When a student joins an orchestra program, parents often ask the same practical question right away:
How much is it going to cost to rent an instrument each month?
Renting is the most common—and usually the smartest—way for students to get started. At Von’s Violin Shop, our rental program is designed to be straightforward, affordable, and flexible, so families can focus on learning music rather than worrying about unexpected costs.
Here’s what you need to know.
Monthly Rental Costs at Von’s Violin Shop
Rental prices are based on the type of instrument, not the size.
Starting monthly rates:
- Violin: starting at $25 per month
- Viola: starting at $25 per month
- Cello: starting at $45 per month
- Double Bass: starting at $65 per month
Whether your student plays a 1/4 size or a full 4/4 size, the monthly rental price is the same. This is intentional—and it’s one of the biggest advantages of renting.
Same Price for Every Size — Why That Matters
Students grow. Often faster than expected.
Because all Violins, Viola’s, Cello’s or Basses are the same price as you moving up to a larger instrument does not increase your monthly cost. When a student outgrows their instrument, it can be exchanged for the correct size at no additional charge.
There are:
- No size-up fees
- No price jumps
- No penalty for growth
This makes renting far more economical than buying new instruments every time a student grows. It’s also more comfortable for the student, than buying a full-sized instrument that is hard for them to play.
What’s Included with Every Rental?
Every rental from Von’s Violin Shop is a complete, ready-to-play package. Families do not need to purchase basic accessories separately.
Each rental includes:
- The instrument
- A properly matched bow
- A protective case
- A cleaning cloth
- Appropriate rosin for the instrument
In addition:
- Violins and violas include a shoulder rest as part of the rental package
Everything your student needs to begin playing is included from day one.
Professional Setup Comes Standard
Before any rental instrument leaves the shop, it is:
- Professionally inspected
- Properly set up for student play
- Checked for playability and structural integrity
This is a crucial difference between renting from a dedicated violin shop and ordering an instrument online. A properly set-up instrument is easier to play, sounds better, and helps students develop correct technique.
Optional Instrument Insurance: $5 Per Month
School hallways, bus rides, and busy households are not gentle environments for string instruments.
For just $5 per month, families can add full instrument insurance to their rental. This coverage means:
- Accidental damage is covered
- Repairs are covered
- If an instrument cannot be repaired, it will be replaced
- The exchange or repair costs the family nothing
Even severe accidents are covered. Insurance exists to remove stress and keep students playing.
What Happens If a Rental Instrument Is Damaged?
If a rental instrument is damaged:
- Our luthiers evaluate the instrument
- If it can be repaired, it is repaired
- If it is unrepairable, it is swapped out for another instrument (rare)
If the rental includes insurance, the repair or replacement is handled at no charge to the family.
Our priority is minimizing downtime and keeping students playing.
Rental Credit Toward Ownership
Renting does not mean your payments disappear.
At Von’s Violin Shop, 18 months of rental earns credit toward purchasing that instrument. If your student continues with orchestra and you decide to buy, rental payments can be applied toward ownership.
This allows families to:
- Try orchestra with minimal risk
- Delay large purchases
- Transition to ownership when ready
Many families choose to rent for several years and then apply their rental credit toward purchasing once the student’s size and commitment stabilize.
Why Renting Makes Sense for Most Students
Renting offers advantages that buying often doesn’t—especially for beginners:
- Low upfront cost
- Predictable monthly pricing
- No extra cost for larger sizes
- Included accessories
- Professional setup
- Coverage for damage
- Flexibility if a student changes instruments or programs
For most students, renting is the safest and most cost-effective way to start.
Why Rent Locally?
Searching for “instrument rental near me” isn’t just about convenience. Renting locally means:
- Proper in-person sizing
- Ongoing support as your student grows
- Quick repairs or exchanges when needed
- Direct access to knowledgeable staff and luthiers
At http://www.northlandviolins.com Local rental programs are designed to work hand-in-hand with school orchestra programs.
Final Thoughts
Renting an orchestral string instrument should be simple, transparent, and stress-free. With clear monthly pricing, included accessories, professional setup, and optional insurance, renting from Von’s Violin Shop allows families to focus on what matters most: helping students succeed in music.
Ready to Get Started?
If your student needs a violin, viola, cello, or bass, bring them in. We’ll make sure they’re sized correctly, explain rental options clearly, and answer any questions you have.
That’s how renting should work.