassembled to put into the case.

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.

There are many advantages to giving a child a musical education. The right instrument can spark a life-long interest and passion and may even result in a child ending up with a great career. Choosing what they will play is only the first step in the many years to come.




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