Below are Frequently Asked Questions we get from families and answers. If you have additional questions, never hesitate to reach out to your child's music teacher!
We have an instrument that has been in our family for many years. Can my child use that? If you have an instrument in your family, we ask that you bring the instrument to your child's music teacher to ensure it is in good working order. Our music educators may request it be sent in for repair.
I saw an instrument on a "non-music" website for really cheap. Can I just buy that? We strongly discourage purchasing instruments from online “non-music store” websites. When it comes to musical instruments, you get what you pay for.
I found an instrument at a pawn shop/ tag sale/ thrift store, can my child use that? We ask that you bring the instrument to your child's music teacher to ensure it is in good working order. Our music educators may request it be sent in for repair.
My small child wants to play the biggest instrument. Is that ok? Of course! String instruments come in various sizes and your child will be measured for the best fit. While band instruments do not come in different sizes, a student's size rarely causes an issue with learning an instrument.
My child wants to play an instrument, but plays a sport. Will that be a problem? Students can absolutely do both! Just like students make time for homework before their sports schedule, students can make time to practice.
We just got my child’s instrument and we found a youtube video that explains how to play the instrument. Can my child use that to get a head start? We strongly discourage students from taking their instrument out of the case prior to their first lesson. While there are videos on youtube, it is best to learn with a professional music educator who can ensure students learn good habits from day 1.
What is the easiest instrument to play? Every instrument has it's challenges. What might be easy for one student, could be challenging for another. Choose the instrument you are most interested in learning!
I saw the concert dates, but my child has practice for their sport. Can they miss the concert? Concerts happen 2-3 times a year. Practices happen multiple times a week. Families are encouraged to have conversations now with their child's coaches to ensure they can attend their concerts.
Who is the best vendor to rent from? Do I have to rent from the ones on your list? Families have a lot of choices in the area when it comes to rentals. Families should research each vendor and select the vendor that works best for you.
When should I register by? All students should register by Thursday, September 12 and rent the instrument by Friday, September 13.
When do lessons begin? Lessons are slated to begin the week of September 16. Your child's music teacher will send additional information home once we have all registrations and schedules created.
My child wants to play, but I am not sure I can rent the instrument due to financial reasons. What are my options? Milford Public Schools believes that any child that wants to play an instrument can! There are options available to ensure your child can learn to play. Please reach out to Amy Perras (aperras@milforded.org) or your child's school principal to discuss.