4 Top Tips for Sourcing Learner Instruments in Edinburgh

Finding the right instrument for a budding musician in Edinburgh can be an exciting but potentially overwhelming experience. Here are four key tips to guide you through the process:

1. Explore School Resources & Borrowing Programmes: Before you even think about buying or renting, check with your child's school. Many independent schools, especially those with established music programmes, offer instrument loan programmes, at least for the initial learning period. This is a fantastic way to gauge your child's interest and commitment without a significant financial outlay. It also allows them to try different instruments before settling on one. Edinburgh council schools provide music lessons and instruments through the City of Edinburgh Council Instrumental Music Service. This service offers free instrumental and vocal lessons to pupils from P4 to S6. While the lessons are free, places may be limited, and not all instruments are available at every school.

2. Weigh Your Purchase Options: Hire, Hire-to-Buy, or Buy Outright: Once you've decided to commit, you have several purchase avenues to consider.

* Hire: This is a good option for beginners as it allows you to try out an instrument and see whether your child will stick with it. It can also be a smart choice if you're on a budget.

* Hire-to-Buy: Some shops offer a hire-to-buy scheme where a portion of your rental fees contributes towards the eventual purchase price. This provides flexibility.

* Buy Outright: Buying outright is ideal if you're confident in your child's commitment and you're seeking a higher-quality instrument from the start. If your child attends a Scottish state school, investigate the VAT Free Assisted Instrument Purchase Scheme, which can offer significant discounts on qualifying instruments.

3. Prioritise Reputable Dealers and Consider Secondhand Options: While online marketplaces can offer tempting deals, be cautious, especially if you're not a musician yourself. Dealing with reputable music shops, either locally or online, is generally advisable. They can offer expert advice, guarantee the instrument's quality, and provide after-sales support. Avoid private online sellers unless you can thoroughly inspect the instrument and have it assessed by a professional.

Don't dismiss the potential of guaranteed, secondhand instruments. Often, you can acquire a higher-quality instrument at a fraction of the cost. Look for instruments that have been serviced and come with a guarantee. Better-quality instruments also tend to hold their value, making them easier to sell on if your child's interests change.

4. Factor in Accessories and Ongoing Costs: Remember that the instrument itself is just the beginning. Factor in the cost of accessories like a case, music stand, tuner, and maintenance items (strings, reeds, etc.) when budgeting. Consider the ongoing cost of lessons, too.

What Makes a Good Learner Piano?

Choosing the right piano for a beginner is crucial for fostering a love of music and developing a solid foundation in technique. Here's what to look for:

* Touch Sensitivity is Key: A key element for any learning instrument is touch sensitivity, often referred to as "weighted keys." This means the keys respond to the player's touch, producing a louder or softer sound depending on how firmly they are pressed. This is vital for developing dynamic control, allowing the student to express themselves musically and understand the nuances of playing.

* Keyboard Range: A Minimum of 4 Octaves: While smaller, portable keyboards might seem appealing initially, a keyboard with a minimum of four octaves (49 keys) is essential. This allows for a decent range of notes and enables the student to play a wider variety of pieces. As their skills progress, they will need the full range of notes to play more complex music.

* Key Width and Feel: The width and feel of the keys are also important. The keys should be of a standard size, allowing for proper finger placement and technique development. Avoid keyboards with excessively narrow or wide keys, as this can hinder progress and lead to poor habits. The keys should also have a comfortable feel, not too light or too heavy, allowing for ease of playing.

* The Importance of the Acoustic Experience: For developing a truly connected playing experience, an acoustic piano is generally the superior choice. The direct mechanical connection between the keys, hammers, and strings of an acoustic piano allows for a more immediate and nuanced response. The player feels the physical impact of their actions, which translates directly into the sound. This connection is vital for developing a strong technique and understanding the instrument's mechanics. Digital pianos, while offering convenience and features, often lack this level of tactile feedback and responsiveness.

* Considerations for Digital Pianos: If space or budget constraints make an acoustic piano impractical, a digital piano can still be a viable option. Choose one with weighted keys that closely mimic the feel of an acoustic instrument. Look for models that offer a range of sounds and features, such as a headphone jack for quiet practice.

In summary, when choosing a piano for a learner, prioritise touch sensitivity, a decent keyboard range, and keys of a standard size. An acoustic piano offers the best learning experience, but a digital piano with weighted keys can be a suitable alternative when space or financial considerations apply. The goal is to provide the budding musician with an instrument that inspires them, encourages proper technique, and fosters a deep connection to the music.

Edinburgh's Musical Hubs: Stringers & The Wind Section

Stringers of Edinburgh

For violins, violas, cellos and double bases. Every instrument passes through the on-site workshop. There is a second-hand beginner violin for every pocket. Stringers also operate a monthly hire scheme and a repair service. www.stringersmusic.com

The Wind Section

Specialists in woodwind and brass instruments. You have the option to rent a new instrument for a 3 month period. The buy-back scheme also allows you to return an instrument within 4 months of the purchase date for a 75% refund. www.thewindsection.com