WILLINGTON PREP MUSIC DEPARTMENT
To successfully progress in learning an instrument, it is necessary to have a suitable instrument to use in lessons and for home practice. Your child's tutor can advise on suitable instruments to use.
The school has a small selection of woodwind and brass instruments available for loan when a child begins learning at school. There is currently no fee for borrowing one of these instruments, but parents are responsible for instrument insurance and cost of repairs/replacement if needed. Priority is given to new players and on first-come, first-served basis of request. If a new player applies and another player has had an instrument for a term already, the instrument is to be given to the new player so the continuing player can source their own instrument. Children are welcome to use their school instrument for more than a term until a new applicant requires it, although most will source their own instrument within the first year - it is always nicer to have one's own, if possible!
Several music shops offer hire/purchase schemes (or basic hire schemes) for instruments. Ask your child's tutor for their recommendation as there are often specialist suppliers for specific instruments/ instrument groups.
For piano learners, an acoustic piano is ideal, but not necessary at beginner level. There are many good digital models with weighted keys which are more affordable, smaller in size and adequate for the initial stages of learning.
For drummers, there are electronic kits available with headphones / small speakers, which reduces noise levels when playing.