One of the biggest concerns parents have when renting a string instrument is growth. Children grow quickly, sometimes faster than expected, and it is natural to worry that an instrument that fits today may not fit six months from now. This is one of the reasons renting is so common for student musicians, and it is an issue Northland Violins plans for as part of the rental experience.
The short answer is yes. Instrument size changes are expected, and Northland Violins and Von’s Violin Shop allows students to switch to a properly sized instrument as they grow. This process is handled in person at the shop, and it is designed to be straightforward and stress-free for families.
Why instrument size matters so much for students
String instruments are not “one size fits all,” especially for children. Violins, violas, cellos, and basses are made in multiple sizes so students can play comfortably and safely as they grow. An instrument that is too large can cause tension, poor posture, and frustration. An instrument that is too small can limit reach and technique.
Because of this, proper sizing is not something parents are expected to guess at home. Northland Violins treats sizing as an essential part of renting an instrument, not as a one-time decision made on the first day.
When a student rents an instrument, the goal is not to lock them into a single size indefinitely. The goal is to make sure they always have an instrument that fits their current physical size and supports healthy playing habits.
Switching sizes is part of the rental model
At Northland Violins, switching instrument sizes as a student grows is built into the rental philosophy. Growth is normal, expected, and accounted for.
When a student outgrows their current instrument, the family can bring the instrument back to the shop and exchange it for the next appropriate size. This exchange is handled in person so the student can be measured and fitted correctly. The emphasis is always on making sure the student leaves with an instrument that fits them now, not one they are expected to “grow into.”
This in-store approach ensures that sizing decisions are based on real measurements and observation, rather than age alone or assumptions made at home.
The rental price does not change when the size changes
One of the most important points for parents is cost predictability. At Northland Violins, the monthly rental rate remains the same regardless of instrument size.
Whether a student is renting a smaller violin or has moved up to a full-size instrument, the base rental rate does not increase simply because the instrument is larger. This removes a major financial concern for families, especially during years when children may need to move up more than once.
This consistency allows parents to focus on what matters most, which is the student’s comfort and progress, rather than worrying about unexpected cost increases tied to growth.
Why size exchanges are handled in store
All size exchanges at Northland Violins are handled in person. This is intentional.
Sizing a string instrument is not just about height or age. It involves arm length, hand size, posture, and how the student holds and supports the instrument. These factors are best evaluated when the student is physically present.
By handling exchanges in store, Northland Violins can confirm that the new instrument truly fits the student, rather than relying on charts or estimates. This also gives parents the opportunity to ask questions and understand what changes, if any, the student may notice when moving up a size.
Does switching sizes mean switching instruments entirely?
Switching sizes typically means staying within the same instrument family, such as moving from a smaller violin to a larger violin. Northland Violins clearly supports size exchanges as a child grows.
If a student is considering switching to a different instrument entirely, such as from violin to viola, this can be easily done. In those situations, families are encouraged to speak directly with Northland Violins so their specific circumstances can be discussed.
What parents should watch for at home
Parents are often the first to notice when an instrument may no longer fit. Signs can include difficulty reaching comfortably, changes in posture, complaints of discomfort, or a sense that the instrument suddenly feels awkward even though the student was previously comfortable.
When these signs appear, it is a good idea to bring the instrument and the student into Northland Violins for a size check. There is no expectation that parents must diagnose the issue themselves. That is part of what renting is designed to support.
Why this flexibility matters for student success
Having the right size instrument at the right time helps students stay engaged and confident. Struggling with an ill-fitting instrument can slow progress and make practice frustrating.
By allowing size changes as part of the rental, Northland Violins removes one of the most common barriers families face during the early years of music study. Parents do not need to worry about making a “perfect” decision at the beginning, because the rental can adapt as the student grows.
A note on higher-quality instruments
While Northland Violins focuses on student rentals, families whose students have outgrown the student-instrument stage and are ready to explore higher-quality instruments may eventually want to speak with Von’s Violin Shop, which specializes in fine instruments for advancing players. This is not part of the rental process itself, but it is a natural next step for some students over time.
The bottom line
Children grow, and Northland Violins plans for that reality. Instrument size changes are handled in store, the rental rate stays the same regardless of size, and the focus remains on proper fit and student comfort.
If you think your child may need a different size, the next step is simple: bring the student and instrument into Northland Violins, and the staff will help determine the best fit moving forward.
If you have additional questions, you are always welcome to call, email, or come in to learn more.