Should I “Rent” or “Buy” a Musical Instrument

Truly successful decision-making relies on a balance between deliberate and instinctive thinking.
— Malcom Gladwell

One of the most exciting challenges about starting music lessons is deciding whether to rent or buy an instrument for you or your child.  What should I do?

If you or your child have never played an instrument, your music teacher will be the best person to ask. The goal will be to find the best instrument for either you or your child. Because there are so many different sizes, models, and skill level to understand with any instrument, it will be essential to hear what your teacher suggests for you. It may also be beneficial to wait until after your first lesson.

While a child can learn to start playing the Piano and the Violin effectively as early as four years old, we suggest that drum lessons begin at seven years old, and guitar at eight years old.

And, if you love an instrument and feel that you will be playing, go online, or to your nearest music store and buy it. But what about your child? And what if you are NOT sure?

The Advantages of Renting - Flexibility

The main advantage of renting an instrument is that it offers a quick and easy solution for starting to learn now. Another advantage is that generally, repairs and maintenance are usually covered. The most significant benefit is that if they want to change instruments, they can either return it or exchange it. The result will be that you arrive at an instrument you love before investing.

The Advantages of Buying - Stability

There are many advantages to buying. The first is that owning an instrument can bring a sense of commitment and stability. This translates into a student being further encouraged to keep playing and working hard to study that instrument.  It also motivates the parent to encourage daily practice, a necessary ingredient for playing that instrument.  

Also, consider the alternative could be finding a used instrument; this could be extremely cost-effective. Make sure to have your teacher check it out before you buy it. It is often very frustrating to learn that an instrument needs to be repaired or has a major mechanical issue. Many music teachers can tell just by looking at the instrument or playing it, whether it is worth the money they are asking.

Maintenance and Repair

Every instrument will need to be correctly taken care of. Guitars will need new strings, pianos will need to be tuned, drums will need to be tuned, and most brass or wind instruments need specific care.  Keep that in mind when you are searching to rent or buy an instrument.

Who can help me with this process?
We offer music rentals in both of our locations San Marcos and Encinitas. Give us a call, and we will walk you through the process. We also have a teacher for every instrument, and they, too, can help you with buying your instrument. 

We will be excited to help you with your incredible Musical Journey!