Download FLUTE:

FLUTE: Students who wish to play flute need to be checked for a teardrop-shaped upper lip. It is very
difficult for these students to play flute because their air stream will be split into two different directions
as they attempt to blow across the tone hole. A very high level of frustration occurs at this point.
Students who are contemplating learning the flute also need to be aware that flute is the most
competitive instrument around because it is the most popular.
CLARINET: There are not many limitations for students who are considering clarinet. As long as the
student’s top front teeth are fairly straight and his/her bite is fairly even, success should be imminent.
Clarinet parts in junior high and high school usually split into two or three parts. Therefore, more
clarinets are needed in band than flutes or saxes.
BASS CLARINET: Bass clarinet is very similar to the clarinet except bigger and lower sounding. Bass
clarinets are crucial to the band because they add a very special tone quality that only a woodwind can
make.
ALTO SAXOPHONE: Once again, straight front teeth and an even bite are important for saxophone
players. Students who choose the alto saxophone need to be aware that this is a popular instrument
Competition is fierce in junior high and high school. Also, saxophones are not included in full orchestra.
They are however a staple in jazz band.
TENOR SAXOPHONE: This instrument is the bigger (lower) version of the alto sax. It is more
important in the band setting because of its lower pitch. Tenor sax is a good alternative to alto sax for a
student with larger hands.
TRUMPET: Generally speaking students with smaller front teeth and lips will do well on trumpet.
Students with front teeth that are larger or with bigger lips will experience difficulties with the high
range. Also, as is the case with all brass instruments, if a lot of a student’s gums are visible when he/she
smiles, difficulties mare occur.
TROMBONE: Trombone seems to be a mystery to many people. It is actually one of the most
successful instruments for just about anyone to learn to play. There are no limitations to who should
play trombone. Students with larger front teeth or lips who rule out the trumpet will be successful on the
trombone. Remember too, that the lower the instrument is, the more important it is to the balance of the
band.
BARITONE: Again, there are no limitations as to who should play the baritone. Often trumpet players
who struggle with the high notes switch to the baritone and are very successful.
TUBA: Okay. Are you ready? Tuba is by far the most important instrument in the band. Any band! The
great thing is that there are basically no limitations as to who can be a successful tuba player. Well,
maybe a parent who is willing to help transport the instrument would be helpful, but there are ways
around the transportation problem! Tuba players who become very good can pave their way just about
anywhere in the music world. Take the challenge!
PERCUSSION: Several factors should be considered when choosing to play percussion:
1. Students will learn all percussion instruments including snare drum, bass drum,
bells, and all accessory instruments.
2. Parents will find that it is more expensive than they originally planned as their
student progresses. Students will need various mallets for playing all the various
percussion instruments.
3. The world is full of people who think that they are drummers. A real percussionist is one who reads
music and is better disciplined than other members of the band.
4. A background in piano is recommended.