Band Instrument Rentals

ABI maintains a rental program with student level instruments in top playing condition. All rentals are brand name, excellent quality instruments serviced by our repair technicians before being issued to a customer. Basic care and maintenance is explained to the student as time allows. Repair maintenance is covered during the term of rental as needed.

In many situations, renting is a good option for beginners. Factors such as the student's level of commitment, how well the music program is established, and family finances may affect the decision to rent or to buy. Having the security of repair maintenance covered under a rental program may be a factor for some students.

We recommend rental of an instrument with a limited timeframe in mind, since renting will cost more than buying in the long run. Making a wise purchase will significantly reduce your total expenses over time. And it's also true that owning an instrument can be a great incentive to succeed.

Let's compare: Every hard earned dollar spent in rental charges is money above and beyond what you spend in purchasing. (That is assuming that when you purchase, it is a quality instrument at a greatly discounted price.) You may be unaware that rent-to-purchase dollars do not apply towards the lowest sales prices. With those contracts, there's a good chance you'll overspend.

ABI is built around our reputation for good service. Whether you rent or buy from us, we will supply you with a DVD demonstrating basic instrument care and maintenance. Our staff of educators and music graduates will help your student gain confidence with their new instrument.

Rental FAQ's

When is renting an instrument a good option?

We believe that rentals are best for the beginning student, especially one who hasn't played a particular instrument before. They can also be appropriate for students who simply cannot make up their mind what type of instrument they want to play. In any case, rentals should be seen as an option used for a short term while testing the waters and getting a feel for the instrument.

Many school music programs have a high retention rate and performing opportunities for students. Students will be expected to stay in the music program for at least the whole school year to learn the basics and gain confidence, and many stay on for several years. If you believe your child is likely to continue with music for the long haul, then purchasing may be a better option than renting. This is especially true for returning students who are continuing on with the same instrument.

In contrast, some areas have music programs that are held after school, or may last for only a portion of the school year. Renting in this situation may be a logical choice since there may be less motivation for the student to continue on beyond a few months. Learn what you can about your student's program before you make a decision to rent or buy.

Does ABI rent band and orchestra instruments?

Yes, we do offer rentals for traditional school beginning band and orchestra instruments. Our rental program consists of a limited number of well-maintained, student level instruments. All rentals are brand name instruments kept in top playing condition by our in-store repair shop.

Two months is the minimum rental period and then the contract becomes month to month. Rental fees include instrument, case, and tax. Mouthpieces and accessories are available for purchase at discounted prices. All rental agreements require a major credit card.

What is ABI's Buy-Back Guarantee program
In response to the "common sense" buying habits of our customers, ABI has created a Buy-Back Guarantee program for new student level instrument purchases.

Instruments are sold at our everyday low prices. Then, as long as you keep the instrument past the required period of 6 months, we'll allow you the option of selling the instrument back to us . The pro-rated sliding scale is very fair (our reputation speaks for itself) and this program is highly successful.

Since we sell only the best products available, and our discount pricing is among the lowest you'll find, we believe that purchasing is often the best investment. Owning your instrument develops pride of ownership and will help your student make a commitment to give this new interest some quality time.

What about "Rent-to own" programs?
ABI does not offer this option because it means we'd have to overcharge our customers. Please think carefully before overspending on gimmick programs like rent to own. Sure, the monthly payments SEEM small, but ...

Yes, we said, "gimmick". Compare the total spent in the long run and you will probably discover that:

• You are not getting a competitive or discounted sale price on the instrument
  

• You are likely paying full retail price for the same instrument you could have purchased for a fraction of the amount
  

• The store may be offering an instrument of lesser quality with a price comparable to name brands on sale, one that will not serve the student well and may cause you to make another purchase too soon.

The total costs?.... What you see on the bottom line is what you'll spend. Read the fine print.