We strongly encourage students to play on personally owned instruments whenever possible. A well-maintained, high-quality instrument allows for faster progress, more consistent tone, and greater pride of ownership.
All personal instruments must have a case clearly labeled with:
Student’s full name
Instrument serial number
For guidance on recommended brands, mouthpieces, and accessories, please visit our Recommended Equipment Guide
Percussion Students
...need the following items at a minimum
Snare Sticks
Black Hand Towel
If you do not yet own an instrument, we recommend renting/purchasing from a reputable music dealer to ensure reliable, school-approved equipment and ongoing maintenance support.
Preferred Local Vendor:
Music & Arts
2340 S. 17th Street, Wilmington, NC
📞 (910) 791-4799
They offer flexible rental plans, quality brands, and direct service to Ashley High School.
A limited number of school-owned instruments (primarily larger or specialty instruments) are available for student use.
These instruments are assigned based on availability and program need and must be properly cared for and returned in excellent condition.
A School Instrument Check-Out Form must be completed and approved before any instrument is issued.
A $75 usage fee per instrument is assessed each semester (not to exceed $150 total per semester).
This fee helps offset the cost of regular maintenance, cleaning, and long-term replacement.
Students are responsible for maintaining their assigned instrument and covering any repair costs resulting from misuse or neglect.