Instrument Information
Guitar
Guitar is a great instrument, very portable and social. After 10 lessons you can play hundreds of songs.
People often choose to start with an acoustic, nylon or steel string. If you want to start with electric guitar this is also an option (you'll need to purchase an amp as well).
Adults start on a full size. For children there are different guitar sizes, 1/2, 3/4 and full size. Budget about $130. If possible go for a guitar that is made of all wood, the sound is worth it.
All students will also need picks (about $1), capo ($10-20) and tuner ($20 or download a free app).
Saxophone
The E flat alto saxophone is the most common one played by beginners. Each student will need to start with at least 4 reeds, 2 x 1.5 strength, 2 x 2 strength.
The B flat tenor saxophone is bigger and deeper in sound. Each student will need to start with at least 4 reeds 2 x 1.5 strength, 2 x 2 strength.
Reeds can be purchased in shops or we have them in stock. They start at $5.00 each.
Clarinet
B flat clarinet is the most common one. It’s also the one children play at school. Each student will need to start with at least 4 reeds 2 x 1.5 strength, 2 x 2 strength.
Reeds can be purchased in shops or we have them in stock. They start at $4.00 each.
Buying second hand? Factor in it will need a service approx. $165. Check the pads aren’t mouldy and the keys seal.
Which brand should you buy? Talk to your teacher.
Flute
Starting out you will only need a flute with a C foot joint, sliver plated and closed hole. Buying second hand? Factor in it will need a service approx. $165.
Check the pads aren’t mouldy and the keys seal. All our local shops sell good quality ones, shop around for the sales.
Piano or Keyboard, which one will I buy?
If possible you want: 88 keys full length, weighted keys, and a sustain/damper pedal.
You can get a small $200 keyboard that would do for the short term. Being able to set beats and change the sounds can be really fun. They are portable and have headphones.
There are a range of really good quality electronic pianos like the Rolands that sound and feel close to the real thing. If you can get a piano that's even better.
Children usually stay with their instrument longer if they have a nice instrument to play. It's all about sound. Pianos sound amazing, but they are more expensive.
Click here for an article about piano vs keyboard
Check this out, it has good advice:
Here is a link to Jason's piano shop. He looks after all of our students interested in buying a piano new or second hand. He is very trustworthy and we source our pianos through him.