Beginner Instrument Recommendations

Finding the Right Instrument for Your Child

Choosing the right beginner instrument is a crucial step in a student's musical journey. The Isle of Man Music Service is here to help students and parents make informed decisions and explore the exciting world of music. Below, we have suggested some instruments that parents and carers may wish to consider when looking for a beginner student instrument. These are our recommendations, but there are many more options available on the market. We generally recommend selecting something equivalent to these suggestions to ensure a positive and successful start in music.

If you are interested in an instrument not on the list below or an instrument type that is not listed here, please reach out to the Isle of Man Music Service directly. Our experienced staff can provide personalised recommendations and help you find the right instrument for your child. Contact us at musicservice@iom.sch.im for more information and guidance.

Instrument Families

Woodwind Instruments

Woodwind instruments are known for their rich, mellow tones and are played by blowing air through a mouthpiece. Here are our top recommendations for beginners:

Flute

  • Yamaha YFL-222
  • Gemeinhardt 2SP
  • Jupiter JFL700E

Clarinet

  • Buffet B12
  • Yamaha YCL-255
  • Jupiter JCL700N

Alto Saxophone

  • Yamaha YAS-280
  • Jean Paul AS-400
  • Jupiter JAS710

Brass Instruments

Brass instruments produce sound through the vibration of lips on a mouthpiece. Here are some excellent options for beginners:

Trumpet

  • Yamaha YTR-2330
  • Bach TR300H2
  • Jupiter JTR700

Trombone

  • Yamaha YSL-354
  • Bach TB301
  • Jupiter JTB700

French Horn

  • Holton H179
  • Yamaha YHR-314II
  • Conn 8D

String Instruments

String instruments create sound from the vibration of strings, either by bowing or plucking. Here are some beginner-friendly options:

Violin

  • Stentor Student I
  • Mendini MV300
  • Yamaha V3 Series

Viola

  • Cecilio CVA-500
  • Mendini MA250
  • Yamaha AVA5

Cello

  • Cecilio CCO-100
  • Yamaha VC5
  • Merano MC100

Percussion Instruments (Drums)

Percussion instruments include anything that makes a sound when hit, shaken, or scraped. Here are some starting points for beginners:

Snare Drum

  • Pearl S1330B
  • Ludwig Supralite
  • Mapex MPX

Drum Kit

  • Yamaha GigMaker
  • Ludwig Element Evolution
  • Pearl Roadshow

Guitars

Classical guitars are known for their nylon strings, which produce a softer, mellower sound compared to steel-string guitars. For beginners, starting on a classical guitar is highly recommended due to their comfortable playability and rich tonal quality. The size of guitar is also important (3/4 vs. full size) and must be considered for each individual child. Here are some excellent starting points for beginners:

  • Yamaha C40II
  • Cordoba C1M
  • Alhambra 1C

Assisted Instrument Purchase Scheme (AIPS)

The Assisted Instrument Purchase Scheme (AIPS) allows students to purchase musical instruments without paying VAT, making it more affordable for families to support their child's musical education.

Eligibility and Process

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Students must be in full-time education.
  • Instruments must be used as part of the student's music education.

How to Access AIPS:

Reach out to your school bursar, secretary or the school’s Head of Music to express interest in the AIPS.

The school will provide the required forms and assist you in filling them out.

Once approved, you can purchase the instrument through the school, benefiting from the VAT exemption.

For more detailed information, visit Music Mark's AIPS page.