When a child joins orchestra, one of the first practical questions parents ask is simple and important: How much will it cost to rent an instrument each month? Understanding the monthly cost helps families plan ahead and feel confident about getting started without surprises.
At Northland Violins and Von’s Violin Shop, rental pricing is designed to be clear, predictable, and appropriate for students who are just beginning their musical journey. Renting is often the most practical way to start, and knowing the monthly costs makes that decision easier.
Monthly Rental Costs at Northland Violins
Northland Violins offers straightforward monthly rental rates that reflect the size and complexity of each instrument. Violins rent starting at $25 per month, and violas also start at $25 per month. These two instruments are the most common choices for beginners and are priced the same to keep things simple for families deciding between them.
Cello rentals start at $45 per month, reflecting the larger size of the instrument and the additional materials involved. Double bass rentals start at $65 per month, which accounts for the bass’s size, construction, and transport considerations. These monthly rates are consistent across instrument sizes, so moving up in size as a student grows does not increase the base rental price.
For parents, this means there is no financial penalty when a growing student needs a larger instrument. The focus stays on proper fit rather than worrying about changing costs. While prices are subject to change, we’ve held these prices since the store first opened.
What’s Included with the Monthly Rental
The monthly rental price covers far more than just the instrument itself. Each rental from Northland Violins includes everything a student needs to begin playing right away.
All rental instruments are professionally set up by one of our Master Luthiers and come with a properly matched bow and a protective case suitable for daily transport to and from school. A cleaning cloth and rosin are also included, allowing students to care for their instrument and produce sound correctly from the start. Violins and violas include a shoulder rest, which is essential for comfort and proper playing position. Cellos include a rock stop, which secures the endpin and prevents the instrument from sliding during practice.
Including these items in the rental eliminates guesswork for parents and ensures students are equipped appropriately on day one.
Optional Insurance for Complete Peace of Mind
Instruments are meant to be used regularly, and with that use comes the possibility of accidents. Northland Violins offers optional instrument insurance for an additional $5 per month, which provides comprehensive coverage for the rented instrument.
With insurance in place, any damage to the covered instrument is taken care of. Parents don’t have to worry about unexpected repair or replacement costs if something goes wrong. This coverage allows students to practice confidently and parents to relax, knowing that accidents won’t turn into financial stress.
For many families, this small additional monthly cost provides significant peace of mind.
How Renting Helps Families Manage Costs
Renting spreads the cost of an instrument over time rather than requiring a large upfront purchase. This is especially helpful for families who are new to orchestra and still learning how their child will respond to playing an instrument.
Children grow, interests evolve, and schedules change. Renting allows families to support their child’s interest in music without committing to ownership before they know whether orchestra will be a long-term pursuit. If a student decides to stop playing, the rental can simply be returned.
At the same time, renting does not mean starting over financially if a family later decides to buy.
Rental Payments Can Go Toward Purchasing an Instrument
One of the most valuable features of Northland Violins’ rental program is the rent-to-own option. With continuous monthly rental payments, those payments can be applied toward the purchase of an instrument later.
This approach allows families to start with renting and move toward ownership only when it makes sense. Parents can see how their child progresses, confirm long-term interest, and make a purchasing decision based on experience rather than guesswork. When the time comes to buy, the rental payments already made, help offset the cost.
For many families, this makes renting not just a temporary solution, but a smart first step.
Why Renting Is Often the Best Choice for Beginners
For beginner students, renting typically offers the best balance of flexibility, affordability, and support. Size changes are easy to manage, maintenance questions can be addressed by the shop, and parents are not left wondering whether an instrument problem is normal or needs attention.
The monthly cost remains predictable, and the included accessories ensure students are properly equipped without additional shopping trips. Renting keeps the focus where it belongs: on learning and enjoying music.
Planning Ahead with Confidence
Understanding the monthly rental cost helps parents plan their budget and feel confident about starting orchestra. With violin and viola rentals starting at $25 per month, cello rentals starting at $45 per month, and bass rentals starting at $65 per month, families can choose an instrument knowing exactly what to expect. Adding optional insurance for $5 per month provides additional reassurance that the instrument is fully protected.
Because rental payments can be applied toward purchasing an instrument later, renting also supports long-term planning without pressure.
Learn More About Renting at Northland Violins
If you’d like to learn more about monthly rental costs or how the rental program works, you’re welcome to learn more, call us, email us, or come in with questions. We’re happy to explain options, help with sizing, and make sure you feel comfortable before getting started.
Renting an instrument should feel manageable and supportive. At Northland Violins, that’s exactly how we’ve designed it.