Buying Guide

Scholarship Information: 

Many families begin exploring instrument purchases to alleviate monthly rental fees. The LMTSD Music Department is proud to offer a variety of scholarship opportunities for students in need of an instrument to participate in our music programs. LMTSD Music Department has an inventory of school owned instruments that can be loaned to students for an annual, free, no-questions asked scholarship. Please reach out to your child's music teacher directly for scholarship information!

Getting ready to buy your own instrument...

As your young musician enters into serious study of their instrument, you may feel that it is now time to buy your child his or her very own instrument. Why spend all this money renting an instrument, when you can buy it for the same price, right? 

WRONG! Often, the instruments you find listed on Amazon or eBay look like a great price, but the craftsmanship of these instruments make them better candidates for the fireplace or garbage can rather than the music room. If you have already made a purchase of one of these "impostor instruments" please feel free to bring it into school and I will happily do my best to improve its play-ability! 

If you do feel like it is time to make the jump into instrument ownership, please take a moment and review our suggested brands and models for students. Additionally, it is also great to explore your local music stores for used instruments that may offer a great bang for your buck!

In any situation, it is best to ask a variety of performers and educators about your future purchase. Take your time. Test the instruments. Make an informed decision and investment! Don't forget you'll likely need additional accessories too! Click here to learn more.

Used instruments are often available from local music stores and online at retailers like Reverb.com

Deluca Music, Hatboro, PA

Coyle's Richboro Music, Richboro, PA

Music and Arts, Horsham, PA

Suggested Instrument Brands & Models

Please note that these are recommended student models listed below. If you are looking for professional level instruments please consult your child's band or orchestra teacher, or ask your private lesson teacher.

String Instruments

Below are some suggested brands of quality string instruments. Remember you can get a great deal and a quality instrument by buying  it used.

Be sure to avoid "off-brand" instruments listed on Amazon like Mendini, Glory, or Cecilio. Also avoid brightly colored or heavily painted "non-traditional" looking instruments! Don't forget to measure your child for the appropriate size instrument. Click here for a guide for measuring!

Violin, Viola, Cello, and Bass Brands:

Don't Forget!

String instruments come in a variety of sizes to fit the size of each musician. Please be sure to measure your student for the appropriate size.

Band Instruments

Below are some suggested student models of instruments. Remember you can get a great deal and a quality instrument by buying  it used!

Be sure to avoid "off-brand" instruments listed on Amazon like Mendini, Glory, or Cecilio. Also avoid brightly colored or heavily painted "non-traditional" looking instruments!

Oboes:

Flutes:

Clarinets:

Alto Saxophones:

Tenor Saxophones:

Baritone Saxophones:

French Horns:

Trumpets:

Trombones:

Baritones:

Tubas:

Percussion Stick Brands: