Instruments

All students are expected to provide quality musical instruments maintained in proper playing order.  Related supplies such as reeds, valve oil, sticks, etc. are also the responsibility of each individual musician.   Whenever possible, repairs should be made during the summer break and other school holidays so as to maintain a maximally effective rehearsal and performance schedule.  When instruments, reeds, mutes, sticks, etc. are missing or not functioning, the flow of the rehearsal is disrupted which negatively affects student learning and ensemble improvement.

The Sedro-Woolley School District offers large woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments for student use.   These instruments are costly and are reconditioned during the summer months.   They are in proper playing condition at the beginning of the year.   Students electing to use a school instrument are expected to maintain and properly care for and store that instrument.   Students are liable for damages sustained from poor care, neglect, and/or abuse.   Students using school instruments are also encouraged to purchase their own quality mouthpiece when applicable.

Percussionists must have their own set of concert snare drum sticks.   Jazz Band Percussionists should also own their own brushes.   Brass players should have their own mutes.   Trumpeters should have both a straight and a cup mute (preferably made of metal).   Trumpeters who play in the Jazz Band should acquire a Harmon (“Wah-wah”) mute and a plunger mute.   Trombonists in the Jazz Band should also consider acquiring a plunger mute.  

All students are encouraged to “step-up” to an intermediate level or better instrument when entering high school.   At the very least, consider purchasing a new quality mouthpiece.