Playing the trombone

This year Skyler had two choices of what class would alternate with p.e. class. He could either take an instrument, or have a semester of art appreciation, and a semester of music appreciation. Citing studies showing benefits of learning an instrument, I convinced him that taking an instrument would be far more constructive than the other option. (Hopefully he won't hate me forever for that!). So after trying out a few brass instruments last spring, he decided that he liked the trombone the best. School started last week, and on the third school day he got to lug his trombone to school and have his first lesson. He said it went well, and he has practiced every day over the weekend. I'm happy to report that it has sounded better every day!

I bought his trombone online through ebay, and despite all the misgivings I had, and the horror stories I'd heard about, I had a positive experience (and saved a lot of money!). Here are tips to help others who want to save money by buying an instrument online.

1. Before buying, find a store in your area that is able and willing to look at the instrument after you buy it, and fix the instrument if necessary. The day after the trombone arrived, I took it to the local band service store and asked the woman there if it was worth what I paid. She told me yes, although it did need a minor and inexpensive ($10!) fix, which they did.

2. Before bidding on an instrument, make sure the seller offers a money-back return policy. Many did, but many were "as is."

3. Try to find out what brand preferences your child's music teacher has before buying the instrument. Skyler's teacher had a list of preferred brands, which we didn't get until a month after I'd bought the tbone. Based on positive reviews I'd read online, I was trying to buy a Getzen tbone. I had bid on one and had lost the bid. I then bid on a Bach that was closing later in the day, and we won it. I had read good things about Bach, but was disappointed not to get a Getzen. Turns out, I was very lucky. Bach is first on the teacher's preferred list, while Getzen isn't on the list at all.

4. Look at photos of the instrument before bidding. You want to have an idea of what you're getting.

5. Determine a price you're willing to pay (factor in the shipping charge too), and don't go over that price. If the bidding goes higher than your top price, look for another one to bid on. You don't want to spend more than you want to.

I hope this helps other parents who are trying to save money. I'm sure there are other tips, but this is what I can think of right now. Good luck!