Let me tell you about my current buying experience with Woodwind and Brasswind.

Two days ago I placed an online order for an instrument and some accessories. It wasn`t a big order, a little over $1,000.00, but that`s alot to me. I called today to inquire as to when the order would arrive and was informed that they are in the process of "verifying" my order. So far, this process has taken two days. I asked when they thought that my order would ship and I was informed that it could take another 72 hours to "verify" my order. Several time I asked what they ment by "verifying" my order and they would not, or could not, explain it to me.

When I asked if there was a way to speed up the process, I was informed that if I paid for expedited Fed Ex shipping they could get my order out sooner. For the life of me, I can`t figure out the relationship between expensive shipping and the internal operations of Woodwind and Brasswind. But apparently, if I`m willing to pay extra to Fed Ex, Woodwind and Brasswind will provide me with competent service.

As a follow-up to my phone call, I emailed customer service through their website. When I clicked "send" at the end of the email form a message told me that they would email me back "soon." As of yet, I have received no response. So far I have experienced extremely lousy customer service. But if they respond, I`ll make sure that I post it.

Next time I`ll buy from Musician`s Friend.

4 days and counting. my order still has not shipped.

Still has not shipped yet. The order has been approved for two day. I wonder if anyone actually works in their warehouse.

It finally shipped. Now its in Fed Ex`s hands. Not exactly speedy service.