Expert: Mike Pawul - 6/25/2009

Question
hello, my 11 year old daughter recently started 6th grade band.  we are currently renting a Bach Aristocrat TR600 Bb which if we rent to own the total cost will be $841.00, if we buy early total cost $504.00. my question how long will the trumpet suit her needs if she chooses to play throughout high school? also, what is the difference between this trumpet and a Bach 1530?(found one for $150.00, used one semester) we would rather purchase a trumpet rather than rent to own and one that she can play throughout high school.  is there a different trumpet you would recommend other than the two mentioned?thank you for your time

Answer
Nina, The TR600 is made overseas for Bach and is a good student model. The 1530 is the US made bottom student horn. It is almost a Bundy copy and is ok for her until HS. The 600 probably would be good for her until she starts into jazz band, solo competitions, and ensemble work. Then she probably would want a low pro model. Either one of the horns you mention would be good marching horns since it wouldn't matter at that point if they got beat up. She definitely will not want to take a pro horn outside and twirl it around.

As far as other models go you would want to stay with a student or intermediate horn for the near future. I like the Getzen 390 and you can find a used one in good shape for around $250. New it would be more than the TR600 though. You can usually find used horns that have more value, and are better built, than the new cheaper overseas models. In new horns the Blessing line is reasonable and very well built.