Some need the assurance of a large group of people to become confident. For others, it is the reverse. If the student has the need to fit into a large section, then an instrument that stands out may not be the correct selection. For some, music is the area where they can develop that confidence. The school rents Baritones, French Horns and Tubas.
Percussionists invariably are more musical performers if they start on a wind instrument.
The clarinet is far more portable.