A beginning instrument usually ranges from $750-$1500 in cost for a new quality instrument. Please do not purchase instruments from eBay, Amazon, or Costco, as most of these instruments will break within months. You get what you pay for when it comes to musical instruments. Beginning instruments are usually fine to use up till 7th grade or so. Students who purchase one of these will usually upgrade to an advanced instrument at that time and skip the Intermediate-level instrument.

Intermediate instruments are a good choice if you only want to buy 1 instrument to save money in the long run. This will get you something very good for elementary music, and something that will see you through the end of high school. The downside is that you may be less competitive for all state ensembles and honor bands. Expected price range $1500-$2500.

These are instruments often used by professional musicians just short of bespoke gold engraved instruments. Prices range from $4000-$8000 depending on the instrument and brand. These instruments are suitable for all honor ensembles, high school, college, and beyond. The downside is that you do not want to expose these instruments to the weather. For marching band, you will want to keep your cheaper beginning instrument.