Getting an Instrument

There are multiple options for obtaining an instrument such as: renting, buying new, buying used and borrowing from school. It can be very confusing to understand the differences between instruments and brands. It would be best to talk to a reputable music store or talk to the band director at your school. 

The retail market is flooded with instruments that are very cheaply made and seem like a "good deal" at the time, however, they are often poorly crafted and used sub-par materials. The result is that they do not play well (out of tune, difficult to make a sound) and are often impossible to repair due to the materials used. 

If you are interested in a purchasing an instrument yourself, please contact the band director for guidance before purchasing. Speaking to a knowledgeable sales person at a reputable music store is also recommended. 

Renting

Hickeys Music Center in Ithaca and Harrington Bros. Music in Cortland are two stores that provide service for band instruments in our area. This is often the best method to choose because these instruments are of good quality, will work properly, and will offer your student the best possibility for success. You are free to choose any vendor that you wish. 

Hickeys Music in Ithaca

Used Instruments

This can be an excellent idea if the instrument is in good condition. It will be a disaster if the instrument does not work properly. If you decide to go this route, it would be best to have the instrument inspected by a music store or me. Feel free to contact me if you have questions about an instrument. 

Internet

Although the Internet is a wonderful place for many things, it has potential to be a dangerous option for instrument purchase. If the price is too good to be true, IT IS! On many occasions the instruments seem like a great deal, however, the quality is so poor that your child will not be successful! We need to give all of our students every opportunity for success and enjoyment in music! Please speak with me if you have a specific concern, otherwise renting is the best option.

School Owned Instruments

There are a limited number of school owned instruments that are available to students. While we would all love to get something for free, school instruments will be distributed on a first come first served basis at my discretion. If you need an instrument and cannot rent one you must contact me. I will then make decisions based on our conversation. These instruments are not here to “see if my child likes the clarinet."

Recommended Brands: 

(This is a sample and not a complete list. Please ask your band director or a reputable sales person if you have questions before purchasing)

• Yamaha

• Conn/Selmer

• Jupiter

• Gemeinhardt

• Armstrong

• Buffet

• King

• Getzen

Used Instruments

Occasionally families will contact me with an interest in selling a used instrument. I will post those instruments here. If you are interested in selling your used instrument, please contact me: aphilli1@dryden.k12.ny.us 

Hickeys Music Rental Information

Hickeys music is located in Ithaca on Dey St. and offers rental programs, supplies, repairs, new/used instruments and delivers to DES.