You’ve just heard your child express interest in playing the viola after a school music demonstration. While your heart swells with pride at their enthusiasm for music, your wallet might be feeling a different emotion. Getting your child started on the viola is undeniably expensive due to the cost of lessons, music books, and of course, the instrument itself. You can’t stop it but renting a violin is a useful way to preserve access to music education while safeguarding your finances.
The High Cost of Buying a Viola
The Price Range of Quality Violas
While intermediate instruments cost between £600 and £1,200 (roughly $800 – $1,500 for our US readers), novice violas usually cost between £250 to £500 / $300 to $600. This is a commitment to something that a developing child is only starting to learn about. Less expensive instruments of poor quality are available, but their harsh tone and challenging playability are the issues. Quality is important when it comes to string instruments, particularly for novices honing their technique and ear.
Growth Factor: Outgrowing Instruments
Unlike many other instruments, violas must physically match the player’s body size. A 9-year-old needs a different viola than they’ll need at 12, which differs from what they’ll need at 15. Purchasing new instruments every few years multiplies your costs significantly. When their child suddenly requires the next size up, many parents are faced with unforeseen costs of £350 / $500 or more
The Financial Advantages of Viola Rentals
A. Lower Initial Costs
Viola rentals typically cost £10-£20 / $15-30 monthly, depending on instrument size and quality. This spreads the expense into manageable payments rather than requiring a large lump sum. The initial outlay usually includes just the first month’s payment plus a refundable security deposit. This low barrier to entry means you can say “yes” to your child’s interest without major financial stress.
B. Maintenance and Repairs Included
Broken strings, bow rehairs, and adjustments add unexpected costs when you own an instrument. Most rental programs include maintenance coverage in the monthly fee, eliminating these surprise expenses. When your child accidentally bumps the bridge or needs new strings before a concert, these repairs typically happen at no additional cost – savings that add up significantly over time.
C. Flexibility if Interest Changes
Let’s face it – children sometimes lose interest in activities they initially loved. If you’ve invested £500 / $600 in a viola that sits unused after three months, that money is essentially lost. Rental programs let you return the instrument if your child’s interests shift, limiting your financial commitment to just the months they actually played.
How Viola Rentals Support Long-Term Savings
A. Easy Upgrades to Larger Sizes
When your child grows, rental programs allow seamless exchanges to larger instruments, typically at the same monthly rate. This system eliminates the need to sell outgrown instruments (often at a loss) and purchase new ones. Parents appreciate the predictable monthly cost versus the irregular larger expenses of buying and selling instruments.
B. Trial Period Before Commitment
Rentals let you assess your child’s genuine interest and aptitude before investing in an instrument purchase. Many families rent for 6-12 months to confirm commitment before considering ownership. This trial period prevents potentially costly mistakes in purchasing instruments that don’t match your child’s needs or interests.
Combining Rentals with Other Cost-Saving Strategies
A. Group Lessons and Rentals
Many music stores offer discounted rental rates when bundled with group lessons. These package deals can reduce your total monthly music education costs by 10-20% compared to separate payments. Group lessons themselves cost significantly less than private instruction while providing valuable ensemble experience.
B. Rental-to-Own Programs
Many rental programs will use a percentage of your money toward a future purchase if your child exhibits consistent interest. This approach essentially provides interest-free financing while maintaining the flexibility of renting. Families frequently save hundreds of dollars through these programs compared to direct purchase options.
Conclusion
For parents who want to support their child’s musical education, renting violas is a wise economical move. Offering rental-to-own choices, lower starting prices, maintenance included, and size flexibility can help you keep music costs under control without compromising instrument quality. This approach maintains access to music education while protecting your family’s total budget. While your child gets to hear the beautiful music of the viola, you continue to be financially secure.
