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GETTING AN INSTRUMENT

Each orchestra student is expected to furnish his or her own instrument. This may be arranged as follows:

1) Instruments may be obtained through rental/purchase plans a several local music stores. When renting or buying an instrument, stay away from Larks and instruments made in the Republic of China. These are very poorly made instruments that will limit students' learning. Here is a list of recommended music stores with rental plans:

•  Zalivchii's Music Repair Shop- London Bridge Road- 631-8368
•  Flute Tooter- Larkspur Square Shopping Center; # 495-7339
•  Music and Arts Centers-1829 Lynnhaven Pwky, Suite 117; # 421-9300
•  Music and Arts- Fairfield Shopping Center (Kempsville and Providence); #495-0988

2) You may purchase a used instrument or use one that you already own. Should you do this, make sure the instrument is in good playing condition. Students who do not have working instruments- broken strings, etc. will be considered unprepared. If an instrument is in need of repair, students need to bring a note from a parent explaining what happened and when the repairs will be finished.

3) A few instruments are available for the students that play larger instruments. The bass and cello students will be able to borrow one instrument for home use and will share instruments at school. When Ms. Purdy or Mr. Bailey issues these, the student and parent will be asked to sign a contract. No instrument is to leave the building without a completed contract on file. Any excessive damage, refusal to maintain equipment, or use by another student may result in the student losing their privilege in using the school instrument.

INSTRUMENT IDENTIFICATION, STORAGE AND INSURANCE

All students are required to label their instrument cases with their name, address and school.  Luggage type tags work well.  Parents, please keep a record of the instrument type, manufacturer, model, and serial number so that accurate information is available in the event of theft or fire.

Lock storage is available for instruments in the band room or chorus room.  Please insist that your child keep their instrument in these rooms for the entire day and bring it home at night.  We have never had an instrument stolen from the band room, but several have disappeared from other areas of the building.