Heading Off Inappropriate Instruments

 Not every beginner will rent an instrument. Some will already have one and others will make different arrangements for an instrument. Regardless of where students get an instrument, it is essential to their success that their instruments play properly, easily, and in tune.

The first several months of music are difficult for every student, and those with instruments that don’t play properly don’t really have a fair chance. Students who drop band tend to take others with them, creating a snowball effect. For these reasons you can't afford to be shy in requiring appropriate instruments.

Parents readily admit they know little or nothing about musical instruments; they expect and appreciate your advice as the band director. You do the parents, the student, and the music program a favor when you let them know, but a terrible disservice if you don't.

Many instruments that show up in beginning bands were not designed to be played in a band or with other instruments; they simply won't play in tune with the rest of the group. Other instruments are out of adjustment or in need of major repair. Some are just outdated or worn out. Once old or inadequate instruments are allowed in the band, they seem to turn up in the hands of other beginners year after year. If you allow an inappropriate instrument to be used one year in the band, it's difficult to tell the beginner who shows up with it the next year that it's not appropriate for them. Preventing inappropriate instruments from ever being used is good directing.

Almost all band directors require that instruments that come from attics, pawn shops, and any other non-standard sources be inspected and approved several days before the rental program. When the purpose for the inspection is explained, almost everyone appreciates both the idea and the free inspection. Every parent wants to give his child a fair chance; a suitable instrument is a necessity.

Many band directors set standards for beginner instruments, specifying a brand and model for each instrument or acceptable brands for all instruments. After a few years, the standards become known and expected in the community, and quality instruments become automatic. Then when used instruments find their way from the local community to the beginner band, they are the acceptable models.