Elementary Band & Orchestra Programs

A: The DCYO-EIM program recommends Golden Music and Music & Arts.

A: Yes, absolutely! We recommend having it checked over by an instrument repair technician to ensure it's in good playing condition. Instruments that have sat for a long period of time often need some basic TLC to bring them back into proper working order.Woodwind instruments (flute, clarinet, saxophone, etc.) often need work on their pads after sitting for an extended period of time, as the pads dry out and become brittle, causing leaks.Having a reliable instrument is key to success for a beginner student.

A: You have the option to purchase. Most often, we recommend renting for beginners until they are sure their chosen instrument is the one they truly enjoy playing and are personally committed to investing the time and energy necessary to advance on it.

A: Yes - in addition to your instrument, there are specific items that your student will need play and maintain the instrument. Many instrument rental companies have package deals, that include: the instrument, lesson book, and essential care products.Those include...Lesson BookFolding music standFlute: soft clean cloth, such as a handkerchief.Clarinet: 4 "medium soft" or (strength 2 or 2-1/2) clarinet reeds*, cork grease and a cleaning swab.Saxophone: 4 "medium soft" or (strength 2 or 2-1/2) saxophone reeds*, cork grease, either a "swab" or a "pad saver" and a neckstrap.Trumpet: valve oil and tuning slide grease.French horn: valve oil and tuning slide grease.Trombone: slide oil or slide spray and tuning slide grease.Euphonium/Baritone: valve oil and tuning slide grease.Tuba: valve oil and tuning slide grease.Percussion: please have a drum kit with bells for class. This should include snare drum sticks, bell mallets and instrument stands.Violin: shoulder rest or sponge, rosin and a soft cloth. A full set of extra strings is highly recommended.Viola: shoulder rest or sponge, rosin and a soft cloth. Extra strings on the higher two pitches are highly recommended (A and D).Cello: rock stop or cello board, rosin and a soft cloth.String Bass: rock stop, bass rosin, and a soft cloth.*[Note about reeds] Woodwind reeds for clarinet and saxophone don't last very long, especially at the very beginning stages. Students should always have more than one reed available, which will mean either stocking up in advance, or getting more reeds several times through the year. It is possible that we can have reeds delivered directly to the school for your convenience.

A: To return a rented instrument, either due to leaving the class, or end of the year, you should contact the vendor with whom you have your rental agreement to inquire about their process for ending the rental and returning the instrument.[Disclaimer]: It is the responsibility of the parents / individual renting the instrument to contact the vendor with whom they have a rental contact. The DCYO-EIM program, our teachers or administrators are not party to information regarding, rental agreements, billing, insurance, and return of rented instruments and equipment. Please see your rental agreement.

Yes, students can switch instruments if they feel another one suits them better. Discuss this with your instructor to ensure a smooth transition.

A: If your instrument needs repairs, contact the vendor or store where you rented or purchased it. They often provide repair services or can recommend a trusted technician.