Essential Elements for Band Book 1
French Horn players should have their own rotor oil (recommended brand)
Woodwind players need a box of 10 reeds (see below) and a silk swab.
Reeds - most commonly come in packs of 10. Please purchase a new box when the student has 2 left. Reeds come in different strengths (1-5). Most beginners start on 2 or 2.5. Most 7th grade students should be on 2.5's and may go up to a 3 by 8th grade. Recommended brand/type: Rico Royal (slightly better version of regular Rico). Other reed brands like Vandoren Traditional or Vandoren Java will work, but are typically for more advanced players looking for a specific sound.
Trombone players should purchase slide cream and a spray bottle.
Trumpet, baritone, and tuba players should have their own valve oil.
7th Grade Percussionists should purchase the following:
1 practice pad (Vic Firth 6” Single Sided Practice Pad)
1 pair of Vic Firth American Custom SD1 General
1 pair of Timpani Mallets
1 pair yarn marimba mallets
Essential Elements for Band Book 2
Brass and woodwind players should replace valve oil, cork grease, or swabs as needed
Reeds - same as above, but students may be stepping up to a higher reed strength
Percussionists should check with director if any additional sticks or mallets or needed
Essential Elements for Band Book 3
Brass and woodwind players should replace valve oil, cork grease, or swabs as needed
Reeds - same as above, but students may be stepping up to a higher reed strength
Percussionists should check with director if any additional sticks or mallets or needed
Marching related attire might need to be purchased depending on inventory such as shoes, gloves, socks, shirts
Updated June 2026