Instrumentation:
Included Instruments
Almost all 'regular' wind band instruments are part of this group, including:
- Flute
- Clarinet
- Saxophone (alto, tenor)
- French Horn
- Trombone
- Baritone
- Tuba
- Percussion
Instruments NOT included
- String / Orchestra instruments (Violin, Viola, Cello, Bass, Harp)1
- Guitar
- Electric bass2
- Piano / Keyboard3
- Soprano Saxophone (not included in 'wind band' instrumentation)4
Instruments not excluded but NOT RECOMMENDED
There are several instruments that are not recommended for initial beginners. These are due to their increased difficulty in learning during the first year. For these instruments we recommend alternates that should be started first and then transition to the desired instrument after 1+ year/s of initial learning. The recommended 'starting' instrument is indicated next to the instrument below.
This is a recommendation and it is still the option of the parent to have the student pursue these instruments; however, any student pursuing these instruments in beginning band would REQUIRE private instruction as we do not provide specific instruction in the mechanics of playing these instruments. We also require continuing private lessons for some of these instruments once they transition to Concert Band (See the Concert Band details for more information).
- Piccolo (Flute)
- Oboe (Clarinet)
- Bassoon (Clarinet)
- Bass Clarinet (Clarinet)
- Baritone Saxophone (Tenor Saxophone)
- Bass Trombone (Trombone)
Notes
1We are considering adding a string program in the future. If you or others you know are interested in such a program please let us know.
2Those interested in playing bass in our Jazz Band are encouraged to begin on Tuba or Upright Bass in one of the area string programs.
3Those with experience on Piano are encouraged to consider playing percussion. Percussion includes both 'non-tuned' instruments (various drums) as well as 'tuned percussion' (bells, xylophone, chimes, etc). Students with skills in piano can usually easily transition to percussion.
4Students interested in playing Soprano Saxophone, which is only used in our Jazz Band, are encouraged to play one of the other saxophones or clarinet in the other bands.