Buy or rent?
“Buying second-hand is more risky, unless you’ve got someone that knows what they’re looking for,” says Brand Manager Neil Haworth, who is also a luthier – he builds and repairs guitars.
Where to buy “Definitely go to a professional,” says Neil. Ask at your local music shop which staff member specialises in the instrument of your choice, and talk to them about what you’re looking for. It’s unusual to find staff at a music shop that are not living and breathing music. “All the staff at MusicWorks stores are musos,” says Neil.
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When you’re just starting out, it’s wise to rent rather than buy, particularly with more expensive instruments like the flute, saxophone or trumpet. There’s also second hand or rent-to-buy. Tom Kroon’s MusicWorks Howick loans instruments, which you can then purchase, less the amount you’ve spent on the rental, for up to two years.
How much to spend Starter packs are an affordable option for people starting out. The electric guitar, bass and acoustic packs at MusicWorks range from $100-200 and come with a bag, the instrument and an instruction DVD. There are ¾-size guitars for 8–9-year-olds and ½-size guitars for even younger players. The latest model may not be necessary. Ask around for any older models, specials or floor models – i.e. instruments that have been on the shop floor for a while. When you’re just starting out, the feel and size of the instrument is the most important thing. You can worry about the aesthetics later, once you know what you’re doing. And don’t forget, your voice can be your instrument too.
Best advice? “Play everything and buy what you like, not what your mate likes,” says Neil.
Tom Kroon’s MusicWorks
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