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Choosing an instrument is not an event....it is a process.
Choosing an instrument is not an event....it is a process.
Choosing an instrument as a beginner has large implications on the future success of the Tri County High School Band. You can't field a football team with all quarterbacks, you can't play volleyball with six setters, and you can't perform the National Anthem with only drummers.
Balanced Instrumentation
Balanced Instrumentation
Creating a balanced instrumentation is one of the biggest goals for Mr. Morrissey as he guides the students when choosing an instrument. However many students play on an instrument in 6th grade gets multiplied by 4 in the high school band. So if you have 3 saxophones in the 6th grade, you'll have 12 in the high school band, which is way too many.
No musical instrument is easier to play than another - they all have different challenges. There are many considerations in choosing an instrument, from musical aptitude to physical characteristics to the desire of the child.
The decision concerning which student should play which instrument depends on a few factors:
The physical suitability of the student for the specific instrument. (Structure of Mouth and teeth, lip size, hand size, etc.)
The student’s natural abilities in pitch and rhythm recognition determined by a Music Aptitude Test.
The balanced instrumentation of the band as a whole. A band is made up of many different instruments, and not everyone can play the same thing.
The wishes of the student and their family.
Instrument Purchase/Rental Options
Instrument Purchase/Rental Options
What to Get
What to Get
The students at Tri County have all gone through a music aptitude test and instrument fittings on all the instruments to help them decide which is right for them.
New Instruments
New Instruments
Purchasing a new instrument from a music store is the best and most popular option for obtaining a new instrument. Dietze Music Company and Schmitt's Music sell instruments on a “rent-to-own” basis to beginning students.
I love Amazon, but NO AMAZON for instruments!!!!!!
Representatives from each store visit Tri County weekly.
This is how I get instruments for my own children!
Used Instruments
Used Instruments
The purchase of a used instrument is usually the least expensive option but can also be risky. Used instruments are always in need of repair or at least a service.
Used instruments are still a viable option when looking for instruments. Friends, relatives, garage sales, newspaper ads, craigslist, ebay, and pawn shops are all common sources for used instruments.
Use your own discretion when using these options.
School Owned Instruments
School Owned Instruments
The school will provide larger instruments such as tuba, baritone, and french horn.
There are a very few circumstances that will allow a child to rent a school owned horn like a flute, clarinet, trumpet, or trombone at a minimal cost to you.
However, with this option the instrument choices are extremely limited.
Where to Get it
Where to Get it
Local Music Stores:
Local Music Stores:
These no pressure contracts are month-to-month and start as low as $25 per month.
Online Music Stores:
Online Music Stores:
If you don’t wish to go with a local music store, here are a few online dealers that I also recommend. Stay away from Amazon! Lot's of counterfeit instruments!
Buying from a reputable dealer is important! Not only will they stand behind the products they sell, they will be unable to repair instruments of questionable quality.
Buying from a reputable dealer is important! Not only will they stand behind the products they sell, they will be unable to repair instruments of questionable quality.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Do I need prior musical experience to be in band?
No. You will learn everything you need to know for band in band class. Any prior musical experience will be helpful, but not necessary.
2. Asthma? Braces? Is it possible?
ABSOLUTELY! There are good instrument options for every student who wants to be in band. We have many students that have braces and/or asthma. Playing a wind instrument can actually be beneficial for those with asthma as it helps strengthen the lungs.
3. Who will be in the band at Tri County?
With the majority of students in each grade joining band, you and your friends will be joining one of the largest organizations at Tri County. Band students also participate in football, volleyball, basketball, wrestling, track, and much more!
4. Is it possible to be in Band and Sports?
YES, OF COURSE! Band creates habits of excellence that carry over to academics and athletics. In fact, if there weren't any athletes in band...we wouldn't have a band!
Be Part of the Band
Be Part of the Band
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