This is probably the most asked question we receive, and a concern you likely have. It's important to make a quality decision regarding your student's instrument; bad decisions will lead to student frustration and wasted money. Trust us when we say the cheap online instrument is not worth it. Rent-to-own - This is what the majority of families do and we highly recommend it because you'll get a quality instrument at a reasonable price. You'll pay month to month for about 2 years. It's really easy and free to change an instrument or size (violin, viola, cello, bass). The vendors provide repair services (often at no cost or through an insurance contract) if something breaks. If you are interested in more specific prices, please see their websites. The Loft Violin Shop (string instruments) Pellegrino Music (woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments) Already-own - Please have a director or a music vendor check it out. It may be the wrong size or need repairs/replacement parts to work properly. Please talk with a director before buying an instrument at a garage sale or online. If affordability is a concern, our school-owned instruments are your best choice. School-owned - We have several instruments that can go to families that need financial assistance. There is a small yearly rental to use these instruments. Please contact a director for more information.

No, the middle school is scheduled in class periods. Music falls into one of "unified arts" periods of the school day schedule.

No, students can do both because music happens during school and extra-curriculars happen after school! We believe that music, sports, and clubs educate the whole child and we want them to participate!

Yes, foreign language is a 9 week "unified arts" class in 6th grade. There are two "unified arts" periods in the day. One of those periods will be band/choir/orchestra for the entire year. The other period will be filled with 3-4 quarterly/semester classes like art, physical education, STEM, family and consumer science, vocational agriculture, career connections, and foreign language. Please note that 6th Grade is the only year to start an instrument.

Yes, you can do both choir and band/orchestra, but it will fill up both of your "unified arts" periods for the entire year. We recommend taking only one performance ensemble if you also want to take art, physical education, STEM, family and consumer science, vocational agriculture, career connections, or foreign language.

Mount Vernon City Schools begins instrument classes in 6th grade. Starting in later grades becomes increasingly difficult because you miss out on fundamental learning. We highly recommend to start now if you are interested in learning an instrument.

You can join choir in any grade!