Part Four
Getting an instrument
9Getting started with an instrument
For Beginning Band families.
Beginning band starts with securing an instrument. There are three acceptable ways: rent, purchase, or borrow from the school.
Option A — Rent or purchase through Big Apple Music
Big Apple Music is our partner and delivers instruments directly to PCS during the first week of school. Lessons begin as soon as the instrument arrives.
Option B — Purchase elsewhere (approved brands only)
Send the instrument to school with your child. Their teacher will let Mr. Brown know it has arrived; lessons begin after the first assembly lesson.
Approved brands for beginners
| Instrument | Acceptable brands |
|---|---|
| Flute | Yamaha, Armstrong, Gemeinhardt |
| Clarinet | Yamaha, Leblanc, Selmer |
| Saxophone | Yamaha, Bundy, Yanagisawa, Selmer, C.G. Conn |
| Trumpet & Trombone | Yamaha, Vincent Bach, King, C.G. Conn |
Other brands may work, but the ones above are proven to serve beginners well. If you're considering something else — including a private-sale or online find — ask before purchasing. I'm happy to play it, or you can bring it to a qualified music store for a professional opinion.
Please do not let students assemble or play their new instrument until they receive proper instruction at school. Improper first assembly is the fastest way to cause damage.