In the spring of 4th grade, the band staff visited students during the school day to introduce them to various instruments. During this session, students had the opportunity to try out different instruments and share their first, second, and third choices. At the same time, our staff evaluated each studentās ability to play those instruments.
Based on the students' preferences and our evaluations, the band director will make a recommendation for which instrument each student should play. Recommendations are based on several factors, including:
Ability to comfortably hold and handle the instrument
Ease of producing the first sound
Mouth and dental structure
Whether the student already owns the instrument
Once a final decision is made, Mr. Tuite will send out a communication confirming your childās instrument assignment.
Some large or costly instruments are provided by the school in limited quantities:
Tuba
Baritone
Trombone
French Horn
Oboe
Availability is limited and will be assigned based on need and evaluation.
Most students will need to rent or purchase an instrument through a reputable local music store. (See our recommended retailer list below.)
Instruments typically requiring rental/purchase:
Flute
Clarinet
Alto Saxophone
Trumpet
Trombone
Students interested in percussion (drums) are required to take private lessons, and placement is limited. Please refer to the āAll About Percussionā section for full details.
If you do not already own an instrument, you must secure one by Friday, September 12, 2025, so your child is ready to begin playing.
After the first day of school, your childās music class schedule is set for the yearāstudents may not change music classes after this point.
Local music retailers: These are stores that are close toĀ Boardman and have a good working relationship with our band department.Ā They are not the only music stores in the area.Ā Please feel free to explore serviece and prices on instruments where ever you see fit.