Should I Rent-to-Own (or Just Rent!) or Buy an Instrument for My Child Starting Band or Orchestra This Fall?

Should I rent or buy?

Renting an instrument is flexible.  Our program has repair and maintenance coverage to keep the instrument in perfect playing condition.  We offer the ability to exchange the instrument at no cost, as well as special discounts on purchasing if you have decided you have the right instrument.  Also, you have the option to return it if the student should ever decide they want to follow another passion.  We have loaner instruments available to students with the maintenance agreement if the instrument needs repairs or maintenance.  You can apply all your equity to purchase, allowing you to eventually own an instrument if you wish.  Know that our rental fleet is maintained to the highest standards by our in house technician.

Pressure to fit in with the most popular crowd and styles may cause first-time musicians to hastily choose an instrument.  Starting with an instrument first through a rental program is a good way to let them explore options without a huge financial commitment.

Buying an Instrument: Stability

Buying an instrument is a little bit more of a commitment. In the long term, it can be less expensive than renting but you have fewer options regarding some of the flexibility. Here’s a quick run down of why I see folks buy an instrument:  If the student will play for more than three years, purchasing is a little more cost effective, however there are no exchange options available.

 with Golden Music's Rent-to-Own

Owning an instrument versus renting can mean costly repairs and missing class when it's under repair.  Rent-to-Own or Just Rent! fixes that. If you live nearby, just pop in, if you are further away or busy, we will pick up your instrument and bring you a loaner, fix yours and bring it back.  There’s no trouble and the maintenance plan covers all repairs due to normal use.  This is much easier than going online or finding someone for the repair in a rush, when you don’t know that much about the instrument and what it actually needs.  If you buy an instrument and it breaks, you have at least two weeks in a shop, and you have to drive to the store and back. That is 1/5 of your students class semester! With our program, we deliver you a loaner to your home or schools so you never miss a day of class!