“INSTRUMENT PETTING ZOO”

Dear Future Band and String Students,

INSTRUMENT TESTING TIME is HERE! You are about to embark on a new and exciting musical journey and it is important to find the instrument that best fits you. Choosing an instrument to play is the exciting first step to learning music!

The Directors of Piedmont Music Academy will be available and ready to guide you through this process on the campus of Westminster Presbyterian Church on MAY 28, JULY 9, or our final one on AUGUST 6, 2026. You will have the opportunity to see, hear and try different instruments, meet our PMA music directors, and receive assistance with choosing the best instrument for you. VISIT the SIGNUP GENIUS to schedule an appointment.

SPECIFIC STRINGS INFO:

STRING FITTING: ALL Early Strings Students (new and returning) are encouraged to bring their string instrument to the fitting so that instructors can check the correct size, check strings, and check for a nice sound.


SPECIFIC BAND INFO:

  • NEW Students interested in band (at least 10 years old) must have at least one year of any music class (e.g., piano lessons, General Music w/Recorder or Ukulele, choir, private lessons on any instrument).
  • Pre-requisites for students 12 y.o.+ do not apply. Make an appointment at one of the Instrument Petting Zoo’s to meet with the directors.
  • First year band students will be able to take advantage of a FREE summer head-start session. Thursday, July 23, 2026 Mrs. Maxwell will invite all registered Beginning Band students to visit her at WPC to get a head-start on how to assemble their instrument, hold it correctly, and make those first sounds. (More information to come following the July Zoo.) Take advantage of this free session and feel more confident on your first day of class in August!
  • >>> PERCUSSION<<< NEW Beginning Band Students interested in playing percussion are required to attend an Instrument Petting Zoo in order to be considered for this instrument in Beginning Band. Band Directors will assess the student’s abilities in various areas: keeping a steady beat, stick coordination, basic treble clef note reading, etc.

(NOTE: If you register early but do not know yet which instrument your child will be learning, indicate “instrument unknown” on the form.)