You are absolutely right that I would not want to get into a struggle over something like music class, particularly since I don't yet have any currency at this (new) school. A new instrument is actually a decent idea, but unfortunately, that would require special accommodations as well. In order to enroll in Band/Orchestra for a particular instrument, you need paper work to show that you played that instrument in school in 5th grade and your school music teacher recommends that you continue in middle school.
Really??? How odd. In my son's school/band the middle school teacher encouraged the kids to try and new instrument and branch out. He had instruments they could borrow. This was partly because in elementary they were only allowed flute, clarinet, sax, trumpet, and trombone. And by High School they want a full range of instruments, oboe, tuba, french horn, etc..
