The start of a new school year brings plenty of excitement, along with a long checklist for families. If your student is joining band or orchestra for the first time, finding the right instrument is one of the biggest decisions you'll make.
At Chesbro Music Company, we've been helping students, parents, and music educators for generations. Whether your child is picking up a clarinet for their first concert, beginning violin lessons, or continuing with middle or high school ensembles, we're here to make the process straightforward.
From quality instrument rentals to one of the largest sheet music selections in the region, we offer the resources students need throughout the school year.
Why Renting Makes Sense for Beginning Band and Orchestra Students
For most families, renting is the best way to begin a musical journey.
Students are still discovering which instrument fits them best, and schools often have specific recommendations based on ensemble needs. Renting gives students access to a quality instrument without the larger upfront investment of purchasing one.
Our rental program is designed to provide dependable instruments that are ready for the classroom. Each instrument is professionally inspected and adjusted before it goes home with a student, giving beginners a better experience from the very first lesson.
A properly functioning instrument helps students focus on learning rather than fighting mechanical issues.
Choosing the Right Instrument
School music directors typically provide an approved instrument list before classes begin. Common beginning band instruments include:
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Flute
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Clarinet
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Alto saxophone
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Trumpet
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Trombone
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Baritone
Beginning orchestra students often choose:
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Violin
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Viola
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Cello
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String bass
If you're unsure which instrument your student needs, bring in the school supply list or class information. Our staff can help you select the correct size, accessories, and any additional materials recommended by your music teacher.
More Than Just an Instrument
Success in school music programs depends on having the right supplies.
Students often need items such as:
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Reeds
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Valve oil
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Slide grease
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Cleaning supplies
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Rosin
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Shoulder rests
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Music stands
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Method books
Having these items from the beginning helps students build good maintenance habits while avoiding unnecessary interruptions during practice.
Sheet Music That Supports Learning
One of the most overlooked resources for young musicians is having music to play outside of school assignments.
Our sheet music department includes materials for nearly every stage of learning, including:
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Beginning method books
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Solo collections
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Technique studies
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Scale books
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Holiday music
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Popular songs
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Classical repertoire
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Ensemble music
Many students become more motivated when they can practice music they already recognize alongside their classroom assignments.
Parents often ask what they can purchase after the required lesson book. Depending on the student's instrument and experience level, we can recommend music that matches their current abilities while introducing new skills at a comfortable pace.
Supporting Private Lessons and School Music Programs
Many students progress more quickly when school band or orchestra is combined with private instruction.
If your child is interested in taking lessons, we can help connect you with educational resources and materials that reinforce what they're learning in class.
Private lessons, consistent practice, and quality instructional materials create a strong foundation that benefits students throughout their musical education.
Don't Let Instrument Problems Slow Progress
Even well-maintained instruments occasionally need adjustments.
Broken machines, bent whammy bars, faulty electronics, broken strings, or loose bridges can quickly turn practice into frustration.
Our repair shop services musical instruments throughout the school year, helping students return to rehearsals and performances as quickly as possible.
Addressing small issues early often prevents larger repairs later and helps students continue developing without unnecessary interruptions.
Why Local Support Matters
Ordering an instrument online may seem convenient, but it doesn't provide the same level of service when questions or problems arise.
When you rent locally through Chesbro Music Company, you have access to experienced staff who can help with:
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Instrument selection
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Proper sizing
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Accessory recommendations
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Sheet music guidance
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Maintenance questions
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Repair services throughout the school year
As your student grows, we're here to help them move from beginning method books to more advanced repertoire, from their first rental instrument to future purchase decisions.
Preparing for a Successful School Year
The weeks before school starts are the busiest time for band and orchestra rentals. Getting started early gives your student time to become familiar with their instrument before the first day of class and helps avoid last-minute scheduling.
If your child is beginning band or orchestra this year, visit Chesbro Music Company with your school supply list. We'll help you find the right rental instrument, gather the required accessories, and recommend the sheet music and learning materials that will keep them progressing long after the first concert.
Whether this is your student's first year or they're returning for another season of music, we're proud to support music education in our community and look forward to helping your family have a successful school year.