CELLO RENTALS

Beginning this Fall, K&D Music will launch a cello rental program! 

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In my 25+ years as a school orchestra teacher, I have noticed that many students who are eager to learn to play cello have difficulty acquiring an instrument of their own, or they find one that is not set up properly, which limits their progress. As the student progresses into high school, upgrading to a step-up instrument can present an additional barrier. Due to their size and set-up, cellos simply cost more than violins or violas.

At K&D, our goal is to mitigate this cost barrier, and provide a clear and affordable path for beginning students to acquire a good quality starter instrument, and eventually upgrade to a step-up instrument that will serve them well for high school and beyond.

This is a rent-to-own program, with all rental credit applied toward their eventual step-up instrument. Aside from a small service fee and optional insurance, all rent paid will be applied toward purchase, provided they rent continuously.

K&D cello rental program will be limited to ten new members each year. We are looking for children that are just starting their cello journey, so that families will be on target to own their step-up instrument before the student graduates from high school. When they receive their first cello, both the student and caregiver will receive an orientation lesson where they will be taught how to care for the instrument, and the basics of playing technique.

While participating in the program, families may bring the cello in for maintenance services, including restringing and bow rehairs. The cost of these services can be added to their account, keeping their monthly cost consistent over time.  ​

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If you are interested in getting on the list for a cello rental in 2025, please contact us at karen@kanddmusic.com.

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FAQ

• Will you be renting violins, violas or basses?

  • Not at this time. Violins and violas are more affordable to rent and purchase, and there is another ​local business specializing in basses. I would be happy to recommend places to shop for these instruments!

• How is this different than renting from a music store?​

  • Music stores are a good place to rent a starter instrument, however this is not the caliber of instrument that will serve the student well in high school and beyond. We are striving to streamline the pathway to ownership of an appropriate intermediate instrument, so the family doesn't have to start over with a rental or purchase their step-up instrument all at once.​ The monthly rental rate at K&D is comparable to a music store's rental program.

• How is this different than renting from a violin shop?​

  • Violin shops are a great place to acquire a step-up instrument, and families that want to purchase an instrument outright are encouraged to go this route, so you can select an instrument from their inventory. Rent-to-own programs at violin shops are typically shorter-term; only a limited period of rent payments can be applied toward purchase. This is a great option if you have the means to pay it off more quickly. Step-up instruments from K&D will be comparable to those sold at violin shops, but we won't have the same inventory or an elegant showroom.​

• What if my child quits playing the cello?​

  • I understand, not every child takes to it like we hope they will! No worries, you can return the cello and owe no further. The equity accrued toward purchase will not be returned to you - you must complete the program to receive the purchase credit for the rent you have paid.​

• Can I pay off the instrument early?​

  • Absolutely! If you wish to purchase the instrument rather than continuing to pay rent, you may pay it off at any time, and may even receive a small discount for an early payoff. ​My goal is for your child to complete the program owning a step-up instrument.

• How can I keep track of my account?​

  • I will keep a ledger of your payments, and the retail price of the items you have received. Any services or accessories provided will be added to your account. When you size-up or upgrade cellos, the starter or fractional cello will be removed from your account and replaced with the new cello. Your account ledger will be accessible to you at all times.​

• How much does the program cost? ​

  • I am currently in the process of researching and sourcing products, so this is subject to change. My current estimate is $50* per month for rent. Approximate retail value of starter instrument will be $2000*, step-up instrument $4000*. If necessary, monthly rent will be adjusted when the student receives their step-up instrument to ensure that they will be on track to have it paid off before they graduate from high school. (*Instruments originate in Asia or Europe, and costs are subject to change in the event of price inflation due to new tariffs.) ​

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Students participating in the K&D cello rental program must reside locally and are expected to participate in their school music program if one exists. Please reach out if you are interested in renting a cello this year - there will only be ten available!

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