Instruments come in various sizes. The size is determined by the player’s height, arm length and hand size. We would be glad to fit you here if the teacher has not suggested the appropriate size.  If you are unable to come into our Shop, please see our sizing chart. (link to video and chart)

If you are just starting out, it is better to rent. Allow yourself a minimum of three to six months to find out if you really have the desire, motivation and time to play.  Your rental payments will build up like equity during this time.  Once you are a committed player, it may be better to purchase.  Your rental accumulation can be applied toward a purchase.  (link to video and other faq)

If you are an accomplished player or simply have been playing for a while and are not in the position to buy, we do offer upgraded rentals. (link to rental price chart)

Your rental includes a free method book, up to a $10.00 value.  In addition to the instrument, a bow, case and rosin are provided.   Violins/violas come with a shoulder rest sponge, and cellos/basses come with a slip stop.

Accident insurance covers loss by fire, theft and any accidental damage.

If your instrument is stolen, you will need to file a police report and forward a copy to us.

If your instrument is severely damaged, your insurance rate may increase.  Examples include broken instrument necks, and splintered or cracked instruments.  (link to video and insurance form blurb.)

String replacement is covered with your rental fees; this applies to broken and old strings.  Please keep your fingernails short; this will lengthen the life of your strings.

If your instrument needs repair, you or your teacher will need to contact us.  We will provide a replacement instrument for you if necessary.

Please inform your orchestra director if your child would like to switch, then give us a call to arrange for the exchange.

Your teacher will tell you when you are ready to upsize.  We are always happy to size you here at the Shop as well. (link to video)

When you are a committed player, it’s time to consider your options.  The rental equity you’ve accumulated can be applied toward the purchase of any instrument, bow and/or case.  (link to video and terms of purchase)

It is less expensive to purchase fractional-size instruments (anything smaller than the 4/4 version) and trade in for larger sizes as needed, if you goal is to eventually own a 4/4 instrument.  The best time to purchase a fractional-size instrument is right when the player moves into a new size.  This way, you get the most use out of that equipment before trading in for the next size.

Instrument purchases come with one year of free maintenance.  This first year perk covers general maintenance.  Some examples of regular maintenance include adjustments to the set-up (pegs, bridge, soundpost, nut), repair of open seams, and a free professional cleaning/polishing.

It does not cover varnish touch up, strings replacement, bow rehairing, or repair from any damage incurred.

Austin’s allows you to apply what rental money you have accumulated (up to $1,000.00) toward 30% of the instrument’s purchase price.  You can apply rental money up to 20% of the purchase price of a case or bag, and finally up to 10% of the purchase price of a bow.  Instruments and bows may be traded in for larger sizes, or for pieces of higher value.  This means the player can improve the quality of their equipment as their skill improves. (link to video and terms of purchase)

No, rental accumulation can only be applied toward instruments, bows and/or cases.

We have many coupons and sales throughout the year for accessories.  Please check our website for these.

Austin’s offers a weekly courier service. Our courier service is free to select schools and studios. We also make house deliveries within the area; there is a $10 fee for any home delivery. Books, accessories, and instrument deliveries/exchanges can all be made with this service. Please contact us to arrange for needed deliveries, and we can coordinate when our courier will be in your area that week.