College Packing List: Musician Edition
As the next class of 2024 is preparing to begin college, you’ve probably seen quite a few articles out there about what to pack for school. These are wonderful resources for the first-time college-goer! (Dr. Thom’s list for designing a trendy dorm room is creative and functional.)
If you’re going to school for music, there’s a few other things to remember to pack.
For any instrument or music program, be sure to be in touch with your future private lesson teacher about what music to purchase, any specific supplies you might need for your instrument, or what to start working on in the summer before you begin (aka, NOW).
You should also double check that your instruments are insured, either on its own policy or under homeowner’s insurance. (As a violinist whose violin broke in college, this was a lifesaver in order to get a new instrument in time for the start of the next semester. Things happen–be prepared!)
String players (violin, viola, cello, bass, guitar):
Extra set of strings
New rosin
Make sure your rock stops are in good shape
Get your bows rehaired*
Get a practice mute (for the times you need to practice late at night in your dorm room)
Brass players (trumpet, trombone, French horn, euphonium, tuba):
Extra bottles of lubricants, slide grease, valve oil, etc.
If it’s been awhile, get your instrument professionally cleaned and tuned up.*
Woodwind players (oboe, clarinet, bassoon, saxophone, flute):
Extra boxes of reeds
Pad paper
Cork grease
Cleaning cloths and swabs
If it’s been awhile, get your instrument professionally cleaned and tuned up.*
*These services may take a few days to weeks to be done by a professional, depending on their work schedules. Don’t wait until the last minute to get this done!
Voice:
Lots of whatever warm liquid that soothes your throat and vocal cords!
Other things to consider investing in:
A new instrument case. If you only have a soft gig bag, it might be time to invest in a good hard case that will protect your instrument during move-in and while traveling.
String players: a second bow if you don’t have one already. It’s a great idea to have a back-up bow in case the first one breaks or is in the shop to be rehaired. I recommend a good carbon fiber bow that will give you a great sound while also being a durable, everyday bow.
You’ll likely get a list of textbooks you’ll need for music theory and music history classes, but also consider buying a notebook of blank staff paper to help you work through theory assignments (or to jot down those melodies that have been in your head!)
Finally, do a little research ahead of time about the music stores and instrument repair shops in the city you’re going to school–you might need supplies or music in a pinch. Your teacher may also have suggestions of reputable places in the area.
Make yourself a packing checklist to ensure you don’t forget anything, and have an amazing time in college!
P.S. - From personal experience, I know that moving to college for the first time can be scary, stressful, and exciting, not only for the student, but for parents as well. Try not to let these feelings project onto each other as you get settled in. Be sure to breathe deeply and build in some time in your schedule to relax and have some quality time with your family over a meal or a walk around the area. This is a time for students to become more independent and self-sufficient as young adults. Always remember, though, that mom, dad, and the rest of the family is only a phone call, text, or video chat away. <3
Here’s to a healthy, creative, and exciting voyage into college life,
Kate Bittner
