Often a parent or student will visit our store seeking to buy a new or "better" instrument because the current instrument is unsatisfactory in some ways. In some cases, the student has been playing for some time and is entering the next level of musicianship. In other cases, the student simply does not like the way his or her instrument plays. Helping musicians at all levels find an instrument that is comfortable and enjoyable to play is one of the things we do best. Very often, our clients are surprised to learn that the instrument they seek may be the one already in their hands. While new instruments cost thousands - even tens of thousands - of dollars, a professional upgrade can make almost any quality instrument play more beautifully and with greater ease. These upgrades are not only economical; they are also the smartest way to help students become better musicians when it is not clear how far they are going to go with a particular instrument. In fact, professional musicians often try these types of upgrades on even very high end instruments to give their music a distinctive sound.

Below are some tips by instrument type. If you have any questions or would like to talk to us about a particular instrument or your favorite young musician, call us at 516.883.0043 or email us at info(a)wrightmusic.biz.

Woodwind Instruments
What you can do to make a woodwind sound or play better varies depending on whether it is a single reed or double reed.

Single Reed Instruments (such as saxophone and clarinet)

Mouthpiece - Upgrading to a professional mouthpiece improves the entire response, sound and intonation of the instrument.

Ligature - Fitting a higher quality ligature will change the response of the reed. This enhances the tonal color, and makes the instrument easier to play.

Reed - Better reed brands and strengths will make the instrument easier to play and improve the player's ability to play in certain registers.

Barrel and Bell (clarinets only) - A professional bell or barrel can enhance everything from intonation to sound, as well as the tone of your instrument.

Lip plate and head joint (flutes only) - A hand-cut lip plate can make it much easier to play a flute, as the instrument will conform more exactly to the player's anatomy. In addition, a new head joint can help take some of the effort of out of playing.

Double Reed Instruments (such as oboe, English horn and bassoon) Reed - This is crucial, as a professional reed can determine the complete response of the instrument, making it easier to play.

Bocal (English horn and bassoon only) - Changing to a high-end bocal will improve intonation, sound, and projection of tone.


Brass Instruments
There is only one enhancement to be made to brass instruments, but it makes a tremendous difference, no matter what the instrument:

Mouthpiece - A higher quality mouthpiece will improve intonation and the ability to play in different registers, as well as giving a distinguished tone.


Bowed Instruments
The sound of a violin, viola, cello or bass can be drastically improved in three ways:

Strings - A great quality string is essential for great sound and tonal color of the instrument. Sometimes this means substituting a traditional gut string for a more economical - and usually "tinnier" nylon one (sorry animal lovers).

Bridge - Upgrading your bridge makes your instrument easier to play, and to improve your intonation.

Bows - Bows made of different materials (wood, fiberglass, carbon fiber) weigh differently. Your bow will determine the ease of play and the ability to play delicately or with great power.

Repair
Before seeking to upgrade or enhance any instrument, make sure it is in top working order. We would be glad to examine your instrument for any hidden repair needs and can also show you how to maintain your instrument trouble free. Call us at 516.883.0043 to set an appointment with one of our experts at our Port Washington store or at one of our public appearances.