Have a birthday, holiday, or special occasion coming up? Want to get your student a gift that will encourage their growth on a musical instrument? Look no further!
Below you will find a number of options that would make great gifts for your student. If you have questions or want further recommendations, reach out to the band teachers or a musician you know!
THINKING OF BUYING AN INSTRUMENT FOR YOUR STUDENT? CHECK WITH A BAND DIRECTOR FIRST!
If you are looking to purchase from an online vendor (eBay, Amazon, marketplace), please be sure you are making a quality investment before you purchase.
With band instruments, the general rule is buy nice or buy twice. An inexpensive instrument might seem like a great buy at the time of purchase, but they can break quickly and repair shops cannot get replacement parts for “off-brand” instruments. Your student will have the most success on a quality instrument that plays well and is easily repaired.
Metronome/Tuner (There are also good apps for these on phones! I recommend "Tonal Energy Tuner")
One of the best gifts you can give your student is private music lessons! There are many great benefits to working one-on-one with a private teacher, even just for a few lessons. Reach out to Mr. Hunter (ahunter@district100.com) or Ms. Roechner (eroechner@district100.com) if you would like help finding a private lesson teacher.
Juno Reeds - cheaper, better for 1st/2nd year
2.5 Strength (6th)
3 Strength (7/8th)
Vandoren Reeds - higher quality, lasts longer, plays easier, but more expensive
2.5 Strength (6th)
3 Strength (7/8th)
Juno Reeds (cheaper, better for 1st/2nd year):
2.5 Strength (6th)
3 Strength (7/8th)
Vandoren Reeds (higher quality, lasts longer, plays easier, but more expensive)
2.5 Strength (6th)
3 Strength (7/8th)
Mouthpieces:
Good for Middle School:
Alto - Yamaha YAC AS 4C
Good for High School:
Alto - Vandoren Optimum AL3
Tenor - Vandoren Optimum TL3
Bari - Vandoren Optimum BL3
Superslick Instrument Valve Oil
If you want some nicer valve oil, I recommend Hetman or J. Meinlschmidt #3 Synethic Piston Valve Oil - a few more dollars but well worth it
Practice Mute
Can be found anywhere online.
For Trumpet/Trombone/Baritone, I recommend CookieMute as a budget-friendly option that doesn't cause too much backpressure/trouble playing
Trumpet Mouthpieces:
Bach 7C (Good for beginners)
Bach 5C (Good for 2nd/3rd Year & beyond)
Bach 3C (Good for High School & beyond)