FAQs – Beginning Instrumental Classes
How should I choose which instrument is right for my child?
If you would like advice on selecting and purchasing an instrument appropriate for your student and what costs to expect, Mrs. Eckhoff would be happy to meet with you during her planning period at THEO. Please contact her by email at eckhoff6@swbell.net .
Where should I get an instrument?
The best place to get an instrument for your child is from a reputable music store that specializes in instruments. These stores will have the best quality instruments, which gives your child the best chance of playing well without the frustration of dealing with equipment problems. Poor quality instruments produce a poor tone, have frequent repair needs, and are extremely difficult to tune properly. Music stores will have new and used instruments, as well as purchase and rental plans. They will also have all the supplies you will need and repair technicians. A private lesson instructor can also help you find resources for purchasing an instrument. If you have a friend who wants to sell you an instrument, it should be evaluated first by an experienced repair technician or private lesson instructor. It is best to avoid purchasing an instrument at a pawn shop, garage sale or department store.
What age is best for my child to start to play a musical instrument?
In many ways, that depends on your child. Many times starting too early is more harmful than helpful, and kids who start later will usually catch up pretty easily to those who started younger. Some of it depends upon the child’s physical structure (Can he she hold the instrument up for long periods of time? Are his/her fingers long enough to reach all the keys?). Some of it depends upon emotional and mental development (Can he/she sit and focus for at least 30 minutes alone to practice? Are reading skills firmly established?). Students who already have a background in piano will find it easier to learn a new instrument. For most kids, the time to start is somewhere between the broad range of 4th-8th grade. Our classes are for students in 6th grade and up. If your child has already learned to play an instrument, they are welcome to play in the Instrumental Ensemble.
Does my child need to have any musical background in order to learn to play an instrument?
No prior experience with music is necessary. The beginning classes cover learning to read music and well as learning to play the instrument.
What instruments are taught in each class?
Woodwinds – flute, oboe, clarinet, bass clarinet, bassoon, all saxophones
Brass – trumpet, trombone, French horn, euphonium/baritone, tuba
Percussion – snare drum, bass drum, mallets/keyboard, cymbals, auxiliary percussion