Elementary Band & Orchestra Programs
A Vendor Program for the Douglas County School District (DCSD), providing Elementary Band & Orchestra Instruction
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Started
The Elementary Instrumental Music (EIM) Program is a before and after school educational outreach program of the Douglas County Youth Orchestra. We are a Vendor for Douglas County School District (DCSD), providing Elementary Band & Orchestra Instruction.
Step 1 - Selecting an Instrument
Choosing the right musical instrument for your student can be an exciting journey. Start by discussing their interests and preferences; ask them about the types of music they enjoy. It's also helpful to consider their physical size, as some instruments may be easier to handle than others. Finally, encourage them to try out different instruments before making their final decision.
To help with this decision, we offer two (2) opportunities for your student to get "hands-on" with the instrument they feel they might enjoy.
School Demo Days​
Each school will have a "Demo Day" when our instructors and local musical instrument vendors visit your student's school with all the instruments offered through our program. Our professionals demonstrate each instrument, talk about its particular characteristics, and play a short demonstration to let students hear the differences. We then invite your student to try out each instrument they may be interested in playing.
Feeder Rental / Meet the Teacher Events​
In addition to our school demo days, we offer parents and students an opportunity to give the instrument(s) they feel might be a good fit for them a second time and switch their choice if needed. This event is not only an opportunity to try the instrument(s) again, but also to rent the instrument on-site and go home with the new instrument your child will be so excited about. Feeder Rental / Meet the Teacher Events are scheduled after school demo days in each feeder area are completed.
Step 2 - Registering for Class
To register for the class, please review the class description provided below. Once you have identified whether your student should enroll in the beginner or intermediate level, kindly use the link below to access our registration portal, where you will select the appropriate school, group, and level for your student.
Beginning Level Band & Orchestra​
​The Beginning level is open to all students in grades 4th and up. Participants will learn how to assemble, maintain, and start playing an instrument; they will also learn basic music reading skills associated with their chosen instrument.
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​Band classes include the following instruments: Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone, Trumpet, French Horn, Trombone, Baritone & Percussion.
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Requirements: No prior experience is necessary.
Intermediate Level Band & Orchestra
The Intermediate Level is open to all students in grades 4th and up. Students will enhance the foundational skills they developed in the Beginning Level and explore more intricate music across various styles.
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​Orchestra classes include the following instruments: Violin, Viola, Cello & Bass.
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Requirements: Previous experience, such as completing a year of Beginning Band or 1+ years of private instruction, is required.
Step 3 - Getting / Renting an Instrument
After your student has selected their desired instrument the next step is to acquire one. There are several options to consider, including utilizing instrument you already possess, renting, or purchasing a new one. Below is some information that may assist you in making an informed decision.
Renting an Instrument
Renting an instrument is a good option for beginning students. With many of the local music stores, the monthly cost is inexpensive ($20 - $100) depending on choice of instrument. A percentage of payments are applied towards final purchase of the instrument.
Should a student show a strong interest and want to upgrade to a nicer quality instrument (or a full-size instrument for orchestra students), rental money can be transferred to the purchase of a different instrument. Many beginning instrument models are designed to be sturdy and create decent sounds for less cost. As students progress, intermediate instruments and professional instruments become appealing for many reasons, but of course, have a much higher cost.
In addition to our school demo days, we offer parents and students an opportunity to give the instrument(s) they feel might be a good fit for them a second time, and switch their choice if needed. This event is both a try instrument and a rent the instrument event.
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Feeder Rental / Meet the Teacher Events are scheduled after school demo day's in each feeder area are completed.
Using an Instrument You Own
If you intend to use an instrument you already own, such as your father's old trumpet, that is excellent. However, please be aware that it may require maintenance to ensure it is in optimal condition; we recommend having it inspected. You are encouraged to visit any instrument repair shop of your choice, as there are several the area that offer quality repair services.
Purchasing an Instrument
When considering the purchase of an instrument, it is essential to recognize that, like any product, there are both high-quality and lower-quality options available. A helpful guideline to remember is that if a price appears too good to be true, it likely is. Generally, inexpensive instruments may not perform well, which could ultimately lead to frustration for the child.