Quality of Instruments

Be absolutely certain that the instrument is a good name brand. This is crucial because the investment you are making is an important one. The acoustical design of the instrument and the availability of repair parts is a large factor in your child's success. If you are in doubt as to which brands are the best quality, be sure to consult a competent repair technician. The shiny finish on brass instruments looks pretty, but it does not affect the playability of the instrument. Remember the prettier or new the instrument, the more it will cost to rent. Be sure brass instruments do not have large dents and that their valves and slides move freely. While there are some attractive instruments at extremely low prices available on the Web or locally at places like COSTCO or Wal-Mart, be sure you know what country these instruments are made. Many instruments coming from Southeast Asia are still not up to the standards most teachers would like to see. Also many repair shops refuse to service these instruments if their experience shows poor quality, difficulty obtaining replacement parts or significant durability issues.