Music provides an incredible avenue of connection, especially while participating in a setting such as a band. But with so many instruments in a band, you might be asking yourself, “How do I choose a band instrument to play?”
Maybe the instrument you or your child currently plays is not a typical piece in a band, or you are interested in learning to play a new band instrument.
While the key to mastering an instrument is directly connected to significant amounts of practice time, you or your child may have a much more enjoyable time learning the instrument by selecting one of interest and suitability.
Read on for some tips in choosing the best band instrument for the student, including such things as personality, instrument popularity, age, and even physical features of the student.
Table of Contents
- How Do You Choose Your Band Instrument?
- How Do I Choose a Band Instrument To Play? 9 Things To Consider
- When Should You Choose a Band Instrument To Play?
- Strike Up the Band! Let Northwest School of Music Help You Choose a Band Instrument and Learn How To Play With Our Skilled Instructors
How Do You Choose Your Band Instrument?
In the next school year, your child has declared they wish to play in the band.
Although you know there are numerous benefits to learning music and participating in the band, choosing a school band instrument can feel like a huge decision for your child and frankly overwhelming to you.
For some, the decision is simple if your child is already studying an instrument. However, for those picking up an instrument for the first time, you may be unsure where to begin.
At the basic level, most schools provide three distinct families of instruments from which students can choose.
A good place to begin is determining what category of instrument may suit them best — and there are multiple things to consider for each category. Keep reading for more tips.
Understanding the Choices of Band Instruments To Play
There are many options of instruments to play in a band, and you do not have to choose just one.
You may find that after playing one instrument for a length of time you’d like the challenge of trying to play another one with a higher level of difficulty in the same family of instruments. Or, you may want to expand your music knowledge and ability to another family of instruments.
Understanding how each family of instruments functions and the basic level of difficulty can aid in your ultimate success.
Be ready to invest time in practice and allow yourself grace as you learn a new skill.
Woodwinds
The instruments in this family all used to be made of wood, which gives them their name. Today, they are made of wood, metal, plastic or some combination.
Woodwinds are narrow cylinders or pipes with holes and an opening at the bottom end and a mouthpiece at the top. You play them by blowing air through the mouthpiece – that’s the “wind” in “woodwind” — and then opening or closing the holes with your fingers to change the pitch.
Metal caps called keys cover the holes of most woodwind instruments.
The woodwind family of instruments includes (from the highest sounding instruments to the lowest):
- Piccolo
- Flute
- Oboe
- English horn
- Clarinet
- E-flat clarinet
- Bass clarinet
- Saxophone
- Bassoon
- Contrabassoon
The mouthpieces for some woodwinds, including the clarinet, oboe, and bassoon, use a thin piece of wood called a reed, which vibrates when you blow across it.
The clarinet uses a single reed made of one piece of wood, while the oboe and bassoon use a double reed made of two pieces joined together.
Smaller-sized woodwinds play higher pitches while the longer and larger instruments play the lower notes.
Woodwind pros:
- They are generally easy to carry due to their smaller size when in cases.
- Woodwinds are relatively inexpensive to rent.
Woodwind cons:
- The flute is the most difficult to learn as a beginner.
- Supplies can be expensive for instruments that require reeds, such as the oboe and clarinet.
- Sometimes students’ hands or fingers are not large enough to cover the spread of the holes/keys on the instrument.
Brass
The family of brass obtained their name just because of the material of which they’re made — brass.
The early models of these instruments were made of wood, tusks, animal horns or shells, but the modern versions are made entirely of brass.
Simply stated, brass instruments are long pipes that widen at their ends into a bell-like shape. However, instead of being just a long pipe, the structure is curved into different shapes which makes them easier to handle, play, and produce a rich sound.
Brass players also use their breath to produce sound like the woodwind family, but instead of blowing onto a reed, your lips vibrate against a metal cup-shaped mouthpiece. The mouthpiece helps to amplify the buzzing of the lips, which then creates the sound. This family of instruments packs a big punch as far as volume!
Most brass instruments have valves attached to their long pipes which have a button-like appearance. When you press down on the valves, they open and close different parts of the pipe. The pitch and sound are created by pressing different valves and simultaneously making your lips more soft or firm.
The brass family members that are most commonly used in a band include:
- Trumpet
- French horn
- Trombone
- Tuba
- Baritone
New students or younger children may have difficulty handling brass instruments due to the weight of the instrument. It would be wise to consult the band instructor for the lighter or smaller versions of some brass instruments for the beginner levels. For example, a petite student may become frustrated with learning their instrument if their first choice is the heavy and bulky tuba.
Brass pros:
- Brass instruments are relatively inexpensive to rent.
- The trombone and baritone are low-brass instruments and play an important role in a band.
Brass cons:
- Students who have or plan to wear braces may want to consider an instrument other than the trumpet, as it may be painful to play.
- The larger brass instruments tend to be bulky and difficult to transport.
- Some of the brass instruments are expensive to rent or purchase.
Percussion
The percussion family is large and provides many options in a band.
Percussion instruments are any instruments that produce sound when hit, shaken, or scraped. While these instruments may appear easy to play, but they can be challenging.
Practice for playing percussion instruments includes learning to strike the instrument with the precise amount of strength, at the right place, and with the correct rhythm.
Additionally, some think the percussion family is just an array of drums and cymbals, but this group also includes instruments such as the xylophone, timpani, and piano.
Percussion instruments may add much expression to a musical piece, such as:
- Keeping the rhythm
- Adding extra sounds other instrument groups cannot replicate
- Adding volume or excitement
- Producing feelings of anticipation
- Adding to the color of the musical piece
Unique to this musical family, a percussionist may play several different instruments in one piece of music. For example, a percussionist may be responsible for playing a snare drum, cymbals, and triangle during one song, while a flutist will strictly play the flute.
Depending on the type of band, all percussion instruments will not be included, some due to sheer size and portability — you will not find a piano in a marching band but may see a xylophone.
The percussion family of instruments includes:
- Snare drum
- Bass drum
- Tambourine
- Maracas
- Gongs
- Chimes
- Piano
- Timpani
- Xylophone
- Triangle
- Cymbals
Percussion pros:
- These instruments are very important to a variety of band genres.
Percussion cons:
- Percussion students should expect to learn drums and keyboard mallet instruments.
- Rental or purchase of the instruments at higher levels of music education can be expensive.
- Percussion requires focused attention and concentration; it may not be ideal for all students.
How Do I Choose a Band Instrument To Play? 9 Things To Consider
Choosing the first instrument to play can be a complex path but very important to consider.
First of all, ask your child which instrument they would prefer. Nothing will hinder your child’s musical development more than not including them in the decision. Motivation can be the make-or-break factor for beginning instrumentalists.
Whether your child is choosing an instrument for band, orchestra, or their personal development, there are a myriad of choices, and there is no wrong answer.
#1: Instrument Size
The actual size of the instrument may be a factor in the success of your student.
While the size of the student and the size of the instrument aren’t necessarily a deal-breaker, they can present some challenges in learning to play the instrument well.
Students can get frustrated if they are trying to learn an instrument that is intended for an adult, especially if they are of smaller stature.
As band rookies, some children may simply not be big enough yet for certain instruments, and this can result in tension, fatigue, and even physical strain injuries from repetitive movements. Frustration will also build if students truly are routinely practicing and are unable to physically reach keys or hold the instrument appropriately.
Quality music stores will assist you in determining a student’s suitability for a specific instrument. Request assistance from your musical director or local music store before jumping into a large purchase or rental.
#2: How the Instrument Is Played and Put Together
Some instruments may be more time-consuming to keep clean and maintain.
Students must be willing to take the time to properly clean and dry the instruments after use, particularly woodwinds and brass instruments.
To maintain your instrument and keep the beautiful sound consistent, it is necessary to perform routine maintenance on it. Items such as reeds, keys, and mouthpieces are all vital areas that need consistent care and attention.
Be sure that when you are choosing your new band instrument you understand the necessary steps to care for your investment.
#3: Instrument Sound
Of course, all instruments make sounds, but what type of sound would be preferred by your student?
Are the drums a good match with high volume, rhythmic beats, and an air of importance? Or is the sweet and melodious sound of the flute or piccolo more fitted to their personality? Or do they just love the sound of a particular instrument?
These questions are important factors to consider for your student to fall in love with their instrument.
#4: Genre of Choice
Certain types of music, or genres, will have instruments that are more suited for that particular type of music. For example, classical music does not usually include many drums. Adversely, rock music does not often utilize brass instruments.
Conversations with your student about their taste in music, goals, and aspirations may also play a key factor in choosing the correct instrument for them to begin their musical journey.
#5: Difficulty
Some instruments may be harder than others to learn.
In the brass family, the French horn can present some challenges, as the instrument’s design, how to hold it, and the wide note range all contribute to its complexity. Additionally, the trombone can be difficult to learn and play notes, as there are slide positions instead of keys on this instrument.
Percussionists can anticipate learning a variety of instruments in a band, as they may be expected to play numerous instruments within one musical piece.
Regardless of difficulty, do not be shy in learning an instrument of your choosing. Consult Northwest School of Music to not only help you select a band instrument but help you begin your musical journey!
#6: Cost
If you are shopping as a new or beginner-level student, you may be tempted to rent until you decide you love the instrument and want to continue the commitment to practice and play.
Renting vs. buying and factors to consider:
- Renting may be a good option for a younger student who is not sure of their initial commitment or passion.
- Long-term rental fees may add up quickly. An entry-level student instrument might be purchased for less than the cost of the year’s rental. Many shops offer a rent-to-own option for financing the instrument.
- A carefully chosen student instrument that is properly maintained will retain its value. The instrument can then be resold for a sizable portion of the purchase price if traded for a higher-quality instrument in the future.
- Rental instruments may have wear and tear, evident with dents and scratches. Additionally, you are more than likely liable for any damage to a rented instrument.
- Used instruments may need some repairs prior to play, such as replacing the pads under the keys.
- Learning is much easier on a properly maintained instrument rather than one that is in disrepair.
If you are fortunate to know someone with an instrument they are not currently using, an agreement could also be made to borrow the instrument.
#7: Goals
While considering what instrument your student should pursue, you need to consider their ultimate goals.
Consider the following questions:
- How much time will they dedicate to practicing?
- Will they get frustrated with a more difficult instrument to learn, or will they persevere to achieve success?
- Do they want to play individually or in a group/band setting?
- Do they want to pursue just one instrument in particular, or are they open to learning multiple instruments?
By directly involving the student in choosing the instrument, you can learn which instruments may be good matches to align with their personal goals.
#8: Popularity
Of course, some instruments will tend to be more popular to play, with piano, drums, and violins ranking high on the list.
However, popularity is not always a good thing, as we know. In the case of band instruments, there needs to be a balance of all instruments.
Ten drummers, two clarinets, and four trumpets would not make a very acoustically appealing sound — students who are willing to learn a less popular instrument may be very helpful in balancing the band.
#9: Enjoyment and Interest
As with any activity or hobby, students tend to keep practicing and participating in activities which they enjoy, and learning an instrument is no different.
The goal is to find the best match for them so their interest grows into a lifelong love for the instrument and music.
When Should You Choose a Band Instrument To Play?
Many elementary schools will offer music lessons beginning in the fourth or fifth grades, with the anticipation of formal bands forming in the middle school years.
While introducing students to music and band during these years helps develop them as well-rounded students, they do not have to wait until then to begin playing an instrument!
Northwest School of Music offers music programs for all ages — beginning as early as 3 years old and into all ages of adulthood.
Strike Up the Band! Let Northwest School of Music Help You Choose a Band Instrument and Learn How To Play With Our Skilled Instructors
Bring your passion for learning a new skill in music or a new instrument to Northwest School of Music!
But why Northwest School of Music, and what sets it apart as an essential piece of your musical journey, you ask?
- Northwest School of Music offers lessons for learners of all ages.
- Quality music instruction is provided by experienced and trained teachers.
- We work to carefully match our students with the best fit of a faculty member who will then design a music program tailored to each student’s needs.
- Parents are encouraged and welcome to attend the lessons.
- Group sessions are limited in size for optimal instruction time.
- Specialized teachers are available for each instrument.
- Class times are conveniently available, including weekdays, evenings, and Saturdays.
- Performance and recital opportunities are offered throughout the year.
- Desk managers are available in the studio to assist you during the week.
Northwest School of Music was founded in 2006 with the mission to provide quality musical education for all ages. Since opening in 2006 in Salem, Oregon, the studio has grown to now provide lessons to over 200 students every week.
Our team of talented and skilled instructors provides the opportunity to connect with an ideal teacher for you to lead you on your musical journey.
Contact us today to pursue learning a new band instrument of your choice!
