Viola Rental Guide
Learning to play a new instrument is an exciting but uncertain time. Will you enjoy the viola and stick with it, or will you decide it’s not for you and try a different instrument instead? The answer to this question is something you’ll only find out once you give it a shot, and that’s why renting a viola first is a good idea. You’ll get the chance to try it out without committing to a purchase, and you’ll enjoy some other benefits as well.
The Advantages of Renting
The freedom to return the viola or switch to another instrument is only the beginning of what renting has to offer. You’ll also have access to special provisions and service arrangements available for the duration of your rental term. And with a rented instrument to take the wear and tear of the learning process, you won’t have to worry about damage to your investment. That’s a general summary of what to expect, and it gets even better when you look at the details.
Let’s take a look at some of the key aspects that make renting a wise option for any beginning musician.
Service and Maintenance Arrangements
When your viola needs a tune-up or a repair, simply bring it to a local store or affiliate shop to get the care it needs.
An Instrument that Grows
Renting gives you the option to exchange the viola for a larger model, so it will always be the right fit for a young player growing up. If you’re renting for a student in school, your child’s educator will help decide when it’s time to move up a size.
The Option to Own
With each rental payment, you build credit toward the purchase of a student viola like the one you rented, or even an upgraded model when you’re ready.
Professional Prep Work
Every viola that’s rented in “like new” condition has been carefully inspected and tuned up to perform its best. And since an instrument that’s been played before has already been broken in, you’ll get more out of a rented viola in the earlier weeks of use.
Accessory Choices
To make it easier to get started, you can choose an available starter kit to go with your rental, including helpful items such as a cleaning kit, music stand and nametag.
Replacement Coverage
With the addition of a Liability Damage Waiver (LDW) to your rental plan, you can rest easy knowing that you’re protected against damage or theft.
Keeping Your Viola in Shape
Once you’ve rented a viola, it’s important to take care of it to keep it in good playing condition. Here are the basic practices to help you on your way:
Before you Play:
- Use the screw beneath the frog to tighten the bow hairs.
- Apply rosin to the bow by rubbing the hairs gently back and forth against the rosin.
- Ensure that the chin rest is adjusted properly.
- Don’t forget your care kit!
After you Play:
- Clean the viola strings with a soft cloth to remove built-up rosin and other debris.
- Let the tension out of the bow hairs to keep them from becoming stretched or damaged between plays.
- Place the viola carefully in its case after use, and store it in a place that’s room temperature and not too humid nor too dry.