Welcome to the 2025-26 School Year!

Required Supplies

REQUIRED DAILY SUPPLIES

1. Director approved instrument and bow (see "Getting an instrument" below)

2. Black Binder (provided)

3. Violin and Viola - shoulder rest: Kun or Everest are recommended brands. Be sure to order the appropriate one for your instrument.

4. Cello/bass - rock stop: Strap types are often more reliable than "donut" types.

5. Pencil (at your stand each day)

6. Rosin

7. Soft cloth for cleaning

8. Copy of your Method Book:

- Overture & Philharmonic: Essential Elements for Strings Book 1
- Sinfonia & Chamber: Habits of a successful Middle Level String Musician, Expressive Techniques for Orchestra

10. Music stand for at-home practice (optional, but recommended)

Getting an instrument:

If possible, we recommend renting your own instrument. Dallas Strings is our preferred vendor, as they work with the district and deliver instruments and supply kits directly to the schools before the first day of classes, as well as being very responsive when repairs are needed. You may also inquire with the Luthier Shop in Aubrey, or Brook Mays. Any of the stores will be able to help you in choosing the best size for your child, or we can size you at school.

If you are unable to rent with one of those vendors, we have a limited supply of district-owned instruments that can be rented with a yearly fee of $125 (or $50 with documentation of reduced lunch status / $25 with documentation of free lunch status). We will begin sizing students for instruments in the first days and weeks of school, so this may cause a delay in getting your child’s instrument to them.

Other Supplies:

These supplies may be included in a rental kit through a vendor above, or can be purchased a la carte on your own. Below are a few sources if you would like to shop on your own. If you are planning on using a school-owned instrument, we encourage you to purchase whatever supplies you are able in order to foster a sense of ownership and personal responsibility for your child.

VIOLIN

Shoulder rest (Amazon: ½ size, ¾ size, 4/4 size / Shar Music ½ size, ¾ size, 4/4 size)