Onsite@… Programs

Band, Orchestra, Percussion FAQs

Why are there age restrictions for some ensembles?

Some instruments are very difficult (or impossible) to play until one reaches a certain physical size. Our age restrictions ensure that a child will almost certainly be big enough to play the instrument of their choice in that ensemble. String instruments can be smaller, whereas wind instruments do not come in smaller sizes because it would just make them harder to play as well as changing the notes and fingerings.

Orchestra lists electric bass. Do you mean electric bass like a guitar??

Yes!!! An exciting new trend in Elementary Orchestra programs is to allow kids to start playing bass on an electric bass, since upright basses are extremely large, expensive, and can be difficult to get repaired if damaged. An electric bass is a fun, easier, and more budget-friendly option for elementary kids, and the fingerings and skills they learn will translate directly if they decide to move to upright bass in middle school. (All they need to do is apply the same fingers to the upright bass and add the bow.) Electric bass students will use the Strictly Strings book for upright bass in Orchestra, playing pizzicato. We suggest younger students start on a mini or “short stack” bass. Electric basses are typically purchased rather than rented. Bass students will also need a small amp to use for at-home practice and a cable to bring to class. (Amp provided for rehearsals, but kids are welcome to bring their own.)

Which instruments will kids play in Percussion Ensemble?

Kids will play a variety of cool percussion instruments encompassing pitched and unpitched percussion, mallet percussion (xylophones, etc), Western and world drums, hand-held percussion instruments from around the world, resonator bars, boomwhackers, and fun creative options as well. Senior Percussion ensembles will also get a chance to work on Western classical percussion rudiments and a bit of drumset. Check out Niles’ video to learn more: Percussion Ensemble Video

My child would like to join band/orchestra but has never played the instrument before. Is that okay?

Absolutely!! Unless the ensemble is labelled “Advanced …” square-one beginners are welcome and encouraged. Our faculty is amazingly adept at getting kids up and running on their instrument. At-home practice and private lessons helps speed up anyone’s progress, of course, but no prior experience is necessary to join one of the ensembles (except those labelled “Advanced…”).

Where can I rent an instrument?

We partner with a national instrument company, NEMC, which provides very low-cost rentals that you order online and are shipped directly to you. Click here to be routed to their portal for pricing and ordering. If something needs repair, you send it back and they send a new one. This is the lowest-cost option (most instruments less than $30/month) and conveniently delivered to you. Other nice local options for rental are Music Village in San Jose, Park Avenue Music Center in Willow Glen, and Kumimoto Fine Strings in San Jose. The instruments from these stores are generally slightly more per month, but you have the convenience of in-person repairs.

Please note that electric basses are typically purchased rather than rented. (Upright basses are rented.) These instruments are available on Amazon, Guitar Center, or Music Village. We like the brands Fender, Ampeg, and Markbass. Your electric bass student will also need an amp to practice at home (it can be small) and a cable. These accessories are also available on Amazon or the local store options. Elementary school kids usually do best with a “mini” bass such as the Fender Mini Bass (Amazon), while bigger kids can use a full-size electric bass. Be sure your electric bass has 4 strings.