Welcome to the Transfer Instruments page!
Your rising 7th grader is considering a possible change of instruments. In order to perform the advanced music our groups perform, "transfer" instruments (oboe, bassoon, bass clarinet, French horn, baritone, tuba) are added to the band to balance and color the sound. Transfer instruments are school-owned instruments that are used without cost to the student. The student is expected to maintain the instrument in proper playing condition (providing for any minor repairs) and to buy all reeds, oils, or greases that may be necessary for the use of the instrument.
Selected students will be given the opportunity to transfer to another instrument. We will try to help your child make the correct choice and will not make a change without the agreement of the student and the parent. For those students selected to change instruments, beginning instruction will be provided during our Summer Band Camp (see dates on the attached form). Transfer instrument selection is done on an individual basis and includes the following considerations:
*The total band enrollment and instrumentation.
*The student’s demonstrated diligence and dedication to our band program.
*The student’s availability to attend Summer Band
*The enrollment and instrumentation of the high school band programs.
*The number of students playing each instrument.
*The student's academic standing.
*The number of transfer instruments available.
*The student's physical characteristics (e.g. large enough to play a tuba?).
With the above considerations in mind, not every interested child will be selected to play a transfer instrument. (We also need outstanding flute, clarinet, sax, trumpet, and trombone players!) If you wish for your child to be considered for a transfer instrument, please complete the attached form and return it as soon as possible. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. Thank you for your continued support.
The oboe is a beautiful double reed instrument known for its clear, expressive sound. Oboists often play important melodic lines and solos. Students who switch to oboe will receive individual attention at Summer Band to learn the reed, embouchure, and fingerings. Oboists are always in demand in bands, orchestras, and honor groups!
The bassoon is the tenor voice of the woodwind family with a rich, warm sound. It adds depth and character to the band. Bassoon players get individual attention at Summer Band and extra training to master the double reed, large size, and unique fingerings. Bassoonists are rare and highly valued!
The bass clarinet plays deep, velvety tones and supports the low woodwind section. It uses familiar clarinet fingerings but sounds an octave lower. Bass clarinetists help anchor the woodwinds’ sound and often get fun solo moments!
The baritone, or euphonium, has a mellow, lyrical sound that bridges the gap between low brass and woodwinds. It’s a great switch for trumpet or trombone players and offers many solo and ensemble opportunities. Baritone players often become section leaders!
The French horn has a beautiful, noble tone and plays both melody and harmony. Switching to horn means learning a new mouthpiece and fingerings, but your trumpet background will help! French horn players will receive individual attention at Summer Band.
The tuba is the foundation of the band, providing the deep bass that holds everything together. Tubists get to shape the band’s sound and are in huge demand for school bands, honor bands, and beyond. This is a fantastic switch for strong trombone players! Tuba players will receive individual attention at Summer Band.