Instruments and Equipment

Most school band programs have some instruments available to loan out to students, but most do not have nearly enough for every student to use a band-owned instrument. School programs tend to focus on supplying instruments that are either too expensive for the average student, or are too bulky and difficult to move or store at home. Large percussion equipment, sousaphones for marching, and contrabass clarinets are examples of instruments you will probably not be expected to supply. On the other hand, most players of flutes, trumpets, and regular (B flat) clarinets will be expected to supply their own instrument.

You can find reasonably-priced student-quality instruments at music stores, or you may want to look for second-hand instruments. You may also want to consider renting an instrument, particularly if your child is just starting to play. In a year or two, you and your child may know much more about what you need from an instrument. Some students even change instruments after a year or two to something that suits them better or that the band has more need of. When you are ready to buy an instrument, get specific advice from your child's teacher or band director, or from more experienced band members.

Most instruments will come with a case. Hard cases are heavier but provide more protection and are usually a good idea for younger, less careful players. Soft cases and "gig bags" are much lighter and easier to carry, but do not protect the instrument as well. They are popular with older, serious musicians who play often, and usually must be bought separately.

Wind instruments require mouthpieces, which may or may not come with the instrument. A teacher or director may recommend a different mouthpiece for your child than the one that came with the instrument, and some wind players end up with a small collection of mouthpieces to be used in different situations. Except for flutes, woodwind instruments also require a steady supply of reeds.

Most drums and percussion equipment for rehearsal and performance will be provided by the band, but percussion players will need enough equipment to practice at home. At first, sticks and a practice pad (which is very quiet compared to a real drum) will probably be enough, but the enthusiastic percussionist will eventually want to own more equipment.

You and your child will also be responsible for the care and upkeep of the instrument. There are few things more frustrating to the young player than having to fight to get good sounds out of an instrument because it is in poor repair. Your child should quickly learn, from a private teacher, beginners’ band teacher or band director, or from the person selling you the instrument, how to do basic care tasks such as cleaning and oiling the instrument. Make sure you buy the right supplies for the instrument. Many players may also eventually learn more advanced care tasks such as replacing parts that wear out often (such as drum heads), but some repair tasks will have to be done by a professional, and you may find it worthwhile to periodically schedule professional cleaning and maintenance.

Dress

Students will be expected to follow some sort of dress code for performances. Dress requirements for band performances may vary greatly from one school to another or even from one band to another at the same school. Expensive specialty items, like marching uniforms, are usually owned by the band program and loaned or rented to the students. Some programs may require the purchase of matching t-shirts or polo shirts (often with the band or school name) for each band member. It's usually up to the student's family to buy more general items that can also be worn in other situations. Some typical dress requirements:

Lessons and Practice

Private lessons are normally not required for band members. They will help your child progress much more quickly, however. If your child wants to play solos or be given important parts, or is aiming for a higher band or a higher chair, some lessons may be necessary.

Practicing at home, on the other hand, is pretty much a necessity. Try to make sure that your child has a comfortable place to practice. A folding music stand is inexpensive and helps make practice much easier. Make sure that there is also a time in your child's daily schedule when practice will not bother any neighbors or family members.

Your child may need reminders and encouragement to practice, especially when young or just beginning. Older, more experienced students usually become more self-motivated. Practicing often is essential to making real progress on the instrument; short, efficient daily practices (see A Guide to Great Home Music Practice) are much more effective than rare marathon-length sessions.

Encouraging words (no criticism) after a practice session will help your child begin to look forward to practicing.

Rehearsals and Performances

Your child will be expected to show up on time with all necessary music and equipment for all rehearsals and performances. In most bands, "on time" means seated, ready to play. This means showing up early enough to get in, sit down, get out the instrument and music and "warm up" before rehearsal begins.

Since the main point of rehearsals is for the students to learn to play together, the absence of any student hurts the entire group. Problems with the rehearsal schedule should be discussed with the director beforehand. Attendance at all performances is even more crucial, as missing students may mean missing parts in the music and an upset in the balance between the instruments. If your child has a serious scheduling conflict involving a performance, you should discuss the problem with the director as soon as you know about it.

Not every band student is going to become an outstanding musician, and the expectations for the typical school band reflect this. The highest places in the ensemble will be reserved for the best players, but band grades, and the respect and appreciation of the director, will be a reflection of your child's effort in practicing and in showing up at rehearsals and performances, on time, properly equipped and dressed, and ready to play.