What+Can+I+Play?

 ** What Instruments can I play? ** Download Handout - [|Instrumentssmall.pdf]
 * Flute **

The flute is the oldest woodwind instrument. It is played by blowing across the tone hole and depressing keys to change pitches. Because the initial sound is difficult to produce, your child must be able to get a sound on the head joint in order to select the flute. ** Clarinet **  The clarinet is a member of the woodwind family also. When air is blown into the clarinet, the reed vibrates against the mouthpiece, creating the clarinet sound. The alto and tenor saxophones are woodwind instruments. They produce a sound when air is directed into the mouthpiece. The reed vibrates against the mouthpiece and the player depresses keys to change pitches.  The cornet and trumpet are the highest pitched brass instruments. They are essentially the same. The largest difference is their shape. The sound is produced when the lips vibrate (buzz) together, sending the vibrating air through the instrument. The player uses valves to change pitches.  ** French Horn ** The french horn is another brass instrument. It is a more difficult instrument to play, because the pitches are so much closer together, that it requires a person be able to sing well and hear pitches accurately. If your determined and want a challenge, you may want to consider this instrument! The double horn is useful because the higher tones are easier to produce with the Bb side. The french horn produces a sound in the same way as the trumpet, and the player uses valves (rotary) to change pitches.  **Trombone**
 * Saxophone **
 * Trumpet **

 The trombone is a member of the low brass family. A trombone player produces a sound in the same way as the trumpet player. However, a trombonist changes pitches using a slide. The trombone is another instrument that requires a good ear.
 * Baritone **

 The baritone is another low brass instrument. Sound is produced in the same way as the other brass instruments, and the player uses valves to change pitches. A music department is __always__ in need of low brass players!
 * Tuba! **

 The tuba is the bass of the band! It is also a brass instrument and is played like the baritone. If you are considering tuba, it is suggested that you first begin on the baritone and switch to the tuba at a later date.
 * Percussion **

The percussionist plays all of the instruments in the percussion family, including bells and snare. Students who do not have drums at home must purchase either a percussion kit or practice pad/stand kit.