Enrollment for 2025 - 2026 is Closed! Email Mr. Myers to see if spots are available.
STEP TWO | CHOOSE AN INSTRUMENT AND GET SIZED
INSTRUMENT SELECTION PROCESS
Thanks for completing the first step, ENROLLING your child in band or orchestra. When you enrolled, you were asked to pick two different instruments.
This gives me the information I need to meet with your child to choose which of those two instruments they will be playing.
When I meet with your child, we will pick an instrument based upon the following (in no particular order):
Student interest.
Physical characteristics such as arm length, upper body strength, and embouchure.
Ensemble balance, that is, making sure that we have all instruments represented in the band and orchestra. We need "players at every position".
Instrument accessiblity. This includes questions such as; "Does the family already own an instrument" or "If requesting a school-owned instrument, which ones are available?"
Once we have chosen your child's instrument, you'll receive a confirmation email with instructions on how to Get An Instrument.
ORCHESTRA STUDENT SIZING GUIDE (Violin, Viola, Cello, Bass)
The Violin, Viola, Cello, and Bass come in many different sizes. If your child is playing one of these instruments, they will need to be measured. This will ensure that your child can play their instrument comfortably, and with correct technique. This will result in more comfortable practice, and faster progress.
The BEST way for children to be fitted for orchestra is one on one with me, using actual instruments. At school, I have instruments in each size I can use to find the best fit.
If you have signed up in the summer months, when I'm not available to do an in-person fitting, you can get a good idea of which size your child needs using the videos below.
Here is some advice when fitting your own child:
Don't be afraid. If you happen to wind up with the wrong size, Music & Arts will simply do an exchange. This is one of the many reasons that renting makes sense for year one.
Err on the side of being too small. If your child's measurements are on the line, go small. For example, if a child's measurements put them between a 1/2 and a 3/4, choose 1/2.
I have listed the most common sizes below the video. If for some reason your child is measuring outside those ranges, you may want to contact me. For example, if your 9 year old child is measuring up for a 16" viola, or a full sized (4/4) cello or bass...something has gone wrong.
Don't be afraid. If you happen to wind up with the wrong size, Music & Arts will simply do an exchange.
Violin Fitting
Most Common Year One Sizes:
1/2, 3/4
Viola Fitting
Most Common Year One Sizes:
12", 13"
Cello Fitting
Most Common Year One Sizes:
1/4, 1/2
Bass Fitting
Most Common Year One Size:
1/4