INFORMATION YOU WILL ALWAYS NEED
Frequently Asked Questions (about band in general)
My instrument is broken, what should I do?
Get it fixed :) Take it to a reputable music repair shop. We are serviced by Quinlan&Fabish Music Company. We see a representative on Tuesdays. They will take your instrument, provide you with a loaner, and call with an estimate for repairs (before doing any repairs- you must approve this first unless you are on their extended warranty plan). You are free to take your instrument to any local store, but we cannot guarantee they will provide you with a loaner during service.
Where can I purchase reeds and other musical supplies?
Once again, you may use any music store. We have actually found the most success online (Amazon, etc) because you will usually not pay tax and sometimes they will offer free shipping. You may also try a local music store- keep in mind that prices will fluctuate. Shop around!
We also have an "in and out" account for reed/supply purchases. We can purchase from a music store and you can reimburse the band (or apply fundraising credit).
My child wants to switch instruments. Is this possible?
Usually the reason students want to switch is because the believe they have already learned how to play that instrument and now want to try a new one. While that may work for video games, learning a musical instrument is a life-long process - and one never truly masters their instrument. There are indeed situations where an instrument switch is in the best interest of the student and the band. These switches are facilitated through the band director. Showing up to school one day and saying "I decided I'm going to play percussion from now on," is not going to work out too well.
Should I upgrade my child`s instrument?
All students learn on a beginner level instrument. Moving to a better quality instrument usually will result in the student being able to play with better tone and more in tune. Other benefits are: faster key and valve action, additional keys or valves which allow the student access to higher or lower notes. We are always happy to help with this process. Please let me know if you are considering an upgraded instrument and I can assist with brands and models of instruments that will be of value. A word of caution - what looks like a great bargain may not be one. The old expression is very true - YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR.
Get it fixed :) Take it to a reputable music repair shop. We are serviced by Quinlan&Fabish Music Company. We see a representative on Tuesdays. They will take your instrument, provide you with a loaner, and call with an estimate for repairs (before doing any repairs- you must approve this first unless you are on their extended warranty plan). You are free to take your instrument to any local store, but we cannot guarantee they will provide you with a loaner during service.
Where can I purchase reeds and other musical supplies?
Once again, you may use any music store. We have actually found the most success online (Amazon, etc) because you will usually not pay tax and sometimes they will offer free shipping. You may also try a local music store- keep in mind that prices will fluctuate. Shop around!
We also have an "in and out" account for reed/supply purchases. We can purchase from a music store and you can reimburse the band (or apply fundraising credit).
My child wants to switch instruments. Is this possible?
Usually the reason students want to switch is because the believe they have already learned how to play that instrument and now want to try a new one. While that may work for video games, learning a musical instrument is a life-long process - and one never truly masters their instrument. There are indeed situations where an instrument switch is in the best interest of the student and the band. These switches are facilitated through the band director. Showing up to school one day and saying "I decided I'm going to play percussion from now on," is not going to work out too well.
Should I upgrade my child`s instrument?
All students learn on a beginner level instrument. Moving to a better quality instrument usually will result in the student being able to play with better tone and more in tune. Other benefits are: faster key and valve action, additional keys or valves which allow the student access to higher or lower notes. We are always happy to help with this process. Please let me know if you are considering an upgraded instrument and I can assist with brands and models of instruments that will be of value. A word of caution - what looks like a great bargain may not be one. The old expression is very true - YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR.