This list is provided as a service to the Irvine Community. You may use any vendor you choose including those not listed on this list. Irvine Unified does not endorse any of these vendors. This information was filled out by the vendor and has not been validated.
Tuner:
Metronome:
Music Download Apps:
Music Theory:
Recording:
Violin
Violin Online - Information for Violinists
Midori
Itzak Perlman
Gil Shaham
Hilary Hahn
Lindsey Stirling
Joshua Bell
Maxim Vengerov
Viola
Viola Online - Information for Violists
Kim Kashkashian
Pinchas Zuckerman
Nobuko Imai
Yuri Bashmet
Richard O'Neill
Lawrence Power
Cello
Cello Online - Information for Cellists
Yo-Yo Ma
Mstislav Rostropovich
Jacqueline du Pré
Pablo Casals
Han Na Chang
Two Cellos
Bass
Bass Online - Information for Bassists
Edgar Meyer
Ranaan Meyer: http://www.ranaanmeyerentertainment.com/
Chamber Music
Emerson String Quartet
Pacifica Quartet
Kronos Quartet
The Piano Guys
There are many places to buy a musical instrument including department stores, catalogs, internet sites, private individuals and wholesale clubs. Many times, these non-school music stores will offer what seem like very inexpensive instruments. With some of these instruments, there is no after-sale support, no repair service or a direct working relationship with the manufacturer; and the instruments are typically of low quality. The results when purchasing from a non-school music type of source are often frustrated students and higher long-term costs for the parents. We recommend renting or purchasing an instrument from a store that specializes in school music service.
When you are ready to rent or purchase an instrument, here are a few "pointers" to help you choose a good quality instrument.
A usable instrument is a well-constructed work of art, combining both the latest technology and time-tested old-world craftsmanship.
Often, students/parents who purchase instruments from auction sites end up frustrated due to the poor quality of the instrument or because the instrument is in need of serious repair. Not all manufacturers build instruments according to specific standards with up to date technology. Most school music stores offer only quality brand name instruments that directors prefer.
This will not be easy with internet/catalog companies. It will cost more in shipping and restocking fees than if you went to a local school music store.
Do not waste your time on unknown instrument brands. Non-brand name instrument manufacturers often do not make parts available to repair centers. Therefore, locate a good name brand from your teacher or local school music store.
Not all instruments are created equal! Cheap instruments are usually just that, cheap. If you purchase a "questionable" instrument, you may spend more on repair just to make it usable. Some brands of instruments manufactured offshore or even domestically cannot be supported with critical parts for proper maintenance and repair.
These people can be a great resource. They are typically professionally trained and often work hand in hand with us and some make regular visits to the school. For the best advice on stringed instruments, find a local music store that deals with strings often, not just as a side venture.
Repair is an inevitable fact. Alternative sources often do not offer maintenance or replacement programs. Most school music stores offer maintenance and replacement programs as part of their rental/purchase plans. Usually, the cost is nominal and is well worth the small expense. Remember, it is a matter of "WHEN" not "IF" an instrument in regards to repair and service.
If you have any questions or concerns or would like an input on which instruments are proper and suitable, please contact the strings teacher at your child’s school.