Musical Instrument Selection Information
It is important for students to select an instrument with a sound they enjoy and that they are excited about. Student preference is an important factor in instrument selection, but not the only factor. When students are deciding on a preference, it is best to think in terms of first, second, and third choice, not an only choice.
First, there are physical characteristics that may help determine an instrument for a particular child. Lip, jaw, and dental characteristics are important. Second, the child’s musical aptitude is an important factor in instrument selection. Some instruments require a “better ear” for music than others, and will be better suited for students with proven ability in this area. These instruments
include Oboe, Trombone, Tuba and French Horn.
The “Basic Four” Instruments
A solid choice for the vast majority of students would be one of the following:
FLUTE
CLARINET
TRUMPET
TROMBONE
The band needs plenty of these four instruments!
The size of the sections provides built-in support and encouragement, and ample opportunity for cooperative learning and reinforcement. These four instruments are also comparable in price and complexity.
If you are considering any instrument other than the “Basic Four,” be sure to consult with Mr. Bass before making your final decision.
Woodwinds
Flute
The flute is the smallest and highest sounding of the band instruments. A flute case could easily fit inside a backpack. Sound is produced by blowing across a small hole (much the same as blowing on a pop bottle to make a sound). Things to consider: A large overbite can be an obstacle to getting a good sound on the flute as are braces or very full lips.
Clarinet
Like the flute, the clarinet is a compact instrument. The clarinet is a single reed instrument that has great versatility, wide playing range, and a smooth mellow sound. Considerations: Students must maintain a supply of 2-3 reeds in good playing condition at all times. The clarinet easily accommodates most dental conditions such as overbite or braces. Clarinet is a great alternative to saxophone! It is less expensive and provides an excellent foundation for a student who may later switch or double on saxophone.
Saxophone
Saxophone is the largest of the beginning woodwind instruments and it is the most expensive. The saxophone produces a full bright sound and has found great popularity in both jazz and rock bands. The saxophone is often a background instrument in the band, used sparingly to add a unique tonal color. A band of 100 only needs 7-8 saxophones. If too many students play the saxophone, their opportunities for playing become limited (a little like too many pitchers on the baseball team).
Considerations: Like the clarinet, a saxophone player needs to have a supply of 2-3 reeds. The saxophone might be a little tricky for a smaller child, or someone with small hands.
**PLEASE NOTE: The number of saxophones allowed in beginning band is limited to ten students. Please contact me ASAP and before rental night to assure your child a spot in band as a saxophone player!**
Brass
Trumpet
The trumpet is the smallest and the most popular of the brass instruments, and has the highest sound of the beginning brass instruments. The trumpet often has the melody/ solo lines in musical pieces. It is lightweight and can easily be carried to school or taken on a bus.
Considerations: The trumpet can be uncomfortable to play with braces. If your child has braces or will be getting them soon, you may want to consider the trombone instead. The larger mouthpieces are easier on the lips and teeth.
Trombone
The trombone is a fun instrument to play because it is the only member of the brass family that uses a slide to change the notes rather than valves! It is very important to have lots of students playing the trombone because it helps make the band sound rich and balanced. The trombone is lightweight and easy to transport on foot or bus. Considerations: The trombone is a good choice for kids who have large lips or dental issues like braces or crooked teeth.
Baritone
The baritone is the largest of the beginning brass instruments. Baritones typically have the bass line in band and have a very wide range of notes. Students who start on baritone have the option to switch to the tuba in 6th or 7th grade. The baritone is the heaviest of the beginning instruments but don’t let that discourage you from playing this rich sounding instrument.
Considerations: The barition is a great choice for students with braces, or may be getting braces. Transportation to and from school can also be an issue due to the baritones weight. Students who have difficulty creating the small buzz needed for trumpet are encouraged to play baritone.
Percussion
Snare Drum & Bells
Students who are interested in playing percussion MUST have at least one full year of regular piano lessons. Playing percussion requires advanced rhythm and note reading skills. Piano experience provides a necessary foundation for playing percussion.
If your child is going to play percussion, he or she will need a “Drum Kit”. The drum kit consists of a snare practice pad, bells and sticks and will be available on “Instrument Rental Night”.
**Please note: Parents must contact Mr. Bass to confirm that their child has had the necessary piano experience PRIOR to purchasing the percussion drum