Mesa, Arizona
(480) 833-2474

Student and Parent Help

As a band director, in the public schools for over 25 years and I enjoyed working with beginning band
students. I found there were certain elements that made up the "successful band student".

• There was a combined interest of both parent and child. Many times, one or both of the parents
  played an instrument in school. There was parent interest occurring at home where the child
  performed for family and friends. The family attended the school concerts and performances
  and joined in the band activities.
   
• A very important factor was the student played a quality instrument made by a recognized
  manufacturer of band instruments. This is one of the most important factors in the success of
  your child’s musical experience.
   
• Private lessons are a great help in the success of your child. If you can afford a few lessons,
  especially at the very beginning, the "one on one" experience is invaluable. School lessons are
  usually in group situations.

Member of
NAPBIRT

Obtaining an Instrument

The most common way to obtain an instrument is renting at a local music store. Renting is okay if
you need to find out if your child is going to succeed in band or if it is the best way to fit your budget.
Shop around. There are many different rental program available. The cheapest rate is not always the
best plan. However if you can own an instrument you are probably economically ahead. Children
have pride in their own instrument and seem to take better care of it.

Sometimes there is an instrument in the family that your child can use. The quality of this instrument
is sometimes better than the instrument you might rent. However, make sure the instrument is in
good playing condition. Most of the time the family instrument has been setting in storage for several
years and needs new pads or a good chemical cleaning.

Other sources that are used to obtain an instrument are Ebay, pawn shops, flea markets, etc.
This is a buyer beware situation. Make sure the instrument is a quality instrument. Most likely it will
need some repair, even if the seller says the horn is in great shape.

Audio Wizard, Inc  2006