Beginner Model VS. Professional Model Instruments

Beginner ($500 - $800): These instruments will often be nickel silver or other silver plated materials that make it more durable and affordable. Beginners should look for instruments that have a C foot joint, closed hole keys, and an off-set G key. The C foot joint limits the range of the instrument, but the instrument is smaller which means it is easier to play for younger musicians. The closed hole keys means its easier to cover the holes and play the instrument when you are beginning. Lastly, the offset G key makes it easier to reach for younger players. 

Professional ($1,100 - $10,000): These instruments will often be made of solid silver or gold, which makes them more expensive but drastically changes the timbre and tone quality. The different metals create a richer, darker, and more resonant flute sound. These instruments will typically include a B foot joint, open hole keys, and the options of an in-line or offset G key. The B foot joint will expand the range of the instrument, creating a longer flute that requires more air. The open hole keys allow for a broader range of extended techniques on the flute. Open hole keys allow for micro tones, multiphonics, and glissandos while also encouraging better playing technique from the musician and allowing better control over intonation. The open holes are located on the A, G, F, E, and D keys. Professional model instruments will also offer in-line and offset G keys. In-line G keys promote better playing technique from the musician but are designed for those with larger hands; The likelyhood of damage to the hands and wrist is higher over the long-term with in-line flutes. Offset G keys are easier to play and are far more ergonomic, allowing any hand size to play with ease. In-line vs. Offset G keys are entirely up to personal preference.  Here is a resource from Yamaha explaining all the differences and what they look like.

Mouthpieces: For beginner and professional models, the lip plate on the mouthpiece can be made of different materials, allowing for different qualities in tone. As a rule of thumb for all instruments, Silver creates a brighter and more shrill sound while Gold creates a darker and warmer sound quality. Instruments plated with gold are typically sought after by more advanced musicians as they create better timbres and tone qualities. Some players also may be allergic to silver, so gold would be the better option. As you move towards more professional model flutes, you will begin to find more hands are involved in the creation of the instrument. This means that the musician will have more options in regards to the creation of their mouthpiece. The kind of metal the mouthpiece is made of, the thickness of the mouthpiece metal, and the cut of the embouchure hole are all choices higher-level musicians will have to make that have an effect on the sound and playability of their instrument. 

Beginner Model Instruments

Yamaha YFL-222  - This instrument is entirely nickel plated silver with covered keys, an offset G key, and a C foot joint - $548

Gemeinhardt 2SP Student Flute - This instrument is silver plated with covered keys, an offset G key, and a C foot joint - $479

Prelude by Selmer PFL111E  - This instrument is silver plated with covered keys, an offset G key, and a C foot joint - $469

Selmer SFL201 - This instrument is silve rplated with covered keys, an offset G key, and a C foot joint - $899 

Professional Model Instruments

Yamaha YFL-677H - This instrument is made of sterling silver with open key holes, an offset G key, and a B foot joint - $4,631

Azumi AZ3 - This instrument is made of sterling silver with open holes, a handmade headjoint, and customizable options - $4,599

Di Zhao DZ D-S - This instrument is made of sterling silver with open holes, entirely handmade with customizable options - $7,995

Di Zhao DZ-701 - This instrument is made of sterling silver with open holes, entirely handmade with customizable options - $2,934

Student and Professional Model Piccolos

Yamaha YPC-32 Student Model Piccolo - Resin Body, silver plated keys, nickel silver headjoint, E mechanism - $1,668

Yamaha YPC-62 Professional Piccolo - Grenadilla body and headjoint, silver played keys, E mechanism - $2,607

Supplies for Cleaning 

Most instruments should come with cleaning supplies but just in case yours did not, here are some supplies. Your flute should be swabbed after every use. After you are finished playing, you should dissassemble your flute and use a cleaning cloth in conjuction with a cleaning rod in order to remove all the moisture from the inside of your flute. This is to prevent any oxidization, corrosion, or mold buildup that can damage the instrument over time.  Here is a video about how to properly maintin your flute after playing.

Cleaning Rod - used in conjuction with a cleaning cloth to clean our the inside of the flute- $11

Cleaning Cloth - used to soak up the condensation and clean out the inside of the flute- $10

Miscellaneous Accessories

Pocket Flute Stand - A place to put your flute so you do not have to hold it in your lap - $23.99

Flute Bibles and Method Books

(* means reccomended purchase) 

Hal Leonard Rubank Elementary Method for Flute or Piccolo - Beginning level scale and technique development - $7.99

*Beginner's Book for the Flute by Trevor Wye - Beginning tone development and good tone - $16.99

Flute 101: Mastering the Basics - Beginning flute technique book - $22.99

**De La Sonorite: Art Et Technique by Marcel Moyse - High school / College level tone and embouchure production - $32.00

**Exercices Journaliers pour la Flute by Marcel Moyse - High School / College level for all technique dvelopment - $34.99

17 Grand Exercices Journaliers de Mecanisme by Gaubert - High School / College level for all technique development - $32.99

243 Double and Triple Tonguing Exercises by Victor V. Salvo  - High school / College level articulation development - $8.95

Vibrato Workbook by Dr. Chris Potter - High School / College level vibrato development - $25.99

Beginner vs. Professional Model Instruments

Beginner ($400 - $1000): These instruments are typically made with durability, affordability, and ease of playing in mind. Student model clarinets will typically be made of plastic, fiberglass, or most commonly, resonite. This makes the instrument incredible durable and less prone to be affected by the weather; The cheap material also makes it more affordable. These clarinets will also often have nickel-plated keys, which are more durable and less prone to tarnish. Student model clarinets are built to last and work well for outdoor playing, like that often seen in high school marching band programs. Student model clarinets will also feature a small bore size that is entirely cylindrical. This means that they are easier to play for young musicians and feature a bore that does not change shape further towards the instruments body. The small bore size of these instruments often mean they are easier for young players to keep in tune but provide a very thin sound. As a result of the materisl of the body and keys, as well as the size and shape of the bore, student model clarinets will typically be easier for younger musicians to play, but produce a bright, shrill, and thin quality of sound. The keys on these instruments will also bend and break more frequently than professional models. 

Professional ($1,200 - $5,000): These instruments are made with flexibility, dexterity, volume, and quality of tone in mind. Professional model clarinets will typically be made out of aged grenadilla woodwhich produe a warm, dark, and resonate tone quality that is highly sought after by serious musicians. However, these instruments are more fragile and highly suceptible to being affected by temperature and weather; So extre precautions should be made to make sure the instrument is kept in an optimal environment for the wood. Professional clarinetists will often have to choose between silver-plated or Hamilton-plated keys, which mean they are a blend of gold and silver. The silver played keys will add additional weight to the instrument but helps produce a much darker and rounder tone quality. The Hamilton-plated keys will create a richer and more liquid sound, like melted chocolate. The bore sizes on these instruments will typically be medium-sized or large. Medium-sized bores provide an equal blend of flexibility in pitch and a focused sound. Large bores are the hardest to play with the most air support required, these bore sizes provide the most flexibility and a focused sound that produces a distinct ring sought after by professional players. These instruments will also often have poly-cylindrical bores, which means they gradually grow in diameter as they approach the body. Poly-cylindrical bores provide less flexibility but superior intonation and add to the ring of the clarinets sound. The keying mechanisms and the way these instruments are assembled also typically means they are more responsive than student models. Professional model clarinets will have quicker actions on the keys and the keys are less likely to bend and break under increased use. 

Mouthpieces: Do NOT use the mouthpiece that comes with the instrument. These are typically good for beginners but are quickly grown out of. A mouthpiece upgrade can drastically change the sound on a clarinet and for less serious players, a mouthpiece upgrade can suffice for an upgraded clarinet. The instrument itself is simply an ampifying mechanism for what is happening inside the mouthpiece, so by changing/upgrading the mouthpiece you can change the quality of sound on your instrument. Mouthpieces for clarinets come in three parts: the mouthpiece itself, the ligature that holds the reed in place, and the reeds. The quality of each of these parts can change the sound on your clarinet. 

Beginner Model Clarinets

Buffet Crampon Premium Student Bb Clarinet - This is made out of resonite with silver-plated keys and a poly-cylindrical barrel - $837

Yamaha YCL-255 Standard Student Bb Clarinet - This is made out of resonite with nickel-plated keys and a poly-cylindrical barrel - $588

Prelude By Conn-Selmer Standard Student Bb Clarinet - This is made out of resonite with nickel-lated keys, a poly-cinidrical barrel, and a small bore - $479

Jupiter JCL700NA Student ABS Bb Clarinet - This is made out of resonite with nickel-plated keys and a poly-cynidrical barrel - $1,299

Intermediate / Professional Model Clarinets

Yamaha YCL-450 NM+ Intermediate Clarinet - This is made out of grenadilla wood with nickel-plated keys and a poly-cylindrical barrel - $1,643

Buffet Crampon E12 France Intermediate Clarinet - This is made out of grenadilla wood with silver-plated keys and a poly-cylindrical barrel - $2,580

Jupiter JCL1100S Intermediate Clarinet  - This is made out of grenadilla wood with silver-played keys and a poly-cylindrical barrel - $1,849

Buffet Crampon E13 Professional Clarinet With Nickel Plated Keys - This is made out of grenadilla wood with nickel-plated keys and a poly-cylindrical barrel - $3,613

Buffet Crampon R13 Professional Clarinet With Nickel Plated Keys - This is made out of grenadilla wood with nickel-plated keys and a poly-cylindrical barrel - $4,670

Student and Professional Bass Clarinets

Yamaha YCL -221 Student Bass Clarinet With Low Eb Key - This is made out of resonite, features nickel-plated keys, and has a Low Eb key - $2,613

Yamaha YCL-622II Low C Professional Bass Clarinet - This is made out of grenadilla wood with silver played keys and a Low C key - $10,934

Reeds

Beginners should stay on cheaper reeds starting at 1.5 - 2 strength. Intermediate players should be on 2 or 2.5 strength. Advanced players should be on 2.5 and higher strength. Every player should have a reed case, the plastic holder that comes with the reed is not sufficient as it warps the reed.

Rico - For Beginners - $23.99

Mitchell-Luri - For Middle School/ Early High School - $25.99

Vandoren - Upper High School and Beyond - $37

Rico Reed Case - Holds 4 Reeds - $8.99

Vandoren Reed Case - Holds 8 Reeds - $49.63

Mouthpieces for Bb Clarinet and Bass Clarinet

Vandoren Series M13 Lyre Bb Clarinet Mouthpiece - A standard all-around mouthpiece - $125

Vandoren BD5 Black Diamond 13 Series Ebonite Bb Clarinet Mouthpiece - A dark and rich clarinet sound, espeically in the high register - $185

Vandoren BD5 Black Diamond 13 Series Ebonite Bass Clarinet Mouthpiece - A dark and rich clarinet sound, espeically in the high register - $165

Vandoren B40 Bass Clarinet Mouthpiece - A standard all-around mouthpiece - $186

Ligatures for Clarinet and Bass Clarinet

Rovner Bb Clarinet Ligature and Cap -  For beginning / middle school players - $27.99

Bonade Inverted Clarinet Ligature Only - For high school players. Instant change in sound as the reed is more free to vibrate - $27.99

Cleaning and Maintinence

You should swab out your clarinet after each use to prevent any build up of moisutre. Any excessive moisture build up can cause the wood to degrade, mold to develop in the instrument, or for the metal parts to corrode more quickly. The swab should be inserted through the barrel and come out of the neck of the body. Do NOT force it through if there is resistance. Here is a video on how to swab your clarinet. And here is an article grom Yamaha about how to oil your clarinet keys and maintain the instrument. 

Standard Silk Clarinet Swab - Remember to swab after every use of your instrument - $11.49

Superslick Key Oil - Apply to the moving parts of your clarinet. Be sure not to overapply - $4.59

Cork Grease - Your corks should be greased once a month or so. If it is hard to push the parts together, its time for cork grease - $4.79

Miscellaneous Accessories

These will make the quality of life for playing clarinet easier. 

Mouthpiece Patches - These help reduce vibrations in the head and minimize damage to the mouthpiece from biting down - $10.83

Thumbrest Cusions - This reduces the pain from holding the thumbrest of the clarinet - $6.41

Clarinet Stand - NEVER leave your clarinet free-standing or resting on your chair - $19.99

Method Books

(* reccomended purchase)

Hal Leonard Rubank Elementary Clarinet Method - Scale and technical exercises for middle school - $7.99

**Klosé Celebrated Method For Clarinet - For high school and beyond - $43.99

C. Baermann Complete Method For Clarinet - For high school and beyond - $21.99

*Rose 40 Studies for Clarinet Book 1 and Book 2  - For high school and beyond - Free PDF

Ernesto 30 Caprices for Clarinet - For high school and beyond - Free PDF

Beginner vs. Professional Model Instruments

Beginner ($1,000 - $4,000): The difference between professional model saxophones and professional model saxophones is build quality. A beginner saxophone will typically be made out of a yellow or gold brass material that is cheap and durable. These saxophones are also primarily machined and quality checks are haphazard before they leave the factory. This means that screws will loosen more ferequently, keys and rods may bend more easily, and the instrument might not be as consistent sounding as a professional model. However, these instruments are typically significantly easier for younger musicians to learn how to play on. The key layouts will be more simple and better suited for younger players and it will be easier to get a sound out on these kinds of instruments. Many of these saxophones will have an "angled stack" which means the keys for the left hand are angled for ease of playing. These instruments will also have keys that are mounted "post on body," meaning they are mounted to the saxophones directly by a post. This means the instrument is lighter but doesnt limit vibrations, which creates a brighter sound. Beginner model saxophones have a bright and honky kind of timbre, they can take a beating, and are significantly easier to play than professional models; These make them perfect for students just learning the instrument or those who frequent marching band practices. 

Professional ($4,000 - $10,000): Someone who has been playing saxophone for a reasonable amount of time will notice a signifcant difference in a professional model horn. These horns are highly customizable in all facets of construction. Profesisonal saxophones can typically be made out of gold, broze, or silver alloys which give the saxophone distinctive timbres based on the musicians preference. However, all of these materials work to give the saxophone a darker, richer, and more resonant sound.  The keywork on these instruments is also more advanced than beginner models. On a professional saxophone, springs may be looser which creates more responsive keys and the layout might be more complex but ergonomic for an advanced player. The keys for instruments like these will often feature a ribbed contruction, which means the keys are mounted to metal plates on the body. This adds more weight to the instrument, which limits vibrations and gives it a warmer tone. More human hands are involved in the making of these instruments and the quality checks are at a higher standard, so professional saxophones will typically be easier to play in tune, are constructed with sturdier and tighter mechanmisms, and are less likely to fall apart over time. Some brands for these instruments will also have customizable options for keywork, body materials, body construction, pad materials, engravings, and the list goes on. Overall, intermediate and professional horns will stay in-tune with itself for longer periods of time and will require less work from the musican to make sound good. 

Mouthpieces: Do NOT use the mouthpiece that comes with the instrument. These are typically good for beginners but are quickly grown out of. A mouthpiece upgrade can drastically change the sound on a saxophone and for less serious players, a mouthpiece upgrade can suffice for an upgraded instrument. The instrument itself is simply an ampifying mechanism for what is happening inside the mouthpiece, so by changing/upgrading the mouthpiece you can change the quality of sound on your instrument. Mouthpieces for saxophones come in three parts: the mouthpiece itself, the ligature that holds the reed in place, and the reeds. The quality of each of these parts can change the sound on your saxophone. 

Alto Saxophones

Beginner Model Alto Saxophones

For both beginner and professional models it is reccomended to get one with front F and high F# keys.

Selmer Prelude AS111 Student Alto Saxophone  - This is made of yellow brass with a High F# key and ribbed keys - $1,119

Yamaha YAS-26 Standard Student Alto Saxophone - This is made of yellow brass with a Front F key and post on body keys - $2,550

Selmer SAS301 Student Alto Saxophone - This is made of tellow brass with Front F key, high F# key, and ribbed keys - $2,599

Yamaha YAS-480 Intermediate Alto Saxophone - This is made of yellow brass with Front F key, High F# key, and post on body keys - $2,928

Selmer SAS511 Intermediate Alto Saxophone  - This is made of black nickel with Front F key, High F# key, and ribbed keys - $3,151

Professional Model Alto Saxophones

For both beginner and professional models it is reccomended to get one with front F and high F# keys.

Selmer SAS711 Professional Alto Saxophone - Customizable materials, laquer, and keying mechanims - $3,195

Yamaha YAS-62III Professional Alto Saxophone - This is made of gold with a Front F key, High F# key, and post on body keys - $3,689

Yamaha YAS-82ZII Custom Professional Alto Saxophone - Customizable materials, laquer and keying mechanisms- $4,969

Yamaha YAS-875EXII Custom Professional Saxophone - Customizable materials, laquer, and keying mechamisms - $5,389

Yanagisawa AW02 Professional Alto Saxophone Bronze - This is made of bronze with a Front F key, High F# key, and post on body keys - $5,589

Yanagisawa AW020 Elite Professional Alto Saxophone Bronze - This is made of bronze with a Front F key, High F# key, and ribbed keys - $6,899 

Reeds

Beginners should stay on cheaper reeds starting at 1.5 - 2 strength. Intermediate players should be on 2 or 2.5 strength. Advanced players should be on 2.5 and higher strength. Every player should have a reed case, the plastic holder that comes with the reed is not sufficient as it warps the reed.

Rico - For Beginners - $28.99

Legere Signature Series - For Middle School/ Early High School - $35.99

Vandoren - Upper High School and Beyond - $42

Rico Reed Case - Holds 4 Reeds - $8.99

Vandoren Reed Case - Holds 8 Reeds - $41.36

Mouthpieces for Alto Saxophone

Yamaha 4C Alto Saxophone Mouthpiece - Standard for beginning players; Usually included in purchase of Yamaha Saxophone - $42.99

Vandoren AP3 Profile Alto Saxophone Mouthpiece - Step-up classical saxophone mouthpiece  - $187

Selmer Paris S80 Mouthpiece for Alto Saxophone  - Warm, full-bodied, and broad classical saxophone mouthpiece - $177.28

Selmer Paris S90 Mouthpiece for Alto Saxophone - Universal classical saxophone mouthpiece; Efficient and responsive across whole range - $182.04

Ligatures

Vandoren M|O Alto Saxophone Ligature - High quality, standard ligature for students - $54

D'Addario H-Ligature for Alto Saxophone - High quality, standard ligature for students - $57.99

Vandoren Optimum LC07P Alto Saxophone Ligature - High quality with 3 interchangable pressure plates for different sound and feel - $92

Tenor Saxophones

Beginner Tenor Saxophones
Selmer Prelude PTS111 Student Tenor Saxophones - Yellow brass, High F# key, post on body construction - $1,549

Selmer STS301 Student Tenor Saxophone - Rose Brass, High F# and Front F keys, Post to rib construction - $3,199

Yamaha YTS-26 Student Tenor Saxophone - Yellow brass with a Front F Key with post on body construction - $3,216

Selmer STS511 Intermediate Tenor Saxophone - Yellow brass, High F# and Front F keys, ribbed construction - #3,393

Yamaha YTS-480 Intermediate Tenor Saxophone - Yellow brass with a Front Key and High F# key with post on body - $3,413

Professional Tenor Saxophones

Yamaha YTS-62III Professional Tenor Saxophone - Annealed brass, High F# and Front F Keys, adjustable thumb rest - #3,999

Yamaha YTS-82ZII Professional Tenor Saxophone - Annealed brass, High F# and Front F keys, Ribbed construction, metal pad resonators - $5,757

Yanagisawa TWO2 Professional Tenor Saxophone - Bronze, High F# and Front F keys, ergonomic keywork - $6,229

Yanagisawa TWO20 Elite Professional Tenor Saxophone - Bronze, High F# and Front F keys, ergonomic keywork - $8,229

Selmer Paris 84 Signature Series Professional Tenor Saxophone - Low Bb to High F# keys, metal resonators, high quality materials - $8,999

Reeds

Beginners should stay on cheaper reeds starting at 1.5 - 2 strength. Intermediate players should be on 2 or 2.5 strength. Advanced players should be on 2.5 and higher strength. Every player should have a reed case, the plastic holder that comes with the reed is not sufficient as it warps the reed.

Rico - For Beginners - $41.99

Legere Signature Series - For Middle School/ Early High School - $39.99

Vandoren - Upper High School and Beyond - $30

Vandoren Reed Case - Holds 6 Reeds - $38.58

Mouthpieces for Tenor Saxophone

Vandoren TP4 Profile Series Tenor Saxophone Mouthpiece - Step-up Tenor Saxophone mouthpiece - $207

Selmer Paris S80 Tenor Saxophone Mouthpiece - Warm, full-bodied, and broad classical saxophone mouthpiece - $216.31

Selmer Paris S90 Tenor Saxophone Mouthpiece - Universal classical saxophone mouthpiece; Efficient and responsive across whole range - $222.16

Ligatures

Vandoren M|O Tenor Saxophone Ligature and Cap - High quality, standard ligature for students - $58

D'Addario H-Liagture and Cap for Tenor Saxophone - High quality, standard ligature for students - $64

Vandoren Optimum LC08P Tenor Saxophone Ligature - High quality with 3 interchangable pressure plates for different sound and feel - $92

Baritone Saxophones

For all bari saxophones, a Low A key and High F# is crucial. 

Beginner Bari Saxophones

Selmer SBS311 Student Baritone Saxophone - Rose brass, Low A and High F# key, post to body construction - $5,839

Yamaha YBS-480 Intermediate Baritone Saxophone - Yellow brass, post to body construction, Low A and Front F key - $6,593

Selmer SBS511 Intermediate Baritone Saxophone - Yellow brass, Low A and High F# keys, ribbed construction - $6,676

Professional Bari Saxophones

Yamaha YBS-62II Professional Baritone Saxophone - Premium brass, post to rib construction, Low A, High F#, and Front F keys - $10,091

Yanagisawa BWO2 Professional Baritone Saxophone - Bronze, Low A and High F# keys, ergonomic keywork - $10,779

Yamaha YBS-82 Custom Professional Baritone Saxophone - Customizable features, Low A, High F# and Front F keys - $11,989

Selmer Paris Series III Baritone Saxophone - Yellow and copper brass, Low A and High F# keys, mini rib construction - $15,959

Reeds

Beginners should stay on cheaper reeds starting at 1.5 - 2 strength. Intermediate players should be on 2 or 2.5 strength. Advanced players should be on 2.5 and higher strength. Every player should have a reed case, the plastic holder that comes with the reed is not sufficient as it warps the reed.

Rico - For Beginners - $46.99

Legere Signature Series - For Middle School/ Early High School - $39.99

Vandoren - Upper High School and Beyond - $48

Vandoren Reed Case - Holds 6 Reeds - $38.58

Mouthpieces for Baritone Saxophone 

Vandoren BP3 Profile Series Baritone Saxophone Mouthpiece - Step-up mouthpiece for students - $340

Selmer Paris S80 Baritone Saxophone Mouthpiece - Warm, full-bodied, and broad classical saxophone mouthpiece - $309

Selmer Paris S90 Baritone Saxophone Mouthpiece - Universal classical saxophone mouthpiece; Efficient and responsive across whole range - $312

Ligatures

Vandoren M|O Baritone Saxophone Ligature and Cap - High quality, standard ligature for students - $65

D'Addario H-Liagture and Cap for Baritone Saxophone - High quality, standard ligature for students - $64

Vandoren Optimum LC09P Baritone Saxophone Ligature - High quality with 3 interchangable pressure plates for different sound and feel - $92

Soprano Saxophones

Professional Soprano Saxophones

YSS-475II Intermediate Soprano Saxophone - Yellow brass, High F# and Front F keys, Ribbed construction - $3,029

YSS-875EX Professional Soprano Saxophone - 1 piece body and bell, ribbed and flanged post construction, High F# and Front F keys - $5,145 

Selmer Paris Series III Professional Soprano Saxophone - Brass alloy, Front F and High G keys, metal resonators, mini rib construction - $7,649

Yanagisawa SWO20 Elite Professional Soprano Saxophone - Bronze, High F# and G Keys, metal resonators - $7,659

Reeds

Beginners should stay on cheaper reeds starting at 1.5 - 2 strength. Intermediate players should be on 2 or 2.5 strength. Advanced players should be on 2.5 and higher strength. Every player should have a reed case, the plastic holder that comes with the reed is not sufficient as it warps the reed.

Rico - For Beginners - $26.14

Legere Signature Series - For Middle School/ Early High School - $35.99

Vandoren - Upper High School and Beyond - $28

Vandoren Reed Case - Holds 6 Reeds - $38.58

Mouthpieces for Soprano Saxophone

Vandoren SP3 Profile Soprano Saxophone Classical Mouthpiece - Step-Up mouthpiece for students - $175

Selmer Paris S80 Soprano Saxophone Mouthpiece - Warm, full-bodied, and broad classical saxophone mouthpiece - $152

Selmer S90 Soprano Saxophone Mouthpiece - Universal classical saxophone mouthpiece; Efficient and responsive across whole range - $156

Ligatures

Vandoren M|O Soprano Saxophone Ligature and Cap - High quality, standard ligature for students - $58

D'Addario H-Liagture and Cap for Soprano Saxophone - High quality, standard ligature for students - $38

Vandoren Optimum LC06P Soprano Saxophone Ligature - High quality with 3 interchangable pressure plates for different sound and feel - $92

All Saxophones

Cleaning and Maintinence 

You should swab out your saxophone after each use to prevent any build up of moisutre. Any excessive moisture build up can cause the metal to corrode and mold to develop in the instrument. The swab should be inserted through the bell and come out of the neck of the body. Do NOT force it through if there is resistance. Here is a video on how to swab your saxophone. 

Saxophone Body Swab - This is inserted through the bell and pulled out through the neck hole; Do this at least 3 times - $12.49

Cork Grease - Applied once a month. If it is hard to put your mouthpiece on, then it is time for cork grease - $4.79 

Superslick Key Oil - Apply to the moving parts of your saxophone. Be sure not to overapply - $4.59

Neck Straps and Harnesses

Be sure to pick a neck strap or a harness that best suits your anatomy. Comfort is the primary factor here. 

Protec Less-Stress Neck Strap for All Saxophones - Standard neck strap for any saxophone player; Puts stress on neck over long periods - $21.99 

Protec Universal Saxophone Harness - Distributes weight more evenly across shoulders and back. Be sure to consider your anatomy - $26.99

Neotech Soft Sax Harness Strap - Distributes weight more evenly across shoulders and back. Be sure to consider your anatomy - $49.99

Miscellaneous Accessories

These will make the quality of life better for saxophone. 

Mouthpiece Patches - These help reduce vibrations in the head and minimize damage to the mouthpiece from biting down - $10.83

Alto and Tenor Saxophone Stand - Never let your instrument rest on the floor or in your chair - $29.99

Soprano Saxophone Stand - Never let your instrument rest on the floor or in your chair - $45.99

Baritone Saxophone Stand - Never let your instrument rest on the floor or in your chair - $39.99

Method Books

(* reccomended purchase)

The Eugene Rousseau Saxophone Method Volume 1 & 2 - For absolute beginners on saxophone - $6.95

Larry Teal The Art of Saxophone Playing - Saxophone bible for general aspects of playing sax - $19.99

**Paul Deville Universal Method for Saxophone - This is THE book for saxophone method - $36.99

Eugene Rousseau Saxophone High Tones - For building up the high register - $26.96

Donald Sinta Voicing: An Approach to the Saxophone's Third Register - For building up the high register - $30

*Klose 25 Daily Exercises for Saxophone - Daily saxophone studies - $15.99

Beginner vs. Professional Model Instruments

Beginner: Much like all other beginner model instruments, these will typically be designed with ease of playing and affordability in mind. These instrument will typically feature a two-piece bell, adjustable third valve ring, and are more durable to accomodate the habits of a developing student. Beginner model trumpets will often be made of yellow brass, which creates a bright and shrill timbre. These instruments are usually entirely machined, which helps make them standardized and reliable. Beginner model instruments are also lighter than intermediate or professional models. A beginning student should have no trouble getting their first sounds out and playing with good technique and intonation on a beginner model instrument. 

Professional: These instruments are made to suite the nuanced needs of a professional musician. The high price point for these instruments comes from the fact that they are made with higher quality materials, higher attention to build quality, and are usually handmade. A professional model trumpet will usually be made out of gold brass with a silver-plated or gold laquer finish. These instruments are often heavier than beginner model instruments with a one-piece bell, two-piece vavle casings, and have significantly less air resistance.  All of this leads to an instrument with a darker and warmer overall sound with significantly more flexible intonation. Because the build quality is better than beginner model instruments, a professional model instrument will traditionally play and sound better by default. 

Piston vs. Rotary Valves: As you move into upgrading your trumpet, you are likely to come across instruments that have piston valves or rotary valves. Piston valves are what you normally see on a trumpet, they are straight tubes with holes machined in them so when they are pushed down, the holes align with the instrument tubing. Rotary valves are played horizontally, like the trumpeter is munching on a hamburger. These are circular mechanisms that when pressed, rotate the tubing 90 degress, which connects the tubing at two different points instead of just one. Piston-system trumpets produce a flabouyant, powerful, and brassy sound that is saught after by many trumpeters in jazz bands, marching bands, and wind bands. The rotary-system produces a mellow and warm sound that works well to blend with the stringed instruments in an orchestra. Rotary-system trumpets are popular choices in european countries like Germany and Austria. The reason for the difference in sound comes from the construction of the lead pipe. On a piston-system trumpet, the lead pipe and air coming from the lead pipe remain unchanged for a majority of the length of the instrument. This means that the amplification of the buzz happening in the mouthpiece is largely unchanged. On a rotary-system trumpet, the distance of the lead pipe to the valves is almost halved. This means that the ampflication of the buzz happening in the mouth piece is changed early in the airs journey through the instrument, dampening the sound and allowing for a more mellow timbre and easier blend. Flugel horns operate in a similar way to rotary-system trumpets in this manner; Despite having piston-systems like most trumpets, the distance from the lead pipe to the valves is the same as a rotary-system. This creates a mellow timbre that is heavily utilized by jazz musicians.  Yamaha has a greate article about the differences in construction between piston-systems and rotary-systems.

Nickel vs. Monel Pistons: If you really get into the nitty gritty of purchasing a professional trumpet, you will also have the option of monel or nickel pistons. In the grand scheme of things, the material your valves are made out of should not be a determining factor in your instrument purchase; But the differences are worth noting. Monel is the industry standard for piston construction nowadays, professional and beginner models alike will have monel pistons. That is because the are durable, resistant to degredation, and are harder/heavier. When taken care of, they will give you a consistent response and will virtually never degrade. Nickel pistons, however, are still durable but more prone to degredation. These are also lighter and will produce a "slicker" response compared to monel pistons. Some trumpet players will note that nickel pistons feel faster than other materials. If taken care of, nickel pistols will last you just as long as monel pistons. 

Mouthpieces: As a general rule of thumb for mouthpieces: bigger means darker and lower, smaller means brighter and higher. For trumpet mouthpieces, a deeper cup or larger bore size will typically mean more capacity for playing in the middle and lower registers with an open and darker timbre to the sound. Shallower cups or smalller bore sizes will typically mean a greater capacity to play in the higher registers with less strain or stress; A shallow cup or smaller bore will also mean a brighter sound. Mouthpieces will also either have silver or gold rims. Gold rims work well for those who are allergic to silver and create a warmer overall buzz. 

Beginner Model Trumpets

Yamaha YTR-2330 Student Bb Trumpet - Gold laquered body, 2-piece bell, monel valves, gold brass leadpipe - $1,577

Bach BTR301 Student Premium Trumpet - Clear laquered, 1-piece bell, gold brass leadpipe, monel valves - $1,719

Yamaha YTR-4335GII Intermediate Bb Trumpet - Clear laquered body, 2-piece gold brass bell, monel valves, gold brass leadpipe - $1,871

Bach TR411 Intermediate Bb Trumpet - Clear laquered body, 2-piece yellow brass bell, yellow brass leadpipe, monel valves - $2,059

Professional Model Trumpets

(* rotary trumpet)

Yamaha YTR-8335II Xeno Professional Bb Trumpet - Clear laquered brass body, 1-piece brass bell, brass leadpipe, monel valves - $3,108

Yamaha YTR-8345II Xeno Professional Bb Trumpet Large Bore - Clear laquered brass body, 1-piece gold brass bell, brass leadpipe, monel valves - $3,108

Bach 18037 Stradivarius Professional Bb Trumpet - Clear laquered brass body, 1-piece brass bell, monel valves - $3,399

Bach 19037 Stradivarius Professional Bb Trumpet - Clear laquered brass body, 1-piece brass bell, 2-piece monel valves, bradd leadpipe - $4,399

*Yamaha YTR-938FFMGS Professional Bb Rotary Trumpet - Silver plated body, 1-piece gold brass bell, gold brass leadpipe - $5,996

Mariachi Trumpets

Yamaha YTR-5330MRC Mariachi Series Bb Trumpet - Silver-plated finish, 2-piece gold brass bell, reverse tuning slide - $2,153

Professional C Trumpets

(* rotary trumpet)

Yamaha YTR-8445II Xeno Professional C Trumpet - Clear laquer brass body, 1-piece gold bras bell, monel valves, brass leadpipe - $3,108

Bach C190SL229 Professional C Trumpet - Silver plated body, 1-piece yellow brass bell, brass leadpipe, monel valves - $4,499

*Yamaha YTR-948FFMGS Custom Series C Rotary Trumpet - Silver-plated body, 1-piece gold brass bell, gold brass leadpipe - $5,996

Piccolo Trumpets

(* rotary trumpet)

Yamaha YTR-9835 Professional Bb/A 4-Valve Piccolo Trumpet - Silver-plated body, 1-piece yellow brass bell, 2 sets of leadpipes, monel valves - $4,496

Bach AP190S Artisan Pro Bb/A Stradivarius Piccolo Trumpet - Silve-plated body, 1-piece yellow brass bell, 4 sets of leadpipes, monel valves - $4,999

*Yamaha YTR-988 Custom Bb/A Rotary Piccolo Trumpet - SIlver-plated body, 1-piece yellow brass bell, 2 sets of leadpipes - $7,336

Mouthpieces

Bach 7C  or Yamaha 11C4 Trumpet Mouthpiece - These are the standard for beginning trumpet players - $49 - $65

Bach 3C Trumpet Mouthpiece - This is the standard upgrade for upper middle school / high school players - $65

Bach 1C or Bach 1B - Standard for orchestral playing. Both have wider and deeper cups, but the 1B is deeper - $65 - $85

Schilke 13A4A Lead Trumpet Mouthpiece - Good lead trumpet mouthpiece for jazz or mariachi - $74

Bach 3E Trumpet Mouthpiece - Designed to be used for soprano or piccolo trumpet - $65

Mutes

All the mutes a serious trumpet player will need in high school, college, and beyond.

Denis Wick Trumpet Straight Mute - Standard stright mute for trumpet that will last you forever - $54

Denis Wick Adjustable Trumpet Cup Mute - A high quality and adjustable cup mute for trumpet - $65

Denis Wick Trumpet Harmon Mute - Standard harmon mute for trumpet - $81

Mutec Rubber Trumpet Plunger Mute - Or you can very literally buy a small toilet plunger head from the store - $22.99

Cleaning and Maintenance 

You should be performing a deep clean of your trumpet once a month to prevent oxidization of the metal and overall degredation of the instrument. You should regularly wipe down your tuning slides before you grease them again and you should clean your mouthpiece out after you use it. You should oil your valves and grease your tuning slides every week. 

Here is a helpful video about how to clean your trumpet. 

Blue Juice Valve Oil - This valve oil will not only improve the action on your valves, but it also has anti-corrosive properties - $5.99

Giardinelli Brass Tuning Slide Grease - Make sure you get TUNING slide grease, not just slide grease - $4.99

Yamaha Trumpet Snake - Make sure you are gentle with this so as not to break it off in your horn - $9.49

Protec Trumpet Mouthpiece Brush - Scrub your mouthpiece out once a month and wash it out after every use - $4.99

Microfiber Polishing Cloth - Wiping any stains off of your trumpet ensures protection from corrosion - $5.95

Spit Rags (18ct) - Don't dump your spit onto the floor or carpet. This destroys the materials on the floor and risks someone slipping on it - $10

Miscellaneous Accessories

These will make the quality of life better for trumpet. 

Trumpet Stand - Collapsable and portable trumpet instrument stand - $28.99

Protec Leather Valve Guard - Protect your valves in style - $9.99

Brass Witch Magnetic Pencil Holder - Because a musician without a pencil is pointless - $35

Method Books

(* reccomended purchase)

Rubank Elementary Method for Cornet and Trumpet - A good starting place for beginning trumpets - $7.99

Schlossberg Daily Drills and Technical Studies for Trumpet - A huge compendium of warmups to build technique - $24.99

*Clarke Technical Studies for Trumpet - Technical exercises in all keys - Free PDF Download

Clarke Characteristic Studies for Trumpet - Characteristic studies - Free PDF Download

Concone Lyrical Studies for Trumpet - Natural legato trumpet studies - $27.99

**Arban Complete Conservatory Method for Trumpet - Everything you need to get good on trumpet - $50

Beginner vs. Professional Model Instruments

Beginner: Much like all beginner instruments, these are focused on three things: affordability, playability, and durability. As such, these instruments will typically be made out of cheaper brass alloys with some student models having leadpipes made out of rose brass to reduce corrosion. These instruments also usually have bells made in two pieces with a smaller diameter. This makes them cheaper to produce and helps with intonation and focusing the sound. Beginner model instrumens will typically have smaller bore sizes, which means small shank mouthpieces are best for these instruments. A smaller bore means a naturally more focused and easier to control sound. Finally, the biggest difference between these instruments and professional models is that beginner baritones/euphoniums will likely only have three valves. These are perfect for beginners who are just learning the instruments, but intermediate and advanced players will realize how much this can hold them back very quickly. 

Professional: These instruments are designed for resonance, warmth, and broadness of timbre. A professional model euphonium will typically be made out of a higher quality brass alloy like gold brass. These instruments will also have a 1-piece bell that is hand crafted which help produce a more colorful and nuanced sound. The bore sizes in these instruments will also be larger that of a beginner horn, which means that large shank mouthpieces are needed to play these. A larger bore size means more control of the sound is required, but this produces a much warmer and darker sound that is highly sought after by advanced musicians. Along with a larger bore size, the bell size will also be larger which helps with the instruments resonance and warms up the sound. As you look for a higher quality instrument, you should be looking for a compensating euphonium. These instruments have 4 valves and a compensating system that helps flatten the intonation in the lower register, which is normally sharp. A 4th valves adds alternate valve combinations and allow the player to reach lower notes. This 4th valve can also be used to fix many of the intonation issues present with a 3-valve instrument. A compensating euphonium adds an additional set of tubing that redirects the air through the first and third valves; These instruments will also have 3 top action valves and a fourth valve on the side. 

Baritone vs. Euphonium: The biggest difference between a baritone and a euphonium is the shape of the tubing. A baritione is considered a cylindrical instrument; This means the tubing stays consistent in diameter throughout the length of the instrument. The bore on these instruments is smaller which means the air travels faster and it produces a brighter and more projected sound. A euphonium on the other hand is a conical instrument; This means the diameter of the tubing gradually gets larger as you move towards the bell. The bore is much wider on these instruments as well. The air travels much slower through a euphonium as a result, so the sound is much warmer and more mellow compared to a baritone.  Because of their sound differences, the two instruments are used in different contexts. For its bright and projected sound, the baritone is better used in military style bands, marching bands, or brass bands. This would also be a good instrument to start a beginner on. For its warmer, broader, and darker sound, the euphonium is better suited in a wind band, symphony orchestra, or concert band. 

Mouthpieces: As a general rule of thumb for mouthpieces: bigger means darker and lower, smaller means brighter and higher. For baritone/euphonium mouthpieces, a deeper cup or larger bore size will typically mean more capacity for playing in the middle and lower registers with an open and darker timbre to the sound. Shallower cups or smalller bore sizes will typically mean a greater capacity to play in the higher registers with less strain or stress; A shallow cup or smaller bore will also mean a brighter sound. Mouthpieces will also either have silver or gold rims. Gold rims work well for those who are allergic to silver and create a warmer overall buzz. You should also pay close attention to the bore size and size of the shank. Baritones and beginner seuphoniums have small bores and small shank mouthpiece recievers; So a small shank mouthpiece is needed. These mouthpieces produce a brighter and more concentrated sound. More advanced euphoniums will have larger bore sizes and a large shank mouthpiece recievers; So a large shank mouthpiece is needed. These mouthpieces produce a wider, darker, and warmer sound. 

Beginner Baritones

Jupiter JBR700 Student Bb Baritone - 3-valves, yellow brass, small shank - $2,249

Yamaha YBH-301S Student Baritone - 3-valves, gold brass leadpipe, small shank - $3,245

King 623 Diplomat Student Baritone - 3-valves, 3/4 size for young musicians, small shank, yellow brass - $4,379

Marching Baritones

Yamaha YBH-301M Marching Baritone - 3-valves, yellow brass, large shank - $3,061

Jupiter JBR1101MS Quantum MKII Professional Marching Baritone - 3-valves, yellow brass, small shank - $3,349

King 1127S Ultimate Series Marching Baritone - 3-valves, yellow brass, large shank - $3,569

Beginner Euphoniums

Yamaha YEP-201 Student Euphonium - 3-valves, yellow brass, gold brass leadpipe, small shank, non-compensating - $2,401

Yamaha YEP-321 Intermediate Euphonium - 4-valves, yellow brass, small shank, larger bore size, non-compensating - $2,929

King 628 Diplomat Student Euphonium - 3-valves, yellow brass, non-compensating, small shank - $3,649

Besson BE165 Prodige Euphonium - 3+1 valve, yellow brass, large shank, non-compensating - $3,878

King 2280 Legend Intermediate Euphonium - 4-valves, yellow brass, non-compensating, large shank - $3,859

Professional Euphoniums

Jupiter JEP1130 Professional Euphonium - 3+1 valve, yellow and rose brass, compensating, large shank - $5,749

Eastman EEP526S Professioanl Euphonium - 3+1 valve, rose brass leadpipe, large bore and bell, large shank, compensating - $5,835

Yamaha YEP-642TII Neo Professional Euphonium - 3+1 valves, yellow brass, compensating, large shank - $8,317

Besson 967 Sovereign Series Euphonium - 3+1 valve, yellow brass, large bore and bell, large shank, compensating - $10,961

Adams E1 Selected Seires Professional Euphonium - 3+1 valves, rose brass, large bore and bell, large shank, compensating - $11,191

Mouthpieces

(* means reccomended purchase)

Yamaha 48 - Standard mouthpiece for beginning euphonium players. Should come with a beginner instrument. Small shank. - $69.99

*Bach 6 1/2 AL Small Shank or Bach 6 1/2 AL Large Shank - The best upgrade for middle school and high school players - $85

Schilke 50 Small Shank or Schilke 50 Large Shank - Slightly large bore than Bach 6 1/2 AL. A standard mouthpiece for symphoic band playing - $90

Schilke 51 Small Shank or Schilke 51 Large Shank - Large bowl. This produces a rich and dark tone for orchestral performances. Harder to play. - $90

Mutes

All of the mutes a serious euphonium player will need. Usually for college and beyond. 

Denis Wick Euphonium Straight Mute - Standard straight mute for euphonium. Likely not seen in high school playing. - $173

Cleaning and Maintenance 

You should be performing a deep clean of your euphonium once a month to prevent oxidization of the metal and overall degredation of the instrument. You should regularly wipe down your tuning slides before you grease them again and you should clean your mouthpiece out after you use it. You should oil your valves and grease your tuning slides every week. 

Here is a helpful video about how to clean your euphonium. 

Blue Juice Valve Oil - This valve oil will not only improve the action on your valves, but it also has anti-corrosive properties - $5.99

Giardinelli Brass Tuning Slide Grease - Make sure you get TUNING slide grease, not just slide grease - $4.99

Denis Wick Trombone/Euphonium Snake - Make sure you are gentle with this so as not to break it off in your horn - $14

Giardinelli Brass Mouthpiece Brush - Scrub your mouthpiece out once a month and wash it out after every use - $4.99

Microfiber Polishing Cloth - Wiping any stains off of your trumpet ensures protection from corrosion - $5.95

Spit Rags (18ct) - Don't dump your spit onto the floor or carpet. This destroys the materials on the floor and risks someone slipping on it - $10

Miscellaneous Acessories

These will make your quality of life better on euphonium.

Hercules DS553B Tuba/Euphonium Stand for Performance - This helps relive the weight of holding the instrument - $116

Yoga Blocks - Alternatively, yoga blocks can be used to help support holding the euphonium - $22

Method Books 

(*means reccomended purchase)

***(Araban) Complete Method for Trombone and Euphonium - The standard method book for trombone and euphonium - $60

*(Rochut Etudes) Melodious Etudes for Trombone  - The standard book for legato playing and phrasing - $25

Clarke Techical Studies for Bass Clef Instruments - Technique book for trombone and euphonium - $20

Daily Routines for the Student Euphonium Player - Daily practice for euphonium - Free PDF

Daily Drills and Technical Studies for Trombone - Also beneficial for euphonium - $20

Studies in Legato - Legato and phrasing studies for trombone and euphonium - $20

Beginner vs. Professional Model Instruments

Beginner: Much like all instruments, these have three things in mind when they are made: affordability, durability, and playability. Beginner trombones are typially made of cheaper brass alloys like yellow brass. These instruments will also have bells that are constructed in two pieces. Beginner trombones also have less tubing and are lighter than intermediate or professional models. The bore sizes are also smaller which makes them easier to play. Overall, these trombones are easy to play but produce a very bright and brassy tone quality. 

Professional: These horns are where trombone playing becomes interesting. Professional horns will most likely be made out of more expensive brass like rose brass or will be nickel/silver plated. These horns wil have bells that are one complete, handcrafted piece. The bores on these instruments will often be significantly large which allows the sound more space to resonate but loses the control that smaller bores have; This creates a tone that is warm and dark rather than bright and brassy. The biggest difference in these horns compared to beginner trombones will be the addition of extra tubing which is the result of an F-attatchment. The F-attatchment allows for a wider range of note to be played on the trombone which will be explained further down. Professional horns will take a lot more air to produce a good fundamental sound but are definitly worthwile purchases for high school trombonists. 

Single and Double Rotors: A single rotor system is seen on most professional model tenor trombones. This is a trigger that is placed right where your left thumb will sit on the bell brace. This trigger is called an F-attatchment. When pressed, this lowers the pitch down a fourth to an F below the staff, which opens up an entire new series of chromatic notes for the trombone all the way down to pedal Bb. However, with the F-attatchment depressed, you now only have 6 slide positons instead of 7; The 5th positon is essentially removed. A double rotor system is what is normally seen with bass trombones. Along with an F-attatchment, there is an additional trigger placed on the opposite side of the slide brace where your middle, ring, and pinkie fingers rest on your left hand.  With this additoinal trigger, the number of slide positons possible while depressed is reduced to 5. This additional trigger can do a number of things depending on whether the rotor system is independent or dependent, which will be talked about later. 

Independent and Dependent Rotor Systems: Based on the kind of bass trombone you purchase, it will either have triggers that are dependent or independent. In a dependent system, the secondary trigger will only depress when the F-attatchment trigger is pressed. In an independent system, the secondary trigger will move on its own, regardless of whether the F-attatchment trigger is pressed. In a dependent system, when both triggers are pressed it creates a first positon pitch that is one of two things: an Eb or a D.  In an independent system, the second trigger can be pressed resulting in a G or Gb depending on the fundamental when both triggers are pressed; It is G when the two-trigger fundamental is Eb and it is Gb when the two-trigger fundamental is D. For the widest possible range, you want to look for a bass trombone with an independent system that produces a D as the fundamentla when both triggers are pressed.  Here is a helpful article by bass trombonist Doug Yeo that explains everything I have just said. 

Mouthpieces: As a general rule of thumb for mouthpieces: bigger means darker and lower, smaller means brighter and higher. For trombone mouthpieces, a deeper cup or larger bore size will typically mean more capacity for playing in the middle and lower registers with an open and darker timbre to the sound. Shallower cups or smalller bore sizes will typically mean a greater capacity to play in the higher registers with less strain or stress; A shallow cup or smaller bore will also mean a brighter sound. Mouthpieces will also either have silver or gold rims. Gold rims work well for those who are allergic to silver and create a warmer overall buzz. You should also pay close attention to the bore size and size of the shank. Tenor trombones will often have small bores and small shank mouthpiece recievers; So a small shank mouthpiece is needed. These mouthpieces produce a brighter and more concentrated sound. Trigger trombones and bass trombones will have larger bore sizes and a large shank mouthpiece recievers; So a large shank mouthpiece is needed. These mouthpieces produce a wider, darker, and warmer sound. 

Beginner Trombones

Yamaha YSL-354 Student Trombone - Yellow brass, 2-piece bell, small shank - $1,577

Bach BTB302 Student Tenor Trombone - Yellow brass, small shank, 1-piece bell - $1,759

Yamaha YSL-446 Intermediate Trombone - Gold brass, F-attatchment, medium bore, medium-large shank, 2-piece bell - $2,376

Bach 411 Intermediate Trombone - Yellow brass, large bore, large shank, f-attatchment, 2-piece vell - $2,759

Professional Trombones

Yamaha YSL-620 Professional Trombone - Yellow brass, F-attatchment, large bore, large shank, 2-piece bell - $2,769

Yamaha YSL-882IIO Xeno Custom Progessional Trombone - Yellow brass, F-attatchment, large bore, large shank, 1-piece bell - $3,479

Bach 42B Stradivarious Professional Trombone - Yellow brass, 1-piece bell, f-attatchment, large bore, large shank - $4,159

S.E. Shires Joseph Alessi Q Series Professional Trombone - Gold brass, 2-piece bell, f-attatchment, large bore, large shank, customizable - $4,395

Bass Trombones

Yamaha YBL-620G Professional Bass Trombone - Gold brass, dependent rotors, F and Eb attatchments, 1-piece bell, large bore, large shank -$4,723

S.E. Shires TBQ36YR Bass Trombone - Yellow brass, Independent rotors, F and Gb attatchments, large shank, large bore - $5,363

Yamaha YBL-822G Xeno Professional Bass Trombone - Gold brass, F and D attatchments, Dependent rotors, large bore, large shank - $5,845

Bach 50B3O Stradivarius Professional Bass Trombone - Yellow brass, independent rotors, F and Gb attatchments, large shank - $6,449

Valve Trombones for Mariachi

Yamaha YSL-354VC Valve Trombone - Key of C, medium shank, medium bore, gold brass, 1-piece bell - $2,284

King 3BV Legend Professional Valve Trombone  - Key of Bb, yellow brass, medium bore, small shank - $3,599

Alto Trombones

C.G. Conn 34H Professional Alto Trombone - Key of Eb, small shank, small bore, yellow brass - $2,719

Mouthpieces for Tenor Trombone

(* means reccomended purchase)

Yamaha 48 or Equivalent - Standard mouthpiece for beginning trombone players. Should come with a beginner instrument. Small shank. - $69.99

*Bach 6 1/2 AL Small Shank or Bach 6 1/2 AL Large Shank - The best upgrade for middle school and high school players - $85

Schilke 50 Small Shank or Schilke 50 Large Shank - Slightly large bore than Bach 6 1/2 AL. A standard mouthpiece for symphonic band playing - $90

Schilke 51 Small Shank or Schilke 51 Large Shank - Large bowl. This produces a rich and dark tone for orchestral performances. Harder to play. - $90

*Bach 5G Large Shank - Deep bowl. Produces a full sound across all registers, especially mid to low range. Reccomended for 3rd chair players. - $85 

Mouthpieces for Bass Trombone

(* means reccomended purchase)

Bach 1.5G or Equivalent - Standard mouthpiece for beginning bass trombone players. Comes with most beginner instrument. - $85

*Schilke 59 - All around bass trombone mouthpiece. Powerful in all registers. Great intonation across whole range. - $95

*Schilke 60 - Biggest and deepest bass trombone mouthpiece. Standard for bass trombonists for many years. - $95

Doug Yeo Yamaha Signature Mouthpiece - Designed by Doug Yeo. Large symphonic mouthpiece. Produces a big, dark, and rich sound. - $175

Mutes

Everything you will need in middle school, high school, college, and beyond. 

Denis Wick Tenor Straight Mute and Denis Wick Bass Straight Mute - Stanadard mute that will last you forever. - $75 - $85

Denis Wick Tenor Cup Mute and Denis Wick Bass Cup Mute - Standard mute that will last you forever. - $95 - $115

Denis Wick Tenor Wah-Wah Mute and Denis Wick Bass Wah-Wah Mute - Standard harmon mute. - $85 - $110

Mutec Trombone Plunger Mute - Or you can very literally buy a large plunger head from the store. - $30

Cleaning and Maintenance 

You should be performing a deep clean of your trombone once a month to prevent oxidization of the metal and overall degredation of the instrument. You should regularly wipe down your tuning slides before you grease them again and you should clean your mouthpiece out after you use it. You should oil your rotors, grease your tuning slides, and lubricate the hand slide every week. You should also wipe your hand slide down after every use. 

Here is a helpful video about how to clean your trombone. 

Yamaha Slide Lube - This is for your hand slide. Applied at the end of the slide where the stockings are. - $12.99

Water Spray Bottle - Should be sprayed onto hand slide after libricant is applied. Use only distilled water, never tap water. - $3.99

Giardinelli Brass Tuning Slide Grease - Make sure you get TUNING slide grease, not just slide grease - $4.99

Denis Wick Trombone/Euphonium Snake - Make sure you are gentle with this so as not to break it off in your horn - $14

Giardinelli Brass Mouthpiece Brush - Scrub your mouthpiece out once a month and wash it out after every use - $4.99

Microfiber Polishing Cloth - Wiping any stains off of your trumpet ensures protection from corrosion - $5.95

Spit Rags (18ct) - Don't dump your spit onto the floor or carpet. This destroys the materials on the floor and risks someone slipping on it - $10

Miscellaneous Acessories

These will improve the quality of life on trombone. 

Titan Folding Trombone Stand - Never rest your instrument on your chair or on the floor. Put a sock over this so it doesn't scratch your bell. - $30

Pencil Clip for Tenor and Pencil Clip for Bass - Because a musician without a pencil is pointless - $1.99

Method Books

(*means reccomended purchase)

***(Araban) Complete Method for Trombone and Euphonium - The standard method book for trombone and euphonium - $60

*(Rochut Etudes) Melodious Etudes for Trombone  - The standard book for legato playing and phrasing - $25

Clarke Techical Studies for Bass Clef Instruments - Technique book for trombone and euphonium - $20

*Daily Drills and Technical Studies for Trombone - A perfect warm-up book for trombone players- $20

Studies in Legato - Legato and phrasing studies for trombone and euphonium - $20

To be completed.