Used Instruments Get a Replay With Student Musicians

Suppose you have an old trombone that’s been collecting dust since you graduated from high school. What about that violin you bought for your daughter who now says she wants to be a ballerina?

You know you’re not going to use the instruments any time soon, but you don’t want to throw them out either.

Don’t despair.

Big Valley Music in Northridge has launched a band instrument drive in an effort to get quality woodwind, brass and string instruments into the hands of young musicians at a reasonable price, said store owner Carole Ozanian.

Parents of student musicians often pay $22 to $60 per month to rent a new trumpet, Ozanian said. Purchasing the instrument, she said, could cost up to $600.

Used instruments are far more affordable, Ozanian said, renting for $15 to $19 per month and selling for about $300.

The number of students participating in school bands and orchestras has increased in recent years, said Ozanian, who has worked with elementary, secondary and college music departments for more than 20 years.

“This is an effort to meet the flood of demands for lower-priced, quality horns,” she said.

The music store will accept instruments as a charitable donation, Ozanian said, or purchase instruments from owners at a nominal fee.

The instruments will be restored by on-site technicians and will be rented or sold to aspiring musicians.