BUYING AN INSTRUMENT:
There are several options for purchasing an instrument. Please contact me or call a local music store (listed at the bottom) if you want help purchasing an instrument. Please do not buy used or under-priced instruments online. Be cautious of buying colored instruments. A low quality instrument usually causes a student to become frustrated and quit.
Buying a Used Instrument
It is possible to find a decent used instrument online, a yard sale, or at a music store. If you go this route, look for a brand name instrument. Also, be aware that you should have any used instrument professionally cleaned before your child plays it. Woodwind instruments (flutes, clarinet, saxophones) usually need to be "repadded" before they can play well. This can cost between $200-300. Volkwein's has a trustworthy repair department. Brass instruments can be chemically cleaned, which is around $100. If you would like for Volkwein's to take a look at a used instrument you can give the instrument to me and I will give it to a Volkwein's sales representative.
Recommended Brands
Jupiter JTR700
Pearl PL910C
Pearl PK910C
Yamaha SBK350
*Students that purchase an instrument will still need a method book & instrument care accessories. You can purchase these at the school. More information here: instrument overview
Buying a Used Instrument
It is possible to find a decent used instrument online, a yard sale, or at a music store. If you go this route, look for a brand name instrument. Also, be aware that you should have any used instrument professionally cleaned before your child plays it. Woodwind instruments (flutes, clarinet, saxophones) usually need to be "repadded" before they can play well. This can cost between $200-300. Volkwein's has a trustworthy repair department. Brass instruments can be chemically cleaned, which is around $100. If you would like for Volkwein's to take a look at a used instrument you can give the instrument to me and I will give it to a Volkwein's sales representative.
Recommended Brands
- Flute: Gemeinhart, Jupiter, Yamaha
- Bb (B flat) Clarinet: Buffett, Jupiter, Yamaha
- Eb (E flat) Alto Saxophone: Jupiter, Yamaha
- French Horn: Jupiter, Yamaha
- Bb (B flat) Trumpet: King, Jupiter, Yamaha
Jupiter JTR700
- Trombone: Jupiter, Yamaha
- Euphonium: Jupiter, Yamaha
- Percussion Combo Kit (includes bells & practice pad): Innovative Percussion, Pearl, Vic Firth, Yamaha
Pearl PL910C
Pearl PK910C
Yamaha SBK350
*Students that purchase an instrument will still need a method book & instrument care accessories. You can purchase these at the school. More information here: instrument overview
INSTRUMENT REPAIRS
Family Owned Instrument:
- I would recommend using the Volkwein's Music Store (800-553-8742 or www.volkweinsmusic.com). Volkwein's sends a sales representative to CHES once a week. If you would like Volkwein's to repair your instrument, give it to Mrs. Kemerer & she will send it to Volkwein's. Put a note in the case that includes your contact information. Volkwein's will contact you before doing any repairs and you will be able to pay over the phone. (Please note: Music stores are swamped with repairs in the early fall. If possible, try to get your instrument repaired over the summer.)
- If you are renting an instrument from CHES that needs repaired, please give it to Mrs. Kemerer. Do not try to repair the instrument yourself.
LOCAL MUSIC STORES
Volkwein's Music Store, Pittsburgh
138 Industry Drive
Pittsburgh, PA 15275
800-553-8742
The Bandman, Altoona
5828 Ohio Avenue
Altoona, PA 16602
814-942-7625
bandman.biz
Allegro Band Instruments, Sidman
1052 Frankstown Road
Sidman, PA 15955
814-495-7201
138 Industry Drive
Pittsburgh, PA 15275
800-553-8742
The Bandman, Altoona
5828 Ohio Avenue
Altoona, PA 16602
814-942-7625
bandman.biz
Allegro Band Instruments, Sidman
1052 Frankstown Road
Sidman, PA 15955
814-495-7201