Q: Where do I get an instrument, book, and supplies?
A: We strongly recommend that you rent an instrument for a while before purchasing. At this age, most students are not ready for a full-size string instrument and they may discover after playing for a while that another instrument might work better for them. It is also a good idea to make sure that band or orchestra is something that your child wants to stick with before making an expensive purchase. Here are local businesses that rent instruments and sell music supplies: please reach out if you would like to purchase an instrument, we have recommendations so your student doesn't struggle in class.
Hammond Ashley Violins--Issaquah (Orchestra)
Moore Brothers Music--Sammamish (Band and Orchestra)
Henry Bischofberger Violins--Kirkland (Orchestra)
Kennelly Keys--Bellevue (Band and Orchestra)
Music & Arts--Redmond/Issaquah (Band and Orchestra)
Q: It is against state law to take large instruments (Cello, Bass, Euphonium, etc.) on the bus. How do I get an instrument to/from class?
A: Cello, Bass, and Euphonium players do not need to transport their instrument to/from class. We have school instruments that they may use during class for a yearly maintenance fee is made out to the school in which. You will still need an instrument for use at home. All other instruments may be transported on the bus. If you prefer to drive your child's instrument to and from rehearsal that is fine too!
Q: I'm late in registering my child. Is there still room in the class?
A: Yes! We take any 4th or 5th grade student that would like to play.
Q: What supplies does my child need?
A: Each child needs
An instrument and the appropriate maintenance equipment
A music book for their instrument:
Orchestra: Measures of Success, Book 1 (for your instrument)
Band: Tradition of Excellence, Book 1 and Yamaha Band Ensembles, Book 1
A Pencil
A Music Stand
Maintenance equipment depends on the instrument you play.
Violin/Viola players need a shoulder rest of appropriate size for their instrument.
Cello players need a rock stop or endpin anchor and rosin for their bow
Bass Basses need Bass rosin and a rock stop or endpin anchor
Flute players need a cleaning rod and a cleaning cloth (a piece cut out of an old t-shirt works great).
Clarinet players need #2 B-flat Clarinet Reeds, a swab, and cork grease.
Trumpet players need valve oil and slide grease.
Trombone players need slide grease, a small spray bottle for water, and either slide cream or slide oil . I prefer slide cream, but both get the job done!
Euphonium/Baritone players need valve oil and slide grease.
Percussionists should rent a percussion kit which includes a bell set and either a practice pad or a snare drum. They also need a pair of drumsticks ( I recommend Vic Firth SD-1) and a pair of yarn mallets to use on the school instruments. Often the percussion kit comes with a pair of hard mallets to use on their bell set.