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When purchasing a guitar, begin by asking the questions: What is my commitment level and what are my goals? When uncertain, it is advisable to purchase an inexpensive model. If a student wants to play only "for fun" and does not plan to pursue progress through the RCM grades, then an inexpensive guitar is recommended. The benefit of the inexpensive models is that students are able to experience the guitar with a minimum investment of money.
However, when the student begins to participate and achieve through the RCM examinations, the parent should upgrade the quality of the instrument (CS101C, Raimundo 1492, Yamaha CG111 or above). Unlike the piano examinations, guitarists perform on their own instrument at the exam. Yamaha makes reliable beginner models that are nuisance free in terms of buzzing strings and other unpleasant effects. However, these beginner models do not have the tone (sound quality), dynamic range and timbre contrast by which the RCM will grade the student. If your goals include achieving grade 2 and above through the RCM exams, you may feel confident in purchasing a more expensive model.
I personally feel that a student may take the introductory level and grade 1 exams on a beginner model (C40A or CS40), but that grade 2 is a turning point at which the student may suffer significantly lower marks without being able to display dynamics, tone and timbre.
A nice tone and responsive instrument allows the student to enjoy practicing. Many a student has complained that they practice, but the sound is so bad that they don't enjoy the music coming out of the instrument. Good sound production is a product of proper technique applied to a good instrument.
Many people also purchase a beautiful instrument and then do not pay for a qualified teacher. Weak technique will never produce a good sound quality. If you need to choose between a good teacher or a good instrument, choose the qualified teacher. There is no way to make up the lost time and energy of acquiring poor technique.
In judging the quality of an instrument, I can firmly attest to the fact that you get what you pay for with Yamaha and Raimundo instruments. Notice as the prices rise that the materials used in construction do change and that a "solid top" is a component of the more expensive models. I do not stock all the models, but we will order one for you with a 50% deposit. The beginners models are sold in packages with lessons included and these programs include the tax. For other guitars, we will offer discounts, but tax is not included.
Of special interest is the fact that guitars are made for small hands, including ¾ size and ½ size. Children may begin guitar lessons at the age of 5 under the supervision of a parent. For further questions, please contact one of our guitar faculty, Brad Kukko or Lynn Ware.
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Ware Academy of Music Market Village (at Steeles and Kennedy) 4350 Steeles Avenue East, Unit F104A (2nd floor) Box 94 Markham, ON L3R 9V4 CANADA Tel: (905) 479-0591 Fax: (416) 494-8377 E-mail: theory@wareacademyofmusic.com Register Now! |
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