How To Choose An Instrument
There isn't a right way to choose but some of the tips may help:
Listen to many recordings of the instrument playing lots of different styles of music.
Watch videos of professionals and students playing these instruments.
Look at images of the instruments in the case. Think about what it may be like to carry it to and from school.
Contact family or friends who may have previous experience. Ask about their favorite (and maybe not so favorite) experiences while playing.
Where To Get An Instrument
Polaris has many instruments available for students to borrow. There is a one-time fee of $50 to offset cleaning and wear and tear. Often, there are enough instruments for students to play their first choice. However, during registration students are asked to make a second choice as well. If there is an overwhelming interest in a specific instrument the process is as follows: Students who qualify for free or reduced lunch have first priority, then all remaining students are entered into a lottery for the other instruments.
Students can also rent or buy their own and bring it to band. When renting or buying an instrument please do so from a music store (local ones are listed on the resource page). The instruments found at other retail stores (Target, Walmart, online sites…) often need repairs before a single note is played. They do not offer service or warranties for these instruments either. Amazon does sell instruments from reputable companies and offers a protection plan. Please email Mrs. Kielmeyer a link before purchasing to check quality. Ebay and Craigslist can be good sources for instruments, but proceed with caution. Arrange the sale in a public place and ask that the seller play the instrument or demonstrate its quality in some way. Some music stores will help with this process as well. Call ahead to arrange for the service department to check it out or bring the instrument to band and Mrs. Kielmeyer will look over it.
Other Supplies
These vary by instrument. If you do not have these items, they may be purchased through either the music stores or Mrs Kielmeyer.
Flute: Cleaning rod, cotton cloth (part of an old t-shirt works fine)
Oboe: Feather cleaner or silk swab, 2 reeds
Clarinet: At least 2 reeds (Mitchell Lurie or Van Doren brand), a reed guard, cork grease and cleaning swab. I have reeds available for purchase here for $2.00 each (cash only).
Alto Sax: At least 2 reeds (Hemke or Van Doren) reed guard, cork grease and cleaning swab. I have reeds available for purchase here for $2.50 each (cash only).
Trumpets: Valve oil, tuning slide grease. I have oil here for purchase at $5.00/bottle (cash only)
Trombones: Slide oil or tuning slide grease and small spray bottle for water (optional, you can get one at Target, Wal-Mart etc.) I have oil here for purchase at $5.00/bottle (cash only).
Music Book
Included with band tuition. Advanced Band students should have their Essential Elements book from last year.