Instrument quality is critical for success in learning to play. It affects tone production, intonation, and the development of proper technique. There will still be squeaks and squawks, and tuning will be off in the early stages; that is normal. However, a better-quality instrument facilitates the student overcoming those issues and allows for the development of a mature sound.

GET THE RIGHT INSTRUMENT

With string instruments, the adage “you get what you pay for” is applicable. The cheapest deal often results in the cheapest sound. As attractive as contemporary-colored / painted instruments may be, these are usually the most difficult instruments to work with and are unacceptable in an orchestra. This also applies to instruments made of plastic or fiberglass. Students will not be allowed to use these types of instruments.

Instruments purchased online, at garage sales, pawn shops, or places other than a musical instrument dealer must be approved by the director.

There are many quality student-instruments options available. The best thing to do, whether renting or purchasing, is to work with a reputable music shop that specializes in string instruments. There are several throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.

String instruments come in many sizes and can be exchanged for the next size up as the student grows. Mr. Schubert will assist in determining the correct size prior to your visit to the shop with your student. Making an appointment in advance will expedite the process.

INSTRUMENT GUIDELINES FOR 2025-26

Violins / Violas

You need to rent your instrument from a local music instrument shop. KISD instruments will be prioritized for students who receive financial accommodations (i.e. free/reduced lunch) and for those who rented from the district last year.

Cellos

You first need to rent a home-based instrument from a local music instrument shop. An optional disctrict-owned instrument is available for "at school only." This saves wear and tear on the instruments and ensures the student's ability to practice at home, as well as at school.

Basses

Depending on availability, you may be able to rent two instruments from the district - one for "at home" and one for "at school." However, our school bass inventory (especially of 3/4 basses) is extremely limited.

Students are strongly encouraged to secure an instrument through one of these vendors:

Arlington Strings

2425 W Arkansas Ln, Ste #E

Pantego, TX 76013

817.460.0345

www.arlingtonstrings.net

Bell’s Music Shop, Inc.

536 Keller Pkwy

Keller, TX 76248

817.778.4155

www.bellsmusicshop.com

Sweetwater

800.222.4700

www.sweetwater.com

Young Musicians, Inc.

5901 Park Vista Cir #111

Keller, TX 76244

817.741.3838

www.young-musicians.com

If renting from one of these shops is beyond the scope of the family’s budget, Keller ISD has a limited inventory of instruments available for a modest maintenance fee ($125 per year / $50 for those who receive financial accommodations such as free/reduced lunch). Please let the director know and we will try to match one for your student. Instrument availability is based on a first-come, first-served basis.

Purchasing a string instrument is a very personal process and a significant investment. It is recommended that you reserve purchasing until the student has grown enough to play a full-size instrument. If you are concerned about rental fees accruing over time, some shops offer “rent-to-own” options.

When you are ready to purchase an instrument, please let the director know. There are additional resources that can be shared to help orient you to the process on how to search for that “just right” instrument.