Brass instruments are incredibly eye-catching – they’re shiny, they can be very loud (but also, in the right hands, very soft!) and some of them are pretty big. The phrase “bold as brass” does not exist for nothing, but how to choose the right brass instrument can be a more complex problem.
Brass instruments can sometimes be less popular than string or woodwind instruments like the flute or violin – but they don’t need to be! A set of wheels or a smaller version can make them portable, they’re some of the most versatile instruments, and their slightly lesser popularity can be an attraction in itself for someone looking for something a bit different. Best of all, all brass instruments except trumpet are endangered species instruments – meaning there are often deals on school lessons or instrument purchase, and lots of playing opportunities.
This article looks at how you might decide, gives you some information about each instrument in the brass family, and tells you what to do if you’re still undecided at the end of it all!