Rental FAQs
Should I rent or buy an instrument?
If you’re not sure whether or not your child will play an instrument longer than the current school year, you should probably rent. Renting is a cost-effective way to see just how interested your child is in music. Once you’ve established that he or she will be playing for at least two additional years, you may want to consider purchasing your instrument or a better, performance-level instrument which will have a better sound quality. For pricing information, see Rental Pricing.
What kinds of instruments do you rent?
All of our instruments are high quality, name-brand instruments such as Yamaha, Selmer, Jupiter, Buffet, Bach, Conn, Armstrong and Gemeinhardt in band instruments, and Yamaha, Eastman and Amati for stringed instruments.
I've seen really inexpensive instruments at super stores. Is there a downside to purchasing one of these instruments?
Yes. Just ask your child’s music teacher. These instruments may not be of the quality and standards you need to give your child the best opportunity for success in music. Some may be missing parts needed to play the instrument, and repairs are often difficult. For your child to start out having a good music experience, it’s imperative that they have a quality, reliable instrument that lasts.
Do my payments go towards the purchase of the instrument?
Yes. All of your base rental payments go towards the purchase of your rental instrument. (If you choose the school-year special, only 50% of your base rental payment is applied towards purchase.) The tax and insurance portion of your payments is not applied. In addition,you receive 20% off the balance when you decide to buy, and you may buy either the instrument you are renting, a new instrument of the same or equivalent make and model, or your rental payments may be applied to a higher quality performance-level instrument. It's really your choice. If the current cash purchase price of any particular instrument is less than the buy-out price of your instrument (with your equity applied), we will always give you the lower price.
What if my child wants to change instruments?
You may switch instruments within the band and orchestral families at any time, providing your payments are current. If there is a difference in the monthly price between the old instrument and the new one, you will be responsible for the new monthly price.
What if my child outgrows his instrument?
In the case of string instruments, very often children outgrow their instrument during the school year. If this is the case, simply call us and we will exchange the instrument at your school, or bring in the instrument and we will give you the next size up.
What does the LDW (Loss, Damage Waiver) insurance cover?
LDW (loss, damage waiver) insurance covers theft of the instrument. If the instrument is lost, insurance does not cover it. In the case of theft, a police report must be filed within 72 hours of the loss. Once
What if I my child breaks a string or a reed?
Unfortunately, insurance doesn’t cover broken strings, broken reeds or chipped mouthpieces. If you need a string replaced—or to purchase any other accessories—just stop by the store.
Can my child's grandparents pay for the rental?
Any family member may assume responsibility for instrument rental payments, providing he or she is available to provide a driver's license, major credit card and signature.