How to Get an Instrument

We’re so excited you’ve chosen to support your child’s interest in beginning band! In order for your child to start band class along with their peers at school this fall, you will need to acquire a student level instrument from our preferred brands list as soon as possible.

Please note: Due to extreme pitch problems, lack of durability and repair policies of our local music stores concerning generic/off-brand instruments, please make sure you acquire an instrument from our preferred brands list below. A variety of non-music stores and/or websites offer substandard quality instruments, but the pitch problems and lack of repair options can jeopardize your child’s band experience. When you rent/purchase a quality instrument for your child–that can be repaired if needed—you are giving them the best chance for success. Instruments do not need to be new, used instruments are perfectly acceptable.

Preferred Instrument Brands

Flute: Armstrong, Yamaha, Gemeinhardt, Pearl, Trevor James, Bundy, Selmer, Artley, Di Zhao

Clarinet: Yamaha, Selmer, Jupiter, Armstrong, Buffet, Bundy, LeBlanc, Noblet

Alto Sax: Selmer, Yamaha, Jupiter, Buffet, Bundy, Cannonball, Antigua

Cornet (preferred over trumpets): Bach, Yamaha, Selmer, Conn, Besson

Trombone: Yamaha, Jupiter, Getzen, Blessing, Bach, Selmer, Conn, King, Olds, Antoine Courtois, Holton

Percussion: Korogi or Ludwig xylophone kit and practice pad

French Horn, Baritone, and Tuba players will rent their instruments from the school.

FAQs about getting a band instrument

Are there school instruments to borrow?

The Linn-Mar School District has a limited number of school owned band instruments available for student loan.  If your family qualifies for free and/or reduced lunch, there are instruments available through the “Music Connects” program (Flute, Clarinet, Cornet, and Trombone). Please CLICK HERE to fill out the online application form. Every student in the Linn-Mar Community School District has the opportunity to play an instrument regardless of their financial situation. If you do not qualify for the Music Connects program, but need assistance with anything, please contact your intermediate school band director, and we will be happy to help in any way we can.

Students selecting large/specialty instruments (French horn, baritone, and tuba) will be able to rent an instrument through the school district. The rental fee for a school-owned instrument is $60. This fee is waived if the student qualifies for Music Connects.

Can I use an old family-owned instrument?

Often times it is an advantage to use an old family-owned instrument for the initial year(s) of band experience. We prefer that these instruments are one of our recommended brands and we suggest that you take the instrument to a local music store to make sure it is in good working condition. There is nothing more frustrating for a beginner than trying to progress on an instrument that does not work properly.

Can I buy an instrument from a newspaper ad, garage sale or online auction?

Sometimes you can find good buys from these sources. However, we urge you to use great caution in these kinds of purchases. Many “off-brand” or “problematic” instruments are sold this way.  Your school band teacher can help you with questions you have about specific instruments.

Nothing is more frustrating for your child than trying to learn how to play an instrument that doesn’t work properly or play in tune. Please refer to our list of preferred instrument brands. All brands listed can be serviced by our local music store. Be sure have the instrument checked over and put into good playing condition before the first day of band lessons.

Where can we rent or purchase an instrument & supplies?

A list of trusted music stores who sell these preferred brands are listed below. Most music stores offer instrument payment plans of some kind. 

West Music Cedar Rapids/Marion:

For all your music needs: woodwind, brass, or percussion. 

Woodwind & Brasswind:

One of the largest Midwest music retailers.

Taylor Music:

Another instrument and supply resource located in South Dakota.

Where can I get an instrument repaired or have it put in good playing condition?

Barnard Instrument Repair

West Music Cedar Rapids/Marion: