[net.music.synth] Request for advice on Student Synthesizer

dmt@mtgzz.UUCP (d.m.tutelman) (05/19/85)

My 14-year-old son wants a synthesizer, and I am looking for advice.
He currently plays piano and clarinet, but has never played an elec-
tronic instrument.

   -	What should I look for in a synthesizer?  What should a
	first synthesizer cost?

   -	Is there such a thing as a "student" synthesizer, designed
	for beginners? Should I get him one?

   -	Is it possible/advisable to get an "inexpensive" synthesizer
	to start, and upgrade if he takes it seriously.  Or would
	the quality of the inexpensive one ruin the pleasure?  Also,
	how different is playing technique from one to another?
	(I know that pianos differ greatly in sound, but they all
	play pretty much alike if they work at all.  Same for
	clarinets, 5-string banjos, etc.  Is this true of synthesizers?)

   -	What sort of lessons, instruction, or self-training should he take?

In giving me advice, please bear in mind that I don't know synthesizer jargon,
though I have played piano for years, play some banjo and clarinet, and
know electronics pretty well.

Please EMail advice to ihnp4!mtgzz!dmt , and I'll summarize to the net.
Thanks in advance!

			Dave Tutelman - AT&TIS - Holmdel