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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]My rising 5th grader is having a hard time choosing between trumpet and saxophone for beginning band. The band teacher did a demonstration, but the students didn't get an opportunity to try the instruments themselves, which has made the decision more difficult. My child is music-oriented. I've encouraged them to pick one instrument now and remind them that switching next year is always an option. However, they're also the type of child who can become discouraged if something feels especially difficult at the beginning. I'd love to hear from parents, students, or band directors who have experience with either instrument.

A few questions:

• What are the pros and cons of trumpet versus saxophone for a beginner?
• Are there practical considerations (cost, maintenance, carrying the instrument, finding teachers, etc.) that you wish you had known when your child started?
• Are there more opportunities for one instrument than the other in school bands, jazz band, marching band, etc. and is one instrument generally in higher demand than the other for school ensembles?
• Do private lessons become necessary for students who want to advance, audition for honor bands, or continue through high school? If so, at what stage did lessons become worthwhile?
• Looking back, is there anything you would do differently when helping your child choose an instrument?

I'd appreciate any advice, lessons learned, or things you wish someone had told you before your child started band!
[/quote]

I'm a professional classical musician.
Trumpet is a harder start, but every musical instrument has its challenges. If your child has a good ear for matching pitch, trumpet becomes a bit easier.
Trumpet and saxophone are pretty similar in terms of size/transport. Woodwinds (including saxophones) take a little more maintenance because of the keys/pads.
Both trumpet and saxophone are pretty popular so no benefit in terms of need from a band director's point of view. They can both do marching band and jazz band. No saxophone in orchestra for the most part. 
If your child is serious about music, they should start private lessons the 2nd or 3rd year of playing (by middle school). Look for someone in one of the military bands - not just someone at a music store.

In the long run, it's best to have your child pick for themselves! [/quote]

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