Whatever instrument you are buying what you choose may be serving you for many years and learning with the right tools from the start sets you up for success. Please do get in touch and I can help you make the best choice for your budget.

Piano

Pupils need the right instrument at home in order to make the best possible progress. For this reason, all piano students, regardless of age or ability, are required to have an acoustic piano for home practice.

I do not teach students who have keyboards or digital pianos at home, as they cannot replicate the touch, tone, responsiveness and pedal control of an acoustic instrument. These differences make it much more difficult for students to develop good technique and musical expression, and to reinforce effectively the skills learned during lessons.

An acoustic piano need not be expensive. Many excellent upright pianos are available for a similar price to a good-quality digital instrument, while also retaining their value well over time. In addition, acoustic pianos are frequently advertised free to a good home, as the owner simply wishes to avoid disposal or removal costs. With professional advice, these can often provide an excellent and economical instrument for a beginner.

If you are considering lessons but do not yet own an acoustic piano, I would be delighted to advise you on choosing a suitable instrument before lessons begin.‍ ‍

Flute

A good quality instrument that enables sound making early on is important. Be careful about second hand instruments online unless they are from a reputable dealer as sometimes the costs of repair/servicing to make the instrument playable exceed the flutes’ value. If you need help sourcing an instrument please let me know.

Recorder

For recorders we are fortunate in that there are many inexpensive options out there. Some however are definitely better than others! Beginners start on a plastic instrument. Please contact me before buying. All plastic recorders are definitely not made equal!