Rentals
Interested in renting a bowed instrument but not sure where to go? Look no further than Riverbend Strings. We understand that not all instruments are created equal and that every instrument needs to be setup properly for it to sound and feel right. Without the setup of a trained luthier, playing a new instrument can have additional challenges that a new learner won’t be able to identify, and often they will blame themselves. Our goal is to ensure the only challenge is learning the instrument, and not fighting with the instrument itself. A proper set up on a high-quality instrument, with precise measurements and quality fittings will see the student set up for success.
We also aim to make our rentals as affordable as possible. Renting from us is a great way to try out a new instrument without making a big financial commitment. Violin rentals start at $28 +HST / month, please inquire about other instrument options.
When you rent from us, all instrument rentals include the instrument, bow, case, rosin, and all the necessary accessories for playing that instrument (e.g., shoulder rest for violin and viola, endpin anchor for cello). For more information about our rental policy and what it entails, please visit our Policies page.
Interested in renting a bowed instrument but not sure where to go? Look no further than Riverbend Strings. We understand that not all instruments are created equal and that every instrument needs to be setup properly for it to sound and feel right. Without the setup of a trained luthier, playing a new instrument can have additional challenges that a new learner won’t be able to identify, and often they will blame themselves. Our goal is to ensure the only challenge is learning the instrument, and not fighting with the instrument itself. A proper set up on a high-quality instrument, with precise measurements and quality fittings will see the student set up for success.
We also aim to make our rentals as affordable as possible. Renting from us is a great way to try out a new instrument without making a big financial commitment. Violin rentals start at $28 +HST / month, please inquire about other instrument options.
When you rent from us, all instrument rentals include the instrument, bow, case, rosin, and all the necessary accessories for playing that instrument (e.g., shoulder rest for violin and viola, endpin anchor for cello). For more information about our rental policy and what it entails, please visit our Policies page.
Music Lessons
Learn to Play an Instrument!
Violin, Viola, & Cello Rentals
At Riverbend Strings, we offer only quality instruments as part of our rental service. From the violin, viola, and to the cello, begin your journey towards mastering a string instrument today.
When you rent an instrument with us, make sure to read and fill our Rental Agreement Form (pdf).
Violin
$28 / month
Viola
$35 / month
Cello
$65 / month
*Please Note: Viola and cello rentals are available on a limited basis. Rental fees are tax exclusive.
Why Rent From Us?
Quality
Instruments for the rental program are selected to provide a great quality, student-level instrument that will be higher quality than the average family would be able to source on their own. Focus is always on optimal playability, with setup and fittings that will keep the player focused on the challenge of learning the instrument, rather than fighting with the instrument itself.
Sizing
We ensure that each player is measured and fit to the appropriate size instrument for them, and as the player grows and needs larger sizes, we follow along and ensure we have the next size available as needed to make for as seamless a transition as possible. Rental credit accumulates uninterrupted as the student progresses through the sizes. This often saves families a considerable investment when the student is young. A typical 7-8 year old beginner will end up playing on 4 different size instruments before reaching a full-size.
Maintenance
For the duration of your rental period, any regular maintenance such as bow rehairing, instrument cleaning, adjustments, etc., is included in the rental price. Repairs such as cracks, scratches, open seams, peg issues, and even broken strings are also covered – if it is able to be repaired at Riverbend Strings, then it is included!
For more information about what repairs the rental program covers, please visit our Policies page.
Flexibility
The rental program at Riverbend Strings is designed to fit the lifestyle of busy families in rural Nova Scotia. Often this means a meetup with a handoff of a violin in a grocery store parking lot, or delivering to a local music teacher to facilitate the instrument finding its way to its new learner. It is not easy for many folks to travel out to Sherbrooke, so I do my best to accommodate when I can, either by coordinating a meetup closer to home (Antigonish, New Glasgow, possibly beyond) or by being flexible in my availability for timing to meet at my workshop, by making appointments in the evenings or weekends possible.
We are always happy to remove barriers for folks to access quality instruments for themselves or their loved ones, so please always feel comfortable asking if there is something we can do to make it accessible for you.
Special Orders
Special order for musical accessories, instruments, strings, and more are available by request. We can’t keep everything in stock all at once, but we can get just about anything you need. Contact us to let us know what you you’d like ordered and we’d be happy to help.