Wayne Parham Messages: 18783 Registered: January 2001
Illuminati (33rd Degree)
I think you'll probably want to stay away from all the strings and wind instruments, if cost is a huge issue. And to tell the truth, that pretty much goes for all instruments. But there are rentals, and that might be your answer.
It used to be that piano was one of the most expensive instruments to own, because even uprights were expensive. But these days, you can buy a pretty good electronic keyboard for $100. So that might be a good option.
Check out pawn shops if you're willing to buy from them. I've seen guitars, flutes, saxophones, and everything in between around here. It was cheaper to buy a flute there than it was to rent one from the music store.
The danger of going for the 'cheap' tag is that one may end up having musical instruments that aren't long lasting. When I wanted to buy my first guitar, a friend advised against being too 'cost conscious' and true to his word, I went for one that has lasted me more than 10 years.
I think it's sensible to buy an inexpensive starter instrument when you're first learning. You can always sell it later and upgrade to a better version once you know it's something you want to stick with. But, I can also see the point of spending more upfront for better quality. I bet you might luck out if you buy a used instrument that's made by a trustworthy company known for making durable instruments.
I think it's sensible to buy an inexpensive starter instrument when you're first learning. You can always sell it later and upgrade to a better version once you know it's something you want to stick with. But, I can also see the point of spending more upfront for better quality. I bet you might luck out if you buy a used instrument that's made by a trustworthy company known for making durable instruments.
Quite so Leot. On the other hand, it can also be worth it to (perhaps) hire an instrument or go for classes where there are a variety of good quality instruments. You can then purchase an instrument of choice, once your mind is made up.
I agree that pawn shops are a good option. I was able to get my first Martin acoustic guitar for only about $100. It was a great guitar, easy to learn to play, action was really close to the neck. I will keep shopping those pawn shops for instruments that I want to learn.