Monday, March 9, 2015

How To Pick The Right Woodwinds And Accessories For Your Child

By Leslie Ball


Music can be a wonderful pastime for any child. As a parent, however, when they are first considering what instrument to get for their child, the selection can be overwhelming. Woodwind instruments can be a great introduction because of the range of products available. Here is what you need to know about selecting woodwinds and accessories for your child.

This particular category of instruments is rather large. Flutes, clarinets, saxophones recorders and other instruments all belong to the woodwind family. Some are larger and more complex than others. Each instrument has a range of different options that may affect how much they cost.

The age of a child should be the first consideration when picking which one to get for your child. A recorder can be a great initial step into the world of instrumental music. They are often much simpler to play and are more affordable than other options would be. Your child can have fun with it and may not need to be as gentle as they would with a more complex option.

When looking at more complex options, you will hear the terms single- and double-reed mentioned time and again. Single-reed instruments include saxophones and clarinets. They have a single reed which is clipped to the mouthpiece. Double-reed versions have two reeds that are lashed together. This is then plugged into the end of the instrument and the player blows through this. They have a nasal, buzzing quality to the sound. Bassoons, oboes and English horns are all double-reeded. They can be more difficult to play and more expensive to maintain.

You may want to let an older child actually look at and handle an instrument in person. You want your child to be enthusiastic about what they are playing so that it is not difficult to get them to practice. Student model instruments will usually come with a lower price tag.

Accessories can also make playing an instrument much easier. Look for cases that will allow your child to transport their selection to and from lessons. It can also be helpful to store the choice in the case as well to keep it from being damaged. Stands that can be collapsed and transported easily are also great as it can be easier to learn when music is held up and displayed properly.

For woodwind options that have reeds, the choice of reed is important. They can either be very hard or very soft. Some will be easier for a young mouth to use. An experience music store owner will be able to give you advice about which one will suit your child best. You may also want to look at getting a stand that can hold sheet music while your child plays. A portable stand may be a great option if the child will have to travel to and from music lessons.

There are many advantages to giving a child a musical education. The right instrument can spark a life-long interest and passion and may even result in a child ending up with a great career. Choosing what they will play is only the first step in the many years to come.




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