Learning an instrument can be an enjoyable, rewarding experience for a child.  Instruction on an instrument develops intellectual skills that will help your child in all areas of their academic career.  Like most rewarding things in life, learning a musical instrument requires some individual effort.  Students will need to practice twenty - thirty minutes, five days a week to progress on any instrument.  This amount will increase as the student progresses through the program.  Acceptance into the beginning band will be based on the effort demonstrated and skill achieved, Students who are not committed to a strong effort should carefully consider whether they have the time and desire to play an instrument.  Please have this very important conversation with your child and emphasize the rewards, effort and commitment to this life choice.

All students will need the following equipment and materials prior to their first lesson.  For the development of good posture and breath support, the purchased of a music stand for each child’s home practice is essential.

WOODWIND INSTRUMENTS

Flute - Standard of Excellence Lesson Book 1,  Music Stand

Clarinet  - Standard of Excellence  Lesson Book 1, Music Stand, Reeds size 2 ½ (at least 3 to start)

Alto Saxophone- Standard of Excellence  Lesson Book 1, Music Stand, Reeds size 2 ½ (at least 3 to start)

BRASS INSTRUMENTS

Trumpet - Standard of Excellence  Lesson Book 1, Valve oil, music stand

Trombone -Standard of Excellence  Lesson Book 1, slide oil, music stand

Baritone -Standard of Excellence  Lesson Book 1, Valve oil, music stand

PERCUSSION
Percussion - Bell kit, Vic Firth SD1 general sticks, Standard of Excellence AND Breeze Easy Book 1