Student with rental instruments

Instrument Instruction

Did you know that Somerville Public Schools offers string and band instrument instruction at all Somerville schools? Instrument instruction is offered during XBlock. Students will develop skills, play music, record projects, and participate in other remote activities.

Instruction is FREE, but students will need an instrument for participating in class, practicing at home, and for performances. Students may rent an instrument and qualified students may borrow one of the instruments owned by the school music department. 

Strings Instruments

Violin, viola, cello, bass

  • Starts in 4th grade at the West Somerville Neighborhood School, the Kennedy School, the Argenziano School, the Healey School and Winter Hill Community Innovation School.
  • Starts in 3rd grade at the East Somerville Community School and the Brown School.

Renting an instrument

Information coming

Borrowing School instruments

If you qualify for free or reduced cost lunch in the Somerville Public Schools, then you are eligible to borrow a school instrument for the duration of the year. There is a one-time payment. You must sign a contract and assume responsibility for the instrument throughout the year. This program is only for your family if the cost of renting an instrument will stop your student from participating. Due to limited supply of certain instruments, first choice of instrument is not guaranteed. 

Questions about the Strings Program

Please email any of the string teachers with your questions: Mr Andrew Blickenderfer or Ms. Joanne Sadler.

 

Band and Percussion Instruments

Registration

Band classes have already been formed for the year and aren't taking new students right now. But if you wanted to join and couldn't make it this year, we'll look forward to seeing you again in the fall!

Alto Saxophone, Clarinet, Flute, Trumpet, Trombone, and Percussion (snare drum with a bell set) 

  • Starts in 5th grade at the East Somerville Community School, West Somerville Neighborhood School, and the Winter Hill Community Innovation School.
  • Trumpet and clarinet starts in 4th grade at the Argenziano School, Brown School, Kennedy School, and the Healey School.
  • Read more in the Band Program Handbook.

Renting an instrument

Students who need to rent a band instrument can do so through Needham Music. Please fill out the Needham Music form to start the band instrument rental process. 

Borrowing School instruments

If you qualify for free or reduced cost lunch in the Somerville Public Schools, then you are eligible to borrow a school instrument for the duration of the year. There is a one-time payment of $20 for clarinet, flute, trumpet, or trombone, $30 for alto saxophone, and $20 for a drum pad and sticks. You must sign a contract and assume responsibility for the instrument throughout the year. This program is only for your family if the cost of renting an instrument will stop your student from participating. Due to limited supply of certain instruments, first choice of instrument is not guaranteed. 

 

Questions about the Band Program

Please email any of the band teachers with your questions: Ms. Rosemary Sears or Jacob Gabriszeski.