Renting vs. Buying Information

There are many different brands of instruments on the market. There has also been a massive influx of lower quality instruments over the past several years. These instruments don’t always work correctly and are very difficult to repair. Some are found in stores and many of them are found online. The phrase “Band/Orchestra director approved” does not mean it’s a good instrument. Often, they are manufactured to meet an insanely low price point. Lower quality wood and plastic parts are typically used. Pegs are typically not fitted correctly and won’t function properly. There is nothing that can be done to remedy these issues and students become frustrated due to an instrument that does not work properly. When this happens, there is a strong desire to suddenly quit because the act of playing an instrument is no longer enjoyable.

I wish I could direct everyone to specific stores or an instrument dealer. Unfortunately, I cannot promote do that according to district guidelines. I can, however, tell you which instrument brands have proven their quality over time. Many of the brands listed below have been around for decades and have a long history of quality instruments. Some are newer and have shown to be durable and well built. This list is not complete, but it is a good starting point. Unfortunately there are some stores that rent instruments that don’t always work properly. Please refer to the instrument brands listed below and ask questions when you go to rent. If you have additional questions for me, please feel free to ask. I will help you as much as I am allowed.

Time­-tested Instrument Manufacturer Brands

Knilling, Lewis & Sons, Scherl & Roth, Eastman, Pfretschner, Glaesel, Franz Hoffman, Carlo Lamberti, Scott Cao, Yamaha, Klaus Mueller, Yan Qin, Hans Kroger, Franz Werner, Legato & Galiano, to name some of my favorites.

Renting

Renting an instrument is an excellent option. There are many stores where quality instruments can be rented. Please refer to the above instrument brand list when renting.

1. Both new and used name brand instruments can be rented from local music stores. Rates from one store to the next should be within a few dollars of each other. “Like New” and “Used” instruments will typically be $5-­$10 less per month then the rental cost of a “New” instrument.

2. When renting a string instrument, be sure there are no large chunks of wood missing from the instrument and that the pegs turn easily and will stay in place.

3. Most dealers offer insurance to cover loss, damage, and theft. Insurance is highly recommended. The insurance should be included in the rental cost. If not, the additional charge is minimal. I recommend a “no-­questions­-asked” renter’s insurance policy that is already included in the monthly rate.

4. Does the dealer have a rent­ to ­own program or an account that builds equity? Will 100% of your money apply (other than insurance and tax costs) and for how long?

5. On rent-­to­-own programs, is the equity applied toward the purchase of the rented instrument or toward a new instrument? Is the purchase price negotiable when that time comes?

6. What other services does the dealer offer? (free loaners during repair, delivery to school campus, discount on accessories, etc.)

7. What cleaning/maintenance supplies are included? What supplies need to be purchased separately? Please refer to our “Orchestra Supply List” for a list of supplies.

Buying ­

If you prefer to buy an instrument, it is strongly recommended that you purchase from a qualified musical instrument dealer as opposed to a department, discount, or warehouse store or online auction site. A new, good quality beginning orchestra instrument will typically cost well over $400. A used instrument can be a great option, but it will often need repair to bring it to good playing condition. Please remember the saying, “You get what you pay for.” Refer to the instrument brand list and always feel free to contact me for recommendations before purchasing. With many instruments available online, please feel free to email me a link to the instrument you are interested in purchasing. I am more than happy to give you my opinion regarding the instrument!

Buying a used instrument with one of the brand names listed above does not guarantee it's in good playing condition. A used instrument should always be inspected and play-­tested by someone who knows what to look for in a quality instrument before purchasing. Many string shops will be happy to give you an estimate on any repairs that may be required to get the instrument into playing condition for your child.

Additional Information ­

You can find more information and answers to common questions on our GPS Frequently Asked Questions webpage. Go to www.gilbertschools.net , select “Parent Zone,” “Art and Music,” then “Elementary Music FAQ.”