DD10 is in 5th grade and is starting band at school this year. She selected the french horn. She has never played an instrument other than noodling around on our piano. We are just in the beginner/"trying it" phase.
Our district will rent the instruments to the us for $100 for the school year. The band director described the horn as playable but not in great condition. He suggested rental through one of the local music shops because the horn would be better quality. I looked online and rates for the french horn are $50-60 per month. Some said they have rent to own programs but didn't give details on the websites.
I have never played an instrument. How important is the quality of the instrument when you first start playing? If we do the school district's horn, we could supplement with private instruction. If we do the rental horn, we probably can't afford additional private lessons. Any thoughts?
