FAQ's

Does it cost money to be in band and strings? 

You do not pay for classes! The only thing you are responsible for is acquiring an instrument. If you want to play an instrument, it is possible! We don't want money to be the reason you choose not to play!

When do I need an instrument? 

We will start using instruments in August! (You don't need an instrument until band and strings classes start in August! We recommend that you wait to get your instrument until we can help you, unless you are taking private lessons!) 

Can I buy an instrument online? 

NO! Buying instruments online is very risky. Unless you know exactly what brands, what kinds of repairs will be needed, the exact materials instruments are made out of, and have an accurate appraisal, you could end up with a cheap, unusable instrument. Beware of instruments that are cheaply made, will break, and will be hard to repair. Purple trumpets, or blue violins are not good instruments to learn how to play! Some music stores allow you to rent instruments online, that is fine!

Can you be in both band and strings or do you have to choose one? 

You can definitely be in both! In fact, if you are having trouble deciding which instrument to choose between band and strings, we recommend you do both in 5th grade. Usually students will know after 5th grade which instrument they prefer. It is much easier to learn both from the beginning and then choose your favorite than to start a new instrument later. We do have several students who play in both band and strings all the way through high school! The tricky part about playing two instruments is acquiring both instruments. 

When do band and strings classes meet? 

Band and Strings classes meet twice a week during the school day at your school! 

How many performances or evening activities are there? 

In 5th grade, there are 3 evening performances. Dates are passed out at the beginning of the year! All other classes and activities are during the school day! 

Where do I get an instrument? 

• It is BEST to rent an instrument from a local music store. Local music stores have all the equipment you will need for class, as well as have the ability to repair your instrument. When you rent an instrument, all the money you pay to rent goes toward the purchase of that instrument. Also, repair fees are usually built in to the rental cost. Usually, after about 3-4 years of renting, you own that instrument. 

• SMSD has a limited amount of instruments you can rent from the district. Rentals are $60 for the year, and you return the instrument to school when the school year is over. You are responsible to pay for any repairs needed to the instrument while it is in your care. Contact your band/strings teacher to apply for a SMSD Rental Instrument.

• There are several programs that help students get instruments that demonstrate financial need. We want everyone to be able to participate in band and strings, and if you need help getting an instrument, email your band or strings teacher!

Click on the links above to see recommended brands of instruments and the complete list of things you should look for when comparing instrument rentals. There is also a list of local music stores where you can start your search! 

What other materials do I need for class? 

The only things that you'll need to provide are you instrument maintenance kit and your method book! These items can be purchased at a local music store and, unlike instruments, they can also be purchased online. See the Recommended instrument lists linked at the top of this page.