BIDE Academy

Choose your sound

Instrument Explorer

Not sure what to play? Read about each instrument here — then come try every single one of them at the Band Instrument Discovery Experience on August 20, 2026.

You will get to hold, hear and play these instruments in person before you choose.

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  • Woodwind

    Flute

    The flute floats on top of the band with a bright, silvery sound. You make the sound by blowing across the mouthpiece, kind of like blowing over a soda bottle. It is light, easy to carry, and gets a lot of the melody.

    Good fit if you like being in the spotlight and playing melodies.

    Beginner friendly
  • Woodwind

    Clarinet

    The clarinet has a warm, smooth voice and can play higher and lower than almost anything else in the band. It uses a reed that buzzes when you blow. Clarinet players are the backbone of the woodwind section.

    Good fit if you like a rich sound and being part of a big team.

    Beginner friendly
  • Woodwind

    Saxophone

    The saxophone is loud, cool, and full of attitude. It is made of brass but plays with a reed, so it can wail in jazz or blend in concert band. Everyone notices a great sax solo.

    Good fit if you love jazz and want an instrument with personality.

    Beginner friendly
  • Brass

    Trumpet

    The trumpet cuts through everything. Three valves, one buzzing mouthpiece, and a whole lot of power. Trumpets usually carry the tune and get the big heroic moments.

    Good fit if you are bold and want to be heard.

    Beginner friendly
  • Brass

    Trombone

    The trombone is the only instrument with a slide, so you can glide between notes. It has a huge, powerful sound and is a blast in pep band and jazz.

    Good fit if you have long arms and a great ear.

    Beginner friendly
  • Brass

    Euphonium / Baritone

    Think of it as a small tuba with a beautiful singing voice. The euphonium is one of the easiest brass instruments to get a good sound on, and directors love having strong players on it.

    Good fit if you want a warm sound and quick success.

    Beginner friendly
  • Brass

    Tuba

    The tuba is the foundation of the entire band. Without it, nothing sounds full. It is big, it is fun, and tuba players are always in demand — schools usually provide the instrument.

    Good fit if you like being the anchor everyone depends on.

    Beginner friendly
  • Percussion

    Percussion

    Percussionists play everything you can hit: snare drum, bass drum, cymbals, xylophone, timpani and more. You keep the whole band together, so counting is your superpower.

    Good fit if you have great rhythm and love variety.

    Beginner friendly