When your child decides to join the school band, there are many questions you may have as a parent. For many, the concerns center around the instruments and what you need to do as a parent to financially support your child’s latest endeavor. If your child has chosen a smaller instrument, such as a flute, clarinet or trumpet, you will most likely need to provide the instrument yourself as most school programs do not own these smaller instruments. Here are some tips to help you navigate the back to school instrument quandary.
Check with your child’s music teacher first before making any decisions. Make sure you’ve read all of the paperwork that has come home with your child. If your child says there isn’t any, then check their backpack or contact the teacher. Back to school is a very busy time as far as paperwork, but there is bound to be a series of things sent by the teacher regarding this subject meant to help you.
Don’t pull out your instrument from elementary school or Uncle Bob’s from the closet and think that it will work for your child. It might, but only after a professional check up with an instrument repair technician. Do this well in advance of the school year as repair technicians are swamped at this time of year.
In the same vein, don’t buy something off of eBay or anywhere off the internet if you don’t have some professional advice. “Buyer beware” and “you get what you pay for” are often the mantras when it comes to purchasing online. Your child’s teacher is the best resource for suggesting brands and models along with reputable companies to deal with in order to make the safest and best purchase.
Consider renting when your child is starting a musical instrument for the first time. Children are notorious for starting and then changing their minds. Renting is a wonderful option that allows you to consider your child’s commitment before spending a lot of money.
When renting, be sure to read the contract carefully. Contracts vary greatly. Please use a company your child’s band director recommends as the teacher will also be able to help explain any questions you may have and help you navigate potential problems.
Renting any instrument will also typically have a “rent to own” option included, which is a nice way to ease into the purchase of an instrument without the upfront cost. Again, read the contract carefully if you think you may want to utilize this option as you may or may not get the same instrument you are currently renting.
Enjoy this unique opportunity that your child has! You rarely hear an adult bemoan the fact that they learned to play a musical instrument.
Photo by Bridget Miller
