Q: What will band & orchestra lessons look like during the school year?

A: Each beginning musicians receives one 30 minute group lesson each 6 day cycle which occurs in the school day. Musicians will need to practice their instrument outside of school at home to develop their skills and to learn new songs! Concerts take place outside of the school day (on a weekday evening). You will receive welcome information and specifics from your child's instrumental music teacher at the beginning of the school year. The PV Music Department espouses the whole child philosophy: we understand and encourage students to be involved in many activities in and out of school. The format of our program facilitates student participation in music & sports/music & dance, etc. and is aligned with academic rigor. 

 

Q: When should I rent an instrument?

A: 3 Steps:
1. Choose which instrument you would like to play.

2. Click the appropriate form below to sign up for that instrument. 

3. Acquire a quality instrument, method books, and music stand. Zeswitz Music is our trusted vendor of choice for 40+ years.  Click here to rent from Zeswitz Music. (Or the vendor of your choice)

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Q: How much does it cost to rent an instrument from Zeswitz Music?

A: Depends on which instrument, see below. (Prices are from the 21-22 School Year; may change slightly from year to year)

All prices listed below cover an entire period (These prices are NOT the cost per month).

​Orchestra/Stringed Instruments: (1 time payment pays for the first two months after delivery date)

• Violin/Viola: $29.98 (Introductory Period/First 2 Months, includes maintenance)

                             $21.98 (Monthly payment 3rd month forward, includes maintenance)

• Cello: $59.98 (Introductory Period/First 2 Months, includes maintenance)

                  $29.98 (Monthly payment 3rd month forward, includes maintenance)

• String Bass:$129.98 (Introductory Period/First 2 Months, includes maintenance)

                            $51.98 (Monthly payment 3rd month forward, includes maintenance)

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Band Instruments: (1 time payment pays for the first two months after delivery date)

• Flute, Clarinet, Trumpet, Trombone, Bell Kit: $24.99 (Introductory Period/First 2 Months, includes maintenance)                                                                                               $38.98 (Monthly payment 3rd month forward, includes maintenance)

• Alto Saxophone, Baritone, Oboe: $44.99 (Introductory Period/First 2 Months, includes maintenance)

                                                               $49.98 (Monthly payment 3rd month forward, includes maintenance)

• French Horn: $64.99 (Introductory Period/First 2 Months, includes maintenance)

                              $72.98 (Monthly payment 3rd month forward, includes maintenance)

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Q:Do I have to go to the Zeswitz Music Store...?

A: No! Zeswitz Music sends representatives to every Perkiomen Valley School every week to save you the trip!

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Q:What size stringed instrument (Violin/Viola/Cello/Bass) does my child need?

A: https://www.zeswitzmusic.com/string-sizing-guide

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Q: What method (music) books does my child need?

A: Method books needed for orchestra/band are listed with the rental information through Zeswitz Music. The book for orchestra/strings is "Essential Elements for Strings Book 1" and can be purchased through Zeswitz Music. The book for percussion/bell kit is "Essential Elements Book 1 for Percussion" & for all other band instruments are "Essential Elements Book 1."

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Q: Do we have to purchase a music stand?

A: If you already own one at home, no. If you do not own one it is highly encouraged that you purchase one to assist your student in playing while reading music comfortably & with good posture. 

Zeswitz Music sells music stands for $17.95.

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Q: When do lessons start?

A: As soon as possible! You will be contacted by your child's instrumental music teacher. 

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Q: What if I own the instrument my child wishes to learn?

A: Contact your child's instrumental music teacher so they can help you determine if the instrument is in working order & the right size. Every teacher will ask you if the instrument has been played in the last 6 months. If it has not been played in the past 6 months, it will need to be assessed by an instrument repair shop.

Please note, if the instrument you own is satisfactory for your child to use, you will still need to purchase the method (music) books for your child. Contact Zeswitz Music to purchase the correct method books.

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Q: Why should I rent instead of buy?

A. Instruments purchased online are typically of poor quality and setup, and cause both students, families, and teachers alike stress. This often leads to discouraged students. Renting provides students with a quality instrument and the reassurance that any repairs are covered (repairs on owned instruments can be costly). Rented stringed instruments can easily be exchanged at no extra cost for a larger or smaller size as needed!

See this page for additional information: https://www.musicrecruitment.com/for-parents

Consider: “Would you make your child run a 5k in sandals and tell them they only get sneakers if they do well?”

Parent Testimonial: "Our family has had a great experience with Zeswitz!  The rental process was seamless.  We needed a replacement instrument during the year, and they shipped it immediately, without question, right to our home.  Their customer service is wonderful!  We highly recommend Zeswitz for all of your instrument needs." -A.K.

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Q: My question was not answered here, who do I contact?

A: See our "Contact Us" page to determine which instrumental music teacher can best answer your question. We are happy to help you!

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Q: What information can you provide about Health & Safety measures in music ensembles?

A: We follow the health and safety guidelines provided by the Perkiomen Valley School District as approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, in conjunction with recommendations published by the CDC and confirmed by the International Coalition Performing Arts Aerosol Study.

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