Band/Orchestra
We continue to service most schools in central Wisconsin and work closely with educators to support and build their band and orchestra programs. Private instructors recommend Northern Music Service for students that require the best possible instrument for that one on one experience. Service is our foundation! If your instrument is rented or purchased from NMS, you are guaranteed it will be properly maintained and repaired as needed.
Band and Orchestra instruments have seen major changes in workmanship, materials, pricing and origin. Some of the best quality instruments are still made in the USA, but the market has really gone global. As an experienced reputable music dealer, NMS continues to offer customers the assurance that our instruments will meet the specifications of the educators and serve the musicians for many years of playing experience.
Questions we receive about instruments are numerous, but we have listed below some common concerns.
Q: What is the difference between a quality name brand instrument and cheaper instruments?
A: The quality of workmanship and materials utilized to manufacture a better level band/orchestra instrument is the primary difference. Low grade, cheaper instruments are mass produced by machine with little to none of the hand craftsmanship, commonly the most inexpensive materials available are used for production. A cheaper instrument is limited in performance, in life span and not always repairable. In the long run, not your best investment.
Q: Which instrument is the easiest to play?
A: Every instrument requires practice to be a proficient well rounded musician. In the woodwind family, clarinet or saxophone are popular with beginners because of the immediate sound and simple fingering for learning. Trumpet is the basic instrument to the brass family and again, very popular. In the string family, violin is the common and the primary instrument to the orchestra.
Q: Are used instruments worth buying for students to start on?
A: This is a difficult question! Some of the older, brand name instruments can be repaired, re-padded, rebuilt or overhauled. The difficulty is in the condition of the instrument, the case & accessories prior to any repairs. Good older instruments can be worth the cost of repair if the value is there. So many times, used instruments are not worth the cost to repair by comparison to a new instrument that was purchased during one of our many sales. The NMS trial rental program is the most affordable, convenient plan for beginners and parents.
