Instrument Accessories
Here is a list of items that I recommend for parents to consider purchasing. Some items are required for your band student to be able to play (reeds and valve oil) and others would be extra items.
If you are looking for gift ideas for your band student, here is a perfect list to select from.
All Band students would benefit from the following items:
Metronome or Metronome App - this is a device that "clicks" or "beeps" to a steady beat that is adjustable to various speeds. It is excellent for practicing as it forces you to play in perfect tempo.
Tuner or Tuner App - This is a device that shows how perfect your pitch is on any note. Buy keeping the needle in the center of the screen, you know that your pitch is perfect for that note.
Extra Music for their instrument - many students would love to have a book of popular melodies just for their instruments. For example, Disney Melodies for Clarinet. or Movie favorites for trumpet, etc.
Clarinet Players
A box of reeds - Reeds are needed for the instrument to produce a sound. I recommend the following Brand and strength: Vandoren Bb Clarinet Reeds Strength 2.5 (sometimes written as 2 1/2)
Cork Grease - this usually comes in a tube like chapstick. Use it to put on the cork of the clarinet where it goes together to make it easier for the student to push the parts together. Most instruments come with this.
Clarinet Swab - This is a small cloth with a string which enables the player to swab out the inside of the clarinet after playing to maintain cleanliness of the instrument.
Alto Saxophone Players
A box of reeds - reeds are needed for the instrument to produce a sound. I recomment the following brand and strength:
Vandoren Alto Saxophone Reeds Strength 2.5 (sometimes written as 2 1/2)
Trumpet Players
Valve Oil - necessary to keep the valves moving well. There are various brands that all work just fine.
Trombone Players
Slide Oil - This is oil to put on the slide so it moves smoothly. Most instruments come with it but you may run out.