Recommended/Expected InstrumentSupplies

All instruments should be from a reputable manufacturer and should be in good working condition. Please check with Mr. Gowman before making any instrument purchase or rental.
 

Woodwinds

  • Reed players should purchase a complete box of reeds; there should be at least three good reeds available to the student at all times. See the list below for recommended reeds.
  • I strongly recommend upgrade mouthpieces for reed players: the VanDoren B45 for clarinets and the Selmer C* for saxes. These mouthpieces can be purchased at a discounted rate through the school.
  • Just like an automobile, a woodwind instrument will occasionally need a complete tune-up to tighten springs, replace pads, fix key alignment, etc.  All woodwinds will occasionally need minor work, and this does not indicate mistreatment of the instrument.
  • All corks should be in good condition and the instrument should be able to be easily assembled.
  • Most method books and solo literature are provided on loan from the school.
  • Recommended Reed Brands (from top to bottom by preference)
    1. Mitchell Lurie (clarinet only)
    2. VanDoren
    3. LaVoz
    4. Rico Royal

Percussion

  • All percussionists need to have two pair of Vic Firth 2B or 2B-nylon sticks in good condition. All other mallets and percussion accessories are provided by the school.
  • Most method books and solo literature are provided on loan from the school.
     

Brass

  • Instruments should be free of all major dents, all slides should move freely and easily, and valves should move down and up very quickly.
  • The mouthpiece that comes with any brass instrument is typically not of an appropriate size or design for the student to be most successful. Mr. Gowman will make a recommendation if a different mouthpiece would be more appropriate.
  • Most method books and solo literature are provided on loan from the school.