Frequently Asked Questions

What if I have my own instrument? Do I still have to rent one?

It is very important to play good quality instrument to be a successful musician. If you have an instrument that is in excellent condition, please feel free to use it. However, there are two advantages to the Goulet & Co."rent to own" program. One, you are playing on an instrument in perfect condition. This is imperative for learning proper technique. Second, if anything breaks, Mr. Goulet stops by every Friday to fix and repair. Most of the time he is able to repair it on the spot. You don't have to miss any lessons or practice time. Most music store repairs take several weeks.

What supplies do I need?

Flutes: cleaning rod with lint-free cloth to clean the moisture inside the flute after each playing section

Clarinets and Saxophones: Buy about 6-8 reeds to have on hand. Beginners use size 1-1/2 and then size 2. Advanced players can buy size 2-1/2. (They crack quite easily, so it is best to purchase a bunch when you get to the music store.)

Trumpets: Valve Oil (I recommend "Al Cass Fast" Brand.) and Slide Grease - Periodically grease each of the four slides so they don't freeze in place.

Trombones: Slide Grease

Where can I get the supplies?

Music Unlimited in Kingston (Cranberry Crossing)

I am very busy during the week. Do I need to play the instrument at home?
Practicing a little bit every day will help you develop the skills necessary to enjoy being a musician. All the wind and brass players are developing their embouchure (mouth position). Muscle development takes daily exercise. (Drummers and bell players are developing hand technique.) I recommend about 5-10 minutes of playing almost every day for beginners. Advanced students should play a least 20 minutes a day. It is worth it. The more you play, the better you play, and the more fun it is to play.

Parents often ask how they can help.
You can be of great help to your child as he/she develops the discipline of practice. Make it a routine. Perhaps practice can be after homework or before school. If your child has a heavy homework load, taking a practice break can be a wonderful change of pace. Your child gets to practice and goes back to the homework fresh and ready to concentrate.

Sit and listen to the practice session whenever possible. Positive reinforcement is very encouraging. Gentle reminders may be all that is necessary during a hectic week. Keeping a practice chart on the refrigerator serves as a good reminder. Buy a stand for the instrument and keep it in the corner of the bedroom. When your child sees the instrument, he/she will remember to play.

You should not have to demand that your child practice. Gently encouragement should be all that is necessary. If you find that practice is a problem or has become a chore, please feel free to contact me. It might be a sign that your child is either losing interest or confused about the lesson. Please let me know.