HOW TO GET AN INSTRUMENT
It is financially impossible for the school to provide instruments for all students in the WLMS Band Program; however, you have a few options on how to obtain a band instrument:
1. Use a family-owned instrument OR
2. Rent from a local music store/vendor OR
3. Rent for the year from WLMS (limited supplies) for $50.00
* You may also purchase an instrument, but it is recommended to rent in the beginning until you know your student is committed to the instrument.
Option 1: Use a Family Owned Instrument (must be functional)
If you already have an instrument at home, you must bring it to the band director for approval. This is to ensure that you have a good quality instrument and that it is in good working condition. The quality and working order of an instrument will directly affect your success in learning to play. Students are responsible for all maintenance bills for their instruments.
Option 2: Rent from a Local Music Company (highly recommended)
Most students rent to own their instruments from a music company. When you rent an instrument from a music company, all questions regarding the terms of your rental agreement or other services through the music company, must be directed to the company. The director is not responsible for returning any instrument or sending in your rental payments. If an instrument must be returned, you must make arrangements with the company directly. The director is not responsible for any agreement or payment issues with the company. Contact the company if you have questions about the instrument or your rental agreement.
High-quality instruments are a must. Avoid eBay and Amazon. The inexpensive brand instruments are impossible to play in tune and cannot be repaired. A used, high-quality instrument is better than a poorly manufactured one.
Option 3: Rent from WLMS (limited supply)
The Instrument Rental Fee is $50.00 per school year; rental over the summer is also available. Some school-owned instruments (inventory limited), including woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments, are available for student use. To rent a school instrument, the $50 nonrefundable rental fee and the School Instrument Check Out Form must be turned in to the band director. The fee covers “normal wear and tear,” but the student’s parent is financially responsible for loss or any damages incurred during the rental period that is not considered “normal wear and tear.” The director has the right to void the rental agreement if excessive damage or misuse of the instrument occurs during the school year. Not all instruments are available; those available to be rented are on a first-come, first-serve basis. Families with financial hardships or more than one child in the band program needing to rent a school instrument may work out an arrangement with the band director on a case-by-case basis. Each student is required to purchase their own mouthpiece.
PLEASE DO NOT RENT OR BUY THESE BRANDS:
Jean-Paul, First Act, DEG, Novello, Glory, Lazarro, Mendini, Hallelu, Merano, Shoenbach, Benton, Tangkula, Andoer, Etude, LJ Hutchen, Queen, Tromba, Hawk, Monel, Barrington, Benson, Tempest, Ammoon, OPUS, Hisonic, Legacy, Moz, Cecilio, Rugeri and any “colored” instruments.
Please contact Mr. Kelly before buying an instrument - even from a music store.