Students who do not own their own instrument may rent an instrument from the school or from an independent music store. For rental costs and payment for school instruments, please contact the front office for assistance.
FAQ:
Should I rent or buy?
If your child is new to playing a stringed instrument, I strongly recommend renting until you are sure they are fully committed to the instrument. Additionally, if your child has not yet grown into a full sized instrument (3/4 sized for bass), it is best to continue to rent.
What size instrument do I need?
An instrument that is too big or too small will be uncomfortable and difficult to play and may lead to frustration and pain. Playing on the correct sized instrument is very important! Every person is built differently, so it is important to be measured by me or a professional at a reputable music store to find out what the appropriate size for your child is before renting or buying any instrument. (Please see the pop-out tab on the left labeled "Instrument Sizing" for further information.)
What if I decide to buy an instrument for my child?
Buying an instrument can be daunting, so please contact me before making any purchases- I would love to assist you. I strongly advise AGAINST buying the "great deal" internet instrument!!! (See "Parent's Guide to V.S.O's" below.) You often get what you pay for- what may seem like a great deal, unfortunately, often turns out to be poorly set up and unplayable.
A thought about electric blue or sparkly pink instruments (or any other fun color)...I would again advise AGAINST these instruments. Usually the best thing they have going for them is the color. They are most often poorly made, hard to play and rarely stay in tune.
It is important to take your child with you to the store to try out several instruments before making a decision. The following is a list of some professional and reputable string instruments renter/dealers that I can recommend:
Samuel Kolstein and Son
795 Foxhurst Road, Baldwin, 11510; 516.546.9300
The Long Island Violin Shop-Charles Rufino, violin maker
8 Elm Street - Huntington, NY 11743; 855.343.3535
David Herman
1511 Dieman Ln, East Meadow, NY; 516.292.8994
Huggler Violins, Inc
471 S Wellwood Avenue, Lindenhurst, NY 11757; 631.312.0842
David Gage String Instruments
36 Walker Street New York, NY 10013; (212).274.1322
http://www.davidgage.com/rentals.php
Lewis Music
278 Jericho Turnpike, Mineola, NY 11501; (516) 742-3961
The following stores also sell books and supplies-
Cremona Music
3607 162nd St, Flushing, NY 11358; 718.939.2525
Oceanside Music
2879 Long Beach Rd, Oceanside, NY 11572; 516.766.0409
Wright Music, Inc.
5 Main Street, Port Washington, NY 11050; 516.883.0043
Universal Music
272 Merrick Rd, Lynbrook; 516.593.8940