Buying Your Child’s First Instrument – What Should You Consider?

It’s finally happened: your kid has the passion to learn how to play an instrument! Maybe they saw a video of their favorite band on YouTube and wanted to learn their favorite song. Maybe they saw their friends learn something cool on the guitar and want to start a band. Or maybe they’re still unsure of their passions and are trying to find what makes them “them.” 

In any case, it’s time to buy your child their first instrument. But with an oversaturated market of “beginner” instruments, how do you know what to look for when purchasing a first instrument? 

In my experience as a teacher, these six factors should be considered when a parent is purchasing a new instrument for their child:

1. Quality

As you’re reading this, I’m sure price was the first thing that came to mind (rest assured that price is on this list.) But most importantly, the quality of the instrument should be considered first. 

Years ago, I taught a student whose mom bought her a new guitar. This particular “instrument” had a sliding nut, strings that detuned every two minutes, and string tension that made the instrument impossible to play well, regardless of who was holding the instrument. 

When purchasing an instrument, make sure that it’s of a decent enough quality to where the instrument can be played well enough to learn on, will stay in decent tune (if it’s a stringed instrument), and doesn’t fight you when trying to play it. This leads me to:

2. Enjoyability

Now, not every instrument has quite as many color selections as the guitar or bass. Still, a decent instrument will help inspire your child to keep practicing, especially if it looks cool! The first few months on any instrument are the hardest, so purchasing an instrument that motivates your child to continue practicing can make a huge difference on their progress.

3. Brand 

When buying an instrument for the first time, brand recognition should play a role in your purchase. There’s a reason that brands like Fender and Yamaha have been around for decades: they put out quality instruments at many different price points. Before purchasing an instrument, Google search reviews on the company you’re buying from.

4. Package Deals

Some instruments offer package deals: amps, straps, cords, and guitars for a relatively cheap price. Brands like Squier and Epiphone offer package deals, so be sure not to miss out on these!

5. Used Instruments

Often overlooked are the used markets of Craigslist and Facebook marketplace. While there is a temptation to buy a shiny new instrument, a good deal on a great instrument could be hiding online for the same price as the “starter instrument” you’ve been eyeing.

6. Price

Finally, there’s the price. Price is often the first thing considered but can lead to some misconceptions on the other factors listed in this article. A high price does not make a quality instrument, and a low price does not make a bad instrument. Ultimately, you know what you are willing to spend, but be sure that you look for the best bang for your buck at whatever your budget is.

Thanks for reading, and stay tuned for more articles from the Musician’s Woodshed!