Supplies

Metronome- A metronome is a great tool to have and helps students develop a steady internal pulse. This will vastly improve your child's ability to play correct rhythms and play with a consistent steady beat. There are metronome apps and also digital metronomes that you can purchase for usually $15 and up.

Shoulder rest for Violin and Viola- There are many different brands but most students use Kun or Everest. They usually cost around $20 or so and should be the appropriate size for your child's instrument. They make playing the instrument easier, more comfortable, and helps the overall playing position and sound.

Strings- There are many choices when it comes to strings and picking the right quality string for your child is very important. For students who rent you are stuck with what the rental company supplies. For students who own an instrument I would highly recommend getting higher quality strings such as Thomastic Dominants for Violin or Viola. For cello and bass Pirastro Permanents are great but expensive. If you don't want to spend the money for the recommended strings and are interested in finding something better than what you currently have feel free to contact me at bkeller@crsd.org.