Recommendation- Speak to your band, orchestra, or private teacher to determine what level instrument you are ready for.

Be Prepared- If you are already playing an instrument bring the equipment you are currently using (e.g. instrument, mouthpiece/reeds, bow). Bring an electronic tuner to check intonation.

Budget-

Bring your teacher, colleague, or friend with you. It helps to have another set of ears to help make your decision.

Purchase a brand name instrument. They are more expensive but are a better investment. A less expensive no name instrument is usually more difficult to play and has an inferior sound. This is a leading cause of frustration for beginning students who give up playing because they can’t make a good tone. It is an unfair test of a student’s talent if he has to overcome problems with an instrument.

Trial Policy-

Take your time-

Try more than 1 instrument-

Play the same music or scales on each instrument

Listen for the core of sound

Play the instrument in all registers and at all volumes in all registers

Know what you want to get out of your instrument. If the student has been playing more than a couple of years it is sometimes better to buy an intermediate level instrument. This will save you money in the long run.