Instrument Info

Instruments

All brass and woodwind players are required to have their own instrument. Options include purchasing your own or renting through a music store. In some cases, students may rent a school-owned instrument. Large and/or expensive instruments including french horn, baritone, tuba, oboe, bassoon, bass clarinet, tenor saxophone, and baritone saxophone are typically rented through the school. A limited number of smaller instruments are available for rental from the school. Priority for these smaller instruments is given to free & reduced students.

I recommend certain brands of instruments based on helping students succeed and helping parents to make quality cost-effective investments. These are the brands I recommend for beginner-level instruments (in order of preference)

• Flute: Yamaha, Gemeinhardt, Armstrong, Selmer

• Clarinet: Yamaha, Selmer; also Bundy, Vito, Artley

• Saxophone: Yamaha

• Trumpet: Yamaha, Bach

• Trombone: Yamaha, Bach

Other brands might also be acceptable. Parents are welcome to bring used instruments to Mr. Gardner for evaluation. 

Basic Instrument Supplies

I strongly encourage you to support our local music stores including The Joy of Music in Washington, and West Music in Iowa City. Both stores offer great deals on all supplies listed below. 

Instrument Care

Click on the image below for specific care guide for your instrument. 

Equipment Upgrade Process

At some point, your band student will likely outgrow their beginner instrument. The equipment upgrade process involves multiple factors and looks different for each student and family, but here are my general recommendations

Step 1 (for some instruments): Mouthpiece Upgrade

This upgrade is low cost and can happen as early as 6th grade, but it is requested by 8th grade. Benefits include improved sound quality and ease of playing. It also makes for a big improvement to the overall band's sound. Advanced players may require an additional upgrade in the future, but these recommendations will serve the vast majority of students through high school.

Step 2: Instrument Upgrade

The first question is when to make this upgrade. Serious band students might consider an instrument upgrade in 8th grade. Others will look to upgrade in 9th grade.

There are many factors to consider including budget, brand, instrument features, and the fit for your student.

Mr. Gardner or your private teacher will be a valuable resource who can help you maximize your investment and ensure the instrument you choose will serve your student's success. If you are considering an upgrade, please contact Mr. Gardner for more information!