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EQUIPMENT
- Beneath is the recommended equipment (instrument, mouthpieces, reeds, accessories) for each instrument.
- Please email me Mr. Kulhawy with questions.
- This equipment is available at Dibella Music and can also be ordered online at O. Dibella Music or on amazon.com, etc.
Single Reed Advice (clarinet, saxophone)
Please consult with your child before buying reeds - the strength (number) and brand make a big difference! I advise not purchasing more than 10 reeds at a time because students may "outgrow" them quickly. Most students can get by on 2 reeds per month (20 reeds per school year), but it can vary.
Double Reed Advice (oboe, bassoon)
Please consult with your child before buying reeds - the strength (thickness) and brand make a big difference! I advise not purchasing more than 3-4 reeds at a time because students may "outgrow" them quickly. Most reeds will last 1-2 months if properly cared for. Most students will use 6-8 reeds per year, but it can vary.
Hand-me-down and Bargain Instrument Advice
Hand-me-down saxophones, clarinets, and flutes that are older than 10-15 years often require so much repair work that a new or rental instrument would be less expensive and will play better. Hand-me-down trumpets and trombones will usually work fine after a $100 trip to the repair shop. I highly recommend against inexpensive "bargain" instruments available online or through big box stores. They break very easily and play poorly. Such an instrument will hold a student back significantly and cause a lot of frustration.
"Step-Up" Instrument Advice
The most common time parents purchase a "step-up" instrument is when their child enters high school. However, students can benefit from a step-up instrument in middle school if they are performing at an advanced level or auditioning for County/Region Bands. Please consult with me or a private lesson teacher first. Step-up recommendations can also be found on the chart underneath. A step-up mouthpiece can be a less expensive alternative and can make a big difference in sound quality.
