Required Materials:

• Instrument and bow in excellent playing condition
• Rosin and cleaning cloth
• Rock Stop (cellos and basses)
• Shoulder Rest (3/4 or smaller violins; 13″ or smaller violas)
• Shoulder Rest (Full-Size violins or 14″+ violas)
• Pencil and 1/2 inch three-ringed binder for music (with 25 sheet protectors)
• Essential Elements Book 1 2000(6th Grade)
• Essential Elements Book 2 2000(7th Grade)
• Habits of a Successful Middle Level String Musician(8th grade)

All students should rent an instrument until they are ready for a full-size instrument. It is recommended that once a students has grown into a full-size instrument, they purchase an intermediate or advanced level instrument.

​What to look for when choosing an instrument for rental or purchase:

• Size: String instruments come in various sizes. Students must be measured for the proper size instrument. You should not purchase an instrument that is less than “full-sized” as your child will grow out of it. If you rent an instrument, you will be able to trade instrument sizes as your child grows without an additional fee. A student should not play on an instrument too large for them; this will cause physical injuries, as well as difficulty learning the instrument.
• Color: Though colored instruments are fun, they are typically made of plastic or are coated with excess layers of paint/lacquer that diminishes the tone of the instrument. Stick with instruments that are made of natural wood, and are stained/lacquered naturally. Rock stops, shoulder rests, bows and bow hair come in different colors, and are a great way to add individuality to the instrument.
• Bows made of fiberglass or carbon fiber are recommended for middle school students. Do not be lured in by the “wood bows,” as they can warp and/or break easier than the “cheaper” carbon fiber bows.
• On-Line Purchases: If purchasing an instrument on-line, stick with websites that offer a refund and/or exchange policy if you are not happy with the quality of the instrument. Please see the recommended on-line retailer list before purchasing an instrument.
• As always, please be sure to contact your teacher before making any purchases, no matter how small they are. A quality instrument (including bow, rock stop and shoulder rest) is essential for a students musical growth.