• Beneath is the recommended equipment (instrument, mouthpieces, reeds, accessories) for each instrument.

• Please email your lesson teacher with questions.  

• This equipment is available at Music & Arts Centers and can also be ordered online at musicarts.com, amazon.com, etc.

Single Reed Advice (clarinet, saxophone)

Please consult with your child before buying reeds - the strength (number) and brand make a big difference!  I advise not purchasing more than 10 reeds at a time because students may "outgrow" them quickly.  Most students can get by on 2 reeds per month (20 reeds per school year), but it can vary. 

Double Reed Advice (oboe, bassoon)

Please consult with your child before buying reeds - the strength (thickness) and brand make a big difference!  I advise not purchasing more than 3-4 reeds at a time because students may "outgrow" them quickly.  Most reeds will last 1-2 months if properly cared for.  Most students will use 6-8 reeds per year, but it can vary.  

Hand-me-down and Bargain Instrument Advice

Hand-me-down saxophones, clarinets, and flutes that are older than 10-15 years often require so much repair work that a new or rental instrument would be less expensive and will play better.  Hand-me-down trumpets and trombones will usually work fine after a $100 trip to the repair shop.  I highly recommend against inexpensive "bargain" instruments available online or through big box stores.  They break very easily and play poorly.  Such an instrument will hold a student back significantly and cause a lot of frustration.  

"Step-Up" Instrument Advice

The most common time parents purchase a "step-up" instrument is when their child enters high school.  However, students can benefit from a step-up instrument in middle school if they are performing at an advanced level or auditioning for County/Region Bands.  Please consult with me or a private lesson teacher first.  A step-up mouthpiece can be a less expensive alternative and can make a big difference in sound quality.