Students wishing to play Percussion instruments will be expected to learn both unpitched (drums, cymbals, triangle) and pitched (bells, xylophone, marimba) instruments.

Many factors go into selecting the ideal instrument from personal preference to physical characteristics. If a student is comfortable with a particular timbre (characteristic sound) or pitch (high/low sound) of an instrument, s/he may be more likely to experience success in playing that instrument. Physical attributes can sometimes impact a child’s ease to adapt to a specific instrument; i.e.: lip size, space between front teeth. Family influences and prior experiences may also play a factor in instrument selection as well.

To make a more informed decision, families are encouraged to visit the “Be Part of the Band” website to learn more about instruments of the band and utilize the site’s instrument matching tool. 

KUSD beginning band students will be invited to test mouthpieces of various beginning band instruments during selection meetings in early August band classes.

Parent/guardian permission is necessary for students to test the various instruments of the band. All mouthpieces will be disinfected with CDC approved Steri-Spray (active ingredient Quartenary) after every use. You may opt to use the paper permission slip to be sent home in late July or complete the online Instrument Selection Testing Permission Form.