Instrument Switching Guide

Why should I switch?

There are several reasons to consider switching instruments:

You play a common instrument. While we do need common instruments like the alto saxophone in band, we tend to have a large amount of them. Switching to a less common instrument would help balance the ensemble. Plus, playing a less common instrument means you don't have to rent a company. We provide most uncommon instruments for absolutely free!

You are coming from Orchestra/Choir. String instruments and vocal parts are not part of the traditional concert band (with the exception being the double bass). If you sign up for a concert band and intend to play violin, viola, cello, or sing, there will not be any parts for you. Don't worry, we will teach you a new one! All the musicianship skills transfer over from Orchestra and Choir.

You want a challenge. Some uncommon instrument provide a particular challenge for the average band students. However, they also can provide unique rewards and experiences. For instance, the French Horn has a steep learning curve. But once you gain the hand of it, auditioned groups such as Wind Ensemble has significantly less competition than, say, the trumpet. There are even some instruments that could get you a scholarship in college, such as the Bassoon!

You want to double. Knowing a second instrument can very useful. If you are planning on playing in more than one ensemble, we highly suggest it. For instance, the clarinet is only played in a handful of jazz pieces. Switching to the tenor saxophone allows for you to participate in jazz band and the switch is relatively easy.

What instruments should I switch to?

Below is an entire list of all the recommended instruments to switch to. Here are some general rules:

Orchestra/Choir: Learning a wind instrument is probably hardest switch. It is certainly possible, but consider learning percussion before taking the leap into woodwinds or brass.
Percussionists: Just like choir, learning a brass or woodwind instrument is difficult, mostly for reason that it requires you to use air in a way you've never used it before. Consult a director before deciding on your switch.
Woodwinds/Brass: If you are switching an instrument, it is recommended to stay within the same family. Not only is the switch very difficult, it can mess up your embouchure. Woodwind players should switch to woodwinds and brass should switch to brass. If you really want to play something from the opposite family, consult a director.
Flautists: You get your own section. Switching to any woodwind instrument is a challenge due to learning play a reed instrument. While the fingering system is pretty much the same, the air support and embouchure can be tricky to figure out at first. You might notice the "hard difficulty" marker for almost all woodwind switches. That is there to remind you of how much you have to adjust. However, once you get it, it transfers for all other woodwind instruments.

I have outlined the difficult level of each switch for you reference. Note this how difficult the switch would be, not necessarily how easy the instrument is to learn.