Find opportunities to hear a live performance or demonstration of the instruments. Or listen to recordings suggested in links for each instrument. In these links, you will also find more detailed descriptions, advantages and disadvantages, range of costs, maintenance and other considerations.

CONSIDERATIONS:

• Instrument and child's size:
  • The string instruments are built in proportionally smaller sizes and can be played by children as young as 3. Special flutes are manufactured with bend in them for younger students. Recorders are available in smaller sizes. Young children are able to handle a regular piano keyboard with an adjustable chair (and a foot stool for the very small).
  • Wind and brass instruments are generally recommended for older children. A tuba is too large for seven-year-old, a saxophone is heavy for children under 12, the trombone requires arms long enough to extend the slide. Fingers must be large enough to cover holes and reach keys and valves.
• Piano is considered a basic instrument and is often. (music programs expect "piano proficiency" )
• Do not overlook so-called "less popular" instruments often have more opportunities. Scarcity of players can increase demand and opportunity.

Voice. Our own personal instrument, no purchase necessary!

Choirs. Orff. Kodaly.

Further Information and Assistance

Updated August 7, 2000
© 2000 Norman Burgess