Reliable/Trusted Brands

(2019 update |  created by Bradley Mariska and crowdsourced by BDG)

Just like any product, there are good musical instruments and others that might not be worth the investment. If you are in the market for a new or used instrument, please consult the lists on each instrument's information page (and look, you have LOTS of options!). Please email [Mrs. Norwood] if you find an instrument that is not on this list, as there may be other good instruments out there. With new instruments, you usually get what you pay for. With used instruments, you can sometimes find a name brand instrument as cheap as the ‘generic’ equivalent. But unlike the grocery store, ‘generic’ musical instruments very seldom measure up to the name brand equivalent. This is for many reasons:

1. Instruments made by companies listed below have a history of producing quality instruments. Generally speaking, they are designed and built by expert craftsmen. (Though always consult with a director before purchasing - in some situations only a certain model or vintage of an instrument brand may be recommended)

2. Instruments from these companies use/used quality materials. The instruments are more reliable, have a longer lifespan, and parts are easily repaired and replaced if a problem develops. (Note: several of the manufacturers listed below no longer exist and instruments may not be available as new, but are still in circulation)

3. Because they are crafted by experts and designed with quality materials, students can produce a quality sound more easily.

4. Repair technicians keep parts in stock for these instruments. These companies use standardized parts and materials that a repair technician can fix. Low-quality instruments use parts that aren’t compatible - don’t buy an instrument that cannot be repaired! It’s a waste of money.  Also,  low-quality instruments are sometimes made of sub-standard metal that is either very soft or extremely brittle and repair techs often won’t work on them. 

5. Just because an instrument is shiny, it doesn’t mean it will work well. Also, just because an instrument is cheap, it doesn’t necessarily mean you’re “getting a deal.”  You’re better off saving your money and investing in a better instrument down the road or talking to a director to find a quality used instrument.

6. Even from the brands listed below, some models are better than others … or sometimes a vintage (used) instrument is actually better than the new ones. So...

7. ALWAYS CONTACT A DIRECTOR BEFORE BUYING – WE’RE HAPPY TO HELP, NO MATTER WHAT YOUR BUDGET!