Rental/Purchase Info

Renting Guidelines


Renting a high quality instrument is a great option for a middle school student. Often times the student will still be growing and will be moving through various instrument sizes. I recommend buying an instrument when the student is both fully committed to playing it and will not need another size up.

For Violins I would recommend renting until the student is playing a full size (4/4) instrument.

For Violas I would recommend renting until the student is playing a 15 inch viola.

For Cello I would recommend renting until the student is playing a full size (4/4) instrument.

For Bass I would recommend renting until the student is playing a 3/4 size bass.

Rental Locations

The companies listed below have high quality instruments to make orchestra a fun experience! A poor instrument makes it difficult for a child to learn to play so make sure your rental source is reputable!

  1. Music and Arts (Danbury) 203-748-1444
  2. Enchanted Garden (Ridgefield) https://www.enchantedgardenstudios.com/rentals-and-books
  3. Sharps and Flats (Ridgefield) 203-438-3300

Purchasing Recommendations

If you're ready to purchase an instrument it should be because your child has shown a love of playing and intends to continue at the high school level or on their own. Typically I only recommend purchasing when a student is ready to play a full size instrument. If you plan on purchasing please read the recommendations below.

  1. DO NOT BUY AN INSTRUMENT ON AMAZON. The instruments sold on amazon are cheap for a reason. They are cheap because they are inferior and cause frustration. You are setting your child up for frustration if you purchase one of these instruments. In addition you should not buy an instrument if it is any color other than the natural grain of the wood. Yes, they look fun but do not stay in tune and are difficult to play.
  2. Consult either myself or your private instructor for recommendations. There are many things to consider when purchasing an instrument and an expert opinion will make sure that you make a quality choice without overpaying.
  3. Really make sure that you are buying for the right reason. Buying because you think it will be cheaper than renting is not a great reason because you will most likely end up with an inferior and frustrating instrument.
  4. If you have an "option to buy" program through your rental company make sure you know the exact instrument that you will be purchasing before you go ahead and buy. Often times rental companies charge you the MSRP for that instrument and you can get a better instrument for less. Again, consult your teacher.