Buying Guides · Since 1901

Expert advice for every student and director

From a first rental to a contest-ready step-up — clear, practical guides written by the people who outfit Texas band and orchestra programs.

Explore rent-to-own plans Talk to a specialist

Finding the right instrument is easier with a little expert guidance. Brook Mays and H&H Music have helped Texas students, parents, and directors choose instruments since 1901 — from a first-time student's rental to an advanced player's step-up. These guides cover what to look for, how to size and care for an instrument, and how to prepare for contest, written by the people who outfit Texas band and orchestra programs every day.

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Band

Choosing Your Student's First Band Instrument

The best first band instrument is the one your director approves, your student is excited to play, and their body fits comfortably. Check the director's assignment first, then weigh interest and physical fit — and rent before you buy.

Read the guide →7 min

Orchestra & Strings

Choosing a First Orchestra / String Instrument

A first string instrument should be the one your orchestra director assigns, sized correctly to your student, and complete with a properly fitted bow and rosin. Violin and cello are the most common starting points; correct sizing matters more than anything else.

Read the guide →7 min

Rentals & Value

Renting vs. Buying: What's Right for Your Student

For most beginners, renting through a rent-to-own plan is the right first step: low upfront cost, maintenance and repair included, and the freedom to return the instrument. Buying outright makes sense once a student is clearly committed, usually after a successful first year.

Read the guide →6 min

Orchestra & Strings

String Instrument Sizing Guide

String instruments are sized to the player, not by age. For violin and viola, measure from the neck to the middle of the palm with the arm extended; for cello and bass, fit is set by height and seated reach. Use the charts below to estimate, then confirm in store — we size students free.

Read the guide →6 min

Care & Preparation

Caring for Your Instrument

Most instrument repairs come from missed basics: moisture left inside, no oil or grease on moving parts, or rough handling. Wipe down after every session, keep the right consumables on hand, and leave adjustments to a tech. Here's the routine for each instrument family.

Read the guide →8 min

Care & Preparation

Back-to-School Band & Orchestra Checklist

Every band and orchestra student needs the instrument and case, the consumables for their instrument family (reeds, oil, rosin), a few core accessories (music stand, tuner, cleaning supplies), and the items the director assigns. Use the checklist below so nothing's missing on day one.

Read the guide →6 min

Band

Step-Up & Intermediate Instruments: When to Upgrade

Consider a step-up (intermediate) instrument when a student has played two to three years, is committed, and is advancing into a higher ensemble. Intermediate instruments offer better intonation, response, materials, and keywork or setup. Your director's recommendation is the best signal.

Read the guide →6 min

Care & Preparation

Preparing for UIL Contest & Auditions

Strong contest and audition results come from steady, structured practice and an instrument that's in top playing condition. Learn the required music early, practice slowly with a metronome and tuner, record yourself, and get the instrument serviced before the big day.

Read the guide →7 min

By category

Instrument-by-instrument guides

Band Instruments

Woodwinds and brass — student, intermediate, and professional models compared.

Orchestra Strings

Violin, viola, cello, and bass from beginner to professional.

Guitars

Acoustic, classical, and electric — how to choose your first guitar.

Common questions

What instrument should a beginning band student start on?+

Your school's band director gives a specific instrument assignment, so always check with them first. Generally flute, clarinet, trumpet, trombone, and percussion are common beginner band assignments, and violin or cello are common orchestra starts. Our staff can match a director-approved student model to the assignment.

Should I rent or buy an instrument for a beginning student?+

For most beginners, renting is the smart first step. Our rent-to-own plans keep upfront costs low, include maintenance and repair coverage, and apply a portion of every payment toward ownership. If the student stops playing, you return the instrument with no long-term commitment.

How much should I budget for a beginner instrument?+

Student-model instruments typically run about $25–$45 per month on a rent-to-own plan, or roughly $200–$600 to purchase outright. Intermediate (step-up) instruments run $600–$1,500, and professional models start around $1,500. Our staff can show options at every price point in store.

Where can I get help choosing the right instrument?+

Visit any Brook Mays or H&H Music store and our Texas-based specialists will help with sizing, fit, and budget — and back it with our Teacher Acceptance Guarantee and Low Price Guarantee. You can also call (800) 637-8966; Hablamos Español.

Real help from real musicians

Talk to a Brook Mays specialist

Not sure which instrument your director approved, or which size fits your student? Our Texas-based team plays this gear, services it, and outfits school programs every day. Ask us anything — Hablamos Español.

(800) 637-8966Mon–Sat · Texas-based team