• PCSD Beginning Orchestra Program

    Checklist of Required Musical Materials

    • A rented violin, viola, cello or bass: Please do not have your rented instrument “delivered” to school – it is VERY HARD to keep track of.
        • Each string on your instrument must have a working fine tuner (4 total).
        • This is very important so that our instruments can be tuned quickly and easily to maximize our lesson and rehearsal time.
        • Please ask for Wittner “Fine Tune” pegs – cellos only.
        • This will aid the teacher in quick tunnings and save wear-and-tear on hands.
        • These mechanisms on the bass are called “machines.”
      • If the school has enough cellos and basses, cello and bass players may use school instruments for lessons and rehearsals.
        • You must rent a cello or bass for individual practice at home.
        • Please be advised that school instruments might not be a “proper fit.”
        • You will need to bring your rented cello or bass into school the first week of lessons, so that tapes may be put on your fingerboard for proper left-hand finger placement.
        • The very best solution is to bring your rented instrument back-and-forth each week for lessons and rehearsals so that it can be kept in tune – just like the violins and violas.  If your instrument is out of tune, you will not be able to practice properly.
        • Please note: cellos and basses are not allowed on the school bus for safety reasons.
    • A sturdy nametag
      • A nametag is needed to identify your instrument.
      • Fill it out properly and place it securely on your case.
    • A bow hold “helper”
      • Cyrus pinky holder or
      • Stringvision Bowgrip for violins and violas
      • Rintara Wada for cellos (optional)
    • One “Kun” or  “Everest” shoulder-rest to fit your violin or viola
      • Shoulder-rests are for violins and violas only.  (Make sure to buy the correct size.)
      • All shoulder-rests must be carried separately, if there is not a special place in your case.
      • All violin and viola players will need a shoulder-rest for proper left-hand technique.
    • One folding-wire music stand
      • Folding stands are used at home for daily practice.
      • Mark your music stand with your name.
      • EVERYONE WILL NEED A FOLDING MUSIC STAND.
    • Cello & Bass players will need a rock-stop
      • Using this device will save wear-and-tear on your hardwood floors at home.
      • This is necessary so that your endpin will not slip and insures proper technique.
      • “Strap style” for cello and “hockey puck style” for bass
    • One cake of rosin
      • Violins, violas and cellos will need rosin – (any budget quality is fine!)
      • Bass players will need “POPS” rosin.
    • A cotton cloth (soft and clean)
      • Do not polish or clean your instrument with any type of polish or household cleaner.
    • An extra set of strings: violins and violas only