Buying a Musical Instrument for Your Child

Key points and practical ideas to help you choose an instrument that suits your child's age, abilities, and stage of learning

Do you have a child who wants to learn a musical instrument?

Perhaps you have already enrolled them in a music school, arranged private lessons with a teacher who will come to your home, or maybe you have a musical relative who will teach them. Perhaps you are a musician yourself and want to introduce your child to an instrument.

But sooner or later, an important question will arise:

Which instrument should I buy for my child?

You may be unsure because you want to choose an instrument that suits your child's age and physical size, allowing it to support their learning rather than become an obstacle.

At the same time, you may not know whether the experience will actually work.

Will your child continue learning?

Will they throw the instrument aside after a week?

Or will they decide shortly afterward that they want to learn a completely different instrument?

All of these are perfectly reasonable concerns, and they are questions many parents ask.

In this article, I will try to help you by explaining some of the most important things to consider when buying a musical instrument for your child, along with some practical ideas that may help you make a better decision.

1. The Size of the Instrument and How Well It Fits Your Child

The first thing you should consider is the size of the instrument and whether it is physically appropriate for your child.

Musical instruments often come in different sizes. Violins and guitars, for example, may be available in full-size, three-quarter, half-size, quarter-size, and sometimes even smaller versions.

Drums are also available in different sizes, including models designed specifically for children, often referred to as junior kits.

There is no universal rule stating that a child of a particular age must use a specific instrument size. Children grow at very different rates during their early years. For this reason, it is extremely important for your child to try the instrument, or for someone qualified to help you determine whether it is suitable.

Consider several factors:

• Can your child handle the weight of the instrument?

• Can they hold it comfortably?

• Can they control it with their hands and fingers?

• Can they reach the essential parts of the instrument?

• Can they sit or stand in an appropriate position?

• Can they use the instrument without unnecessary pain or strain?

In some instruments, the feet are also part of the equation. With drums, for example, your child needs to be able to reach and control the pedals.

With a piano, they need to be able to sit appropriately and reach the keyboard. Some children may also need a suitable bench or other support to achieve a comfortable playing position.

Should You Always Choose the Smallest Size Possible?

Not necessarily. Personally, I often recommend choosing the largest size that is still genuinely suitable for your child.

If your child can comfortably handle a half-size instrument but is also capable of using a three-quarter-size instrument, the larger size may be the better choice.

Why?

Because your child will soon grow, and you do not want the instrument to become too small after a short period of time. A larger instrument can also provide a playing experience that is closer to that of a full-size instrument, rather than making the child feel as though they are playing with something that is too much like a toy.

However, there must be a balance. Do not buy an instrument that is larger than your child's ability simply because you want it to last for many years.

If the instrument is too heavy, too large, or too difficult to control, it can become an obstacle to learning. But if your child can reasonably handle it and its weight and size are appropriate, do not worry excessively. I have seen many children struggle with an instrument at first, only to develop an impressive ability to control it with time and practice. Children can constantly surprise you with what they are capable of doing.

2. Price VS brand

Another important question is whether you should buy an instrument from a well-known brand or a very cheap generic instrument from an unknown manufacturer.

Whenever possible, I recommend choosing an instrument from a reputable brand. This does not mean that you need to buy the most expensive instrument in the store. Most reputable brands offer beginner ranges that cost significantly less than their professional instruments.

Their quality may be lower than that of professional models, which is perfectly normal, but they usually provide a reliable minimum standard of quality that is more than sufficient for learning.

Extremely cheap, unknown instruments can create real problems.

For example:

• A guitar strings that sit too high above the fingerboard.

• Uneven or uncomfortable piano keys.

• Drums parts that all has almost the same sound.

• An instrument that cannot stay in tune.

• Components that break easily.

These problems can make the learning experience unnecessarily difficult.

Sometimes, a child may believe that the problem is with them, when the real problem is the instrument itself.

A good instrument does not make learning easy all the time. But it should not make learning harder than it needs to be.

3. Do Not Forget Resale Value

This is an extremely important consideration when buying an instrument for your child.

Children grow. Their physical size changes. Their skill level develops, and they may eventually need a better instrument.

They may also decide to switch to a completely different instrument.

All of these possibilities are realistic. For this reason, it is useful to choose an instrument that has genuine resale value.

If you buy an instrument from a reputable brand, you may be able to sell it later, reducing your financial loss when your child upgrades or changes instruments.

With a very cheap generic instrument, you may later discover that nobody wants to buy it, even if it still works. Before buying, try to do some basic research online.

Look at:

• The price of the instrument when new.

• Its used-market price.

• How widely it is available.

• How easy it is to resell.

• Whether spare parts and servicing are available.

Buying from a reputable brand often provides better security in this regard.

4. What If You Are Not Sure Your Child Will Continue?

This is a perfectly reasonable question. Perhaps you do not know whether your child will continue learning or not. In that case, you may be tempted to buy an extremely cheap generic instrument so that you will not lose much money if your child quits.

But I have another suggestion:

Consider renting or borrowing an instrument before buying a very cheap one.

If this option is available, borrowing or renting a decent instrument for a short period may be a better choice.

This allows your child to experience the learning process before you invest in purchasing an instrument.

If renting or borrowing is not possible, buying a decent beginner instrument from a reputable brand may still be a better choice than buying the cheapest instrument available.

5. Ask About the Setup and Initial Service

This is something many parents overlook.

Most musical instruments require an initial setup or adjustment before they are ready to be used properly.

An instrument may have been stored or shipped for a long period of time.

It may require:

• Adjustment.

• Assembly.

• Inspection.

• Modification of certain components.

• New strings.

• Calibration.

Many stores offer an initial setup or service free of charge when you purchase an instrument.

Ask about this before buying.

With a guitar, for example, it may be useful to check:

• The condition of the strings.

• The string height above the fingerboard.

• The straightness of the neck.

• Tuning stability.

• General playability.

The store may also include a string change as part of the service.

So do not assume that an instrument is perfectly ready to learn on simply because you have taken it out of the box.

Ask the seller:

What service do you provide before delivering the instrument?

6. The Case and Accessories Are Part of the Purchase

When buying an instrument for your child, do not look only at the instrument itself.

A case or bag is important for:

• Transporting the instrument.

• Protecting it.

• Storing it.

• Keeping it safe after practice.

Some instruments come with a bag or case.

Others do not, although suitable cases may be available separately.

Your child may also need:

• A music stand.

• A tuner.

• A capo.

• A strap.

• Picks.

• Cables.

• Headphones.

• A bench.

• Pedals.

• Or other accessories.

Ask about these things before buying, because the instrument price alone may not represent the actual total cost.

7. Look for Beginner Packages

When buying an instrument for your child, you will often find ranges specifically designed for beginners.

In this case, always look for beginner packages and package deals.

Many brands and stores offer packages that include the instrument along with several essential accessories.

For example, if your child decides to learn acoustic drums, buying every component separately can become expensive.

You may need:

• The drum shells and drums.

• Hardware.

• Cymbals.

• A drum throne.

• Drumsticks.

However, beginner drum packages often include most of these items in a single deal.

The same applies to guitars.

You may find a package that includes:

• The guitar.

• A gig bag.

• A strap.

• A capo.

• A tuner.

• Picks.

• And perhaps a small amplifier.

Pianos and keyboards may come with:

• A stand.

• A bench.

• A sustain pedal.

• Or other accessories.

So do not look only at the price of the instrument itself.

Look at the package and compare what you are actually receiving for the price.

Sometimes, a good package is more valuable than buying a cheaper instrument and then discovering that you need to purchase all the necessary accessories separately.

8. Choose the Store Carefully

The store you buy from also matters. Whenever possible, try to buy from an authorized or reputable dealer.

This may give you access to:

• An authentic product.

• An official warranty.

• Maintenance services.

• Spare parts.

• After-sales support.

• Repairs when necessary.

Buying from an authorized dealer also gives you a formal purchase relationship with the manufacturer. If a problem occurs, you have a clear party to contact.

How do you know whether a store is authorized?

Simply ask them.

You can also visit the brand's website and look for a list of authorized distributors or dealers, if one is available.

You will often notice that an authorized dealer carries a wide range of products from a brand rather than only one or two items.

However, remember that the word “authorized” does not automatically mean that a store is the best option. Compare prices. Ask about warranties, after-sales service, setup, and whether accessories are included.

9. Is Buying a Used Instrument a Good Idea?

Yes. In some cases, buying a used instrument can be an excellent option.

However, I recommend choosing a reputable brand so that the instrument has genuine value in the market. If you do not have experience with instruments, it is best to consult someone who does. Your child's teacher may be an excellent option. They may notice problems that are difficult for a parent to identify.

When buying a used instrument, pay attention to:

• Its overall condition.

• Cracks or damage.

• The condition of moving parts.

• The availability of spare parts.

• Whether it can be repaired.

• Its history of use.

• Any available proof of purchase.

It is also preferable for the seller to be willing to give you a short inspection period, or accept a return if a significant problem is discovered that was not apparent at the time of purchase.

There is no single pricing rule that applies to every instrument.

However, the used instrument should normally be significantly cheaper than a new one, depending on:

• The brand.

• Age.

• Condition.

• Market demand.

• Included accessories.

Do not assume that every used instrument should cost exactly half the price of a new one.

Nor should every used instrument necessarily be extremely cheap.

The market varies considerably from one instrument to another.

But even when buying a used instrument, ask for the service and the free setup.

10. The Teacher Is One of the Best People to Consult

Finally, and perhaps somewhat obviously, your child's teacher may be one of the best people to help you choose an instrument.

Do not rely entirely on them. Do your own research. Compare prices. Read about the instrument. But consult the teacher before buying.

You can send them:

• The model name.

• A photo of the actual instrument.

• A product link.

• Its specifications.

The teacher may even be willing to accompany you and your child to the store and help you make the decision.

However, do not expect the teacher to do more than is reasonable. And do not treat their recommendation as an absolute rule.  It is an expert opinion, but it is still an opinion.

Ultimately, the decision is yours.

Finally: Do Not Make the Decision More Complicated Than It Needs to Be

Regardless of the cost or type of instrument, as long as it:

• Is suitable for your child's size.

• Can be handled safely.

• Does not physically restrict them.

• Does not encourage poor playing habits.

• Does not have problems that make learning unnecessarily difficult.

It is probably a suitable instrument to begin with.

Do not let the decision become a source of endless anxiety.

Yes, do your research. Ask questions. Compare your options. Consult the teacher.

But at some point, when you find yourself overwhelmed by the choices, choose a sensible option and begin.

The instrument alone will not determine your child's success. The quality of the lessons, the teacher, regular practice, support at home, and a suitable environment with a comfortable space for practice will all play an important role and may matter more than the small differences between one instrument and another.

The best musical instrument for your child is not necessarily the most expensive, the cheapest, or the most professional.

It is the instrument your child can use comfortably, learn on effectively, feel curious about, and use as a genuine starting point for their musical journey.