Buying an Instrument 

Purchasing a musical instrument can be a daunting process. Different manufacturers, models, features and prices create a wealth of choices. The following is a list of suggestions and guidelines to help you make a more informed choice.

Overall Considerations:
1) Years of experience – a beginner and an advanced player have different needs.
2) A new student model and a used professional instrument can be roughly the same price – both have their benefits and drawbacks.
3) You do not need to purchase a more expensive model for a beginner. If they continue to play for many years, they will most likely upgrade to a better instrument at that time. A good quality student model instrument will be more than adequate for the first several years of a student’s development.

Most of these items will be available in music stores that sell band instruments. Music stores can be found below. "Step-up" models are encouraged for the more serious musician. Instrument purchases for ICS students should be only from the brand names listed below.

 All of the trombones listed below all have f-attachments. As the student continues and band, a trombone without the f-attachment will impede their technical development and proficiency. If at all possible, please try to invest in an instrument with an f-attachment. An instrument without this option, however, is a workable alternative.

Brands listed above should be purchased, or an equivalent item in another brand.