We will not be able to provide nor rent out instruments for the 2013 summer session. We know our students will understand that for our first endeavor into this realm of the Irish arts, there's only so much we can do! However, we'd like to point you in the right direction for a proper instrument. The following recommendations are geared towards beginner instrumentalists or beginners in the folk realm, so these instruments are of entry level quality. Also, the prices below are for brand new instruments, so while that accordion might look super expensive, you might be able to find a cheaper used one! We will keep this page updated as we hear more about available folk instruments in the Indianapolis area.
Arthur's Music Store in Fountain Square has many of the instruments we will be teaching in stock. Please call them at (317) 638-3524 for availibility. If you have any other questions about instruments, feel free to get in touch with us through our Contact Us page.
Whistles
Students should bring whistles pitched in "D". Any brand will be fine for beginners. Whistles can be purchased at Arthur's Music Store for around $12.50.
A good option for an inexpensive, professional whistle is a Killarney Whistle, from Ireland. They cost €65.00, which is approximately $72. 00 + shipping.
Fiddles
Any working violin and bow will do just fine for our school. What's the difference between a fiddle and violin? About $1,000. Just kidding. The real answer is that a violin has strings and a fiddle's got strangs. (Translation: there isn't a difference...). Fiddles can be purchased at Arthur's Music Store for between $150 and $300.
Flutes
Students are welcome to use their classical (metal) flute for lessons and classes. Some fantastic traditional flute players even play on classical flutes! However, Irish flutes (wooden with zero to six keys) will make ornaments easier and our teachers will be teaching classes on this type of instrument. Arthur's Music Store sells reconditioned classical flutes for around $185. Entry level Irish flutes are between $300 and $600.
Tenor Banjos
There is a big difference between the bluegrass banjo and the Irish tenor banjo, which is what we will be teaching. Entry level tenor banjos are between $300 and $600.
Guitars
Our guitar students will need to bring acoustic guitars for classes and sessions - electric won't work! Entry level guitars can be purchased at Arthur's Music Store for between $100 and $350.
Celtic Harps
Our wonderful harp teacher, Jen Midkiff, has offered to rent two of her harps to students during the summer session. Please let us know if you're interested in this.
Piano Accordions
Piano accordions have piano keys on one side and buttons on the other. They're tricky for Irish music, but easier for pianists to pick up (as opposed to the button accordion). Entry level PAs cost between $600 and $900.
Button Accordions
Button accordions have buttons on both sides of the bellows. Traditionally, this is the type of accordion Irish folk musicians play. We offer classes on the "B/C" button accordion. Entry level button accordions cost between $600 and $900.
Concertinas
Concertinas come in many different keys, but we will be offering classes on the "C/G" Anglo concertina. Entry level concertinas cost between $300 and $450.
Bodhráns
We recommend visiting our bodhrán teacher's website (Brenda Sutton) for a ton of information about the instrument, where to purchase one, and how to play in a session.