Finding an Instrument

Welcome to Beginning Band & Beginning Strings!

We want every student interested in band or orchestra to have the absolute best opportunity to succeed. Your child’s success will be either aided or hindered by the quality and function of their instrument. Please read this handout and feel free to contact us if you have questions.

Beginning Band >> Mr. Hansen (email: chansen@ecsdnv.net / phone: 775-777-1688)

Beginning Strings >> Mrs. Hansen (email: jhansen@ecsdnv.net / phone: 775-777-1688)

Which Instrument?

Students are encouraged to select an instrument that interests them with the realization that their preference may change once they begin learning to play the instrument. We have discussed and demonstrated instruments in class to help. The following instruments are possible for each class.

Beginning Band >> flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, french horn, trombone, baritone, percussion.

IMPORTANT! Students who want to study PERCUSSION must have a bell kit for class. This package comes with a set of bells, a practice pad, mallets, sticks, and a stand.

Beginning Strings >> violin, viola, cello

IMPORTANT! String instruments must be sized to the student. Many will not be able to play a full-size instrument at first.

Method Book Information

Each student will need a copy of the the method book that will be used in class. There is a specific book for each instrument. An order form will be provided to your student if it will need to be ordered separately from the student’s instrument. If you purchase or rent an instrument from a music dealer and they include a method book as part of the purchase or rental agreement, please request the following book:

Beginning Band >> Essential Elements Interactive for Band, Book 1

Beginning Strings >> Essential Elements Interactive for Strings, Book 1

How to Acquire an Instrument

OPTION 1 - School-Owned Instrument Rental

The Spring Creek secondary music program has some instruments available for rental.  To receive information about using a school instrument, please return this form provided to your student in class.

OPTION 2 - Borrowing or Purchasing from a Private Party

There are many instruments available from private individuals. While individuals will often sell instruments at a lower price than a retail store, there is no guarantee that the instrument is playable. Expect that the less you pay for the instrument, the more you will need to pay in repairs and maintenance to keep it in playing condition. You will need to make sure the instrument is in proper playing condition as these types of instruments have usually sat for awhile. Consider contacting a music dealer (see Rent-to-own below) for help. A list of possible music instrument repair locations is attached.

OPTION 3 - Rent-to-Own or Purchase from Music Dealer

• Many music stores offer rent-to-own programs. Costs differ from store to store. Many rent-to-own programs will often include free products or services such as maintenance kits and free repairs. Early buy-out options are sometimes available. If the instrument is returned at any time, the contract is usually discontinued. 

  • See this flyer for information about the Instrument Rental Night on September 4, 2025 sponsored by Dunkley Music from Twin Falls, ID.

• When purchasing new, you are assured of obtaining the brand you wish, in mint condition. Although it costs more up front to buy new, there will be fewer mechanical problems reducing any factors that might limit progress in learning to play. Some retail stores also sell used instruments. When purchasing a used instrument, ensure that it has been properly maintained, repaired, and sterilized before use. Possible music dealers include:

  • Summerhays Music Murray, 5420 S. Green Street Murray, UT -- (801) 268-4446 -- Website

  • Dunkley Music, 1160 Blue Lakes Blvd. N., Twin Falls, ID -- (208) 734-2201 -- Website

  • Absolute Music, 8175 So. Virginia Street, Suite 600, Reno, NV, -- (775) 852-2637 -- Website

  • Kessler and Sons Music, 3047 E. Charleston Blvd, Las Vegas, NV, -- (702) 385-2263 -- Website 

  • Taylor Music, Online -- 1-800-872-2263 -- Website

  • Sweetwater Music, Online -- 1-888-890-3365 -- Website

OPTION 4 - Internet Purchase from Private Seller (EBAY)

This is the most risky option. There are very few, if anyway, instruments listed at a highly discount price that should be purchased. Additionally, any instruments of a reputable brand listed on EBAY usually need repair.