INSTRUMENT CARE EXPECTATIONS

Instruments should be taken home every day for practice and security reasons. Band students will be expected to keep their instruments in good, clean working condition. Every instrument case must have a nametag, soft cleaning cloth (part of an old cotton t-shirt), sharpened pencil, and be clean and free from clutter. NO MUSIC OR FOLDERS INSIDE CASES – NO EXCEPTIONS!

If a student has a problem with their instrument, they should bring it to the attention of the director as soon as possible. If the director cannot fix the problem, you will need to take your instrument to a repairman immediately. Many students have maintenance agreements through their local music store from where they purchased the instrument. If a student’s instrument is at a music store for repair, a parent should provide the director with a note so the student will not be penalized for not having their instrument in class. Please only allow professional instrument repair technicians to fix your student’s instrument. Do not take it upon yourself to fix the instrument, as you may cause more damage and costly repairs.

SCHOOL OWNED INSTRUMENTS

• Students must sign a “School Owned Instrument Loan Agreement” form before the instrument can be used by the student. 

• Each instrument will be issued in good playing condition. Each issued instrument will be checked and cleaned prior to issuing. Students are expected to maintain their issued instruments accordingly. 

• The band member’s family is financially responsible for all equipment and/or materials checked out to them. 

• All equipment and materials must be returned in the condition they were checked out in, or the student/parent will be responsible to pay the replacement/damage fees.

• Vandalism or abuse of any school-owned equipment will result in disciplinary action in accordance with school policies and if necessary, the local authorities.

GENERAL INSTRUMENT CARE

All instruments require a little TLC to stay in good playing condition. You can find all of your cleaning supplies and accessories for instrument care at one of the local music stores (Music and Arts, Sam Ash, Charlotte Band Instrument Services, etc.).

It is each student's responsibility to maintain and care for your instrument, as well as to have the necessary instrument accessories at all times. Please refer to the information in the band handbook for a complete list of required instrument accessories.

Performing routine maintenance on your instrument is each student's responsibility as a musician and it can be done rather easily if you follow the steps below. Please remember to treat your instrument with respect at all times!