Enrollment for 2025 - 2026 is Closed! Email Mr. Myers to see if spots are available.
STEP THREE | GET YOUR INSTRUMENT
Before getting an instrument, it is important that you have already enrolled your child in class, and received your selection and sizing confirmation.
This will ensure your child is put into a lesson group, and that have the information to get the correct instrument, in the correct size where applicable.
There are four ways to get an instrument:
Renting through Music and Arts.
Using an instrument you already have, or that a family member, friend, or community member is loaning you.
Requesting a school-owned instrument by emailing me at jmyers@ccps.org
Purchasing an instrument (NOT recommended for Year One Students).
IMPORTANT! AVOID PURCHASING INSTRUMENTS FROM BIG BOX RETAILERS. Read the section on avoiding scams.
There is detailed information below on each of these four plans.
The Rental Option (Recommended)
Rentals can be done in the store or online at www.musicarts.com/rentals.
Select the "Fall Delivery" Option. Instruments are delivered to the school in late August. That gives me time to set them up, and have them ready for the first lesson.
Your payment today secures the instrument for the Two Month Trial Period, which runs from September 11th until November 11th.
Beginning November 11th, you will be billed the monthly rate.
Music & Arts uses only approved instrument brands, and instruments come with the correct accessories.
Music & Arts will swap out violin, viola, cello, and bass instruments for larger sizes as your child grows, without losing rental credit.
There is optional loss/damage insurance, which I do recommend. Music and Arts will repair or replaced damaged instruments. If your instrument is ever damaged, Music and Arts will pick the broken instrument up at school, provide a loaner during repair, and return the instrument to school once your repairs are complete.
Already Have an Instrument in the House? GREAT!
Many of you may have family instruments floating around from siblings or extended family members. If the instrument in question has been sitting around for quite some time, it may need to be serviced before it is playable again. You will also need to be sure to purchase any additional accessories or books your child may need. Here are a few repairman in the area who are qualified to service your instrument. Click the picture for a link to their website, or use the contact information provided.
Bel Air, MD (410)-569-3500
Middletown, DE (302)-376-6700
Wilmington, DE (302)-633-0600
School-Owned Instruments for Families in Need
The cost of renting an instrument can present a financial obstacle for some families. Growing up, I got my start on a school-owned saxophone I played until high school. We have a limited inventory of school-owned instruments available. If you are requesting an instrument, priority will be given for your child's first choice instrument. If we run out, I will work to get your child their second choice.
Requests for a school-owned instrument should be emailed to me directly at jmyers@ccps.org. The sooner you request an instrument, the more likely one will be available.
Instrument Purchase
Purchasing an instrument outright is recommened only when your child has shown they are committed to learning their instrument. The Two Month rental period is a great way to see if they're going to stick with it for the long term. If they are committed, purchasing make become a more cost effective option. The purchase of a new or used instrument is an attractive option for some families. It is possible to save money in the long run compared to rental prices. Whether you are seeking to purchase for your year one student, or upgrading for middle school, check out my Instrument Buying Guide.