Frequently Asked Questions

Why Rent Musical Instruments? Shouldn't I just buy one?

Buying an expensive instrument in the early stages of a student's musical education is a huge risk. Even "beginner" instruments are expensive, ranging from $600 to $1600.

Renting a musical instrument for the first two to three years of instruction is the best choice for a number of reasons. Often times a student will decide to change instruments within the first year in an effort to find the best "fit" . Other students, unfortunately, drop out of music to pursue other interests.  Resale value of instruments is usually less than retail price, so the financial risk of buying too early is significant.

There is another important reason to rent rather than purchase musical instruments. Students who excel in music and eventually move into more active participation through high school bands and orchestras will likely need to upgrade their instruments after about three years of study (grades 9-11). For example, good clarinet players will want to transition from plastic to wood-body instruments. Excellent flute players may desire to transition to an open-holed model. Trumpet players may want to experience a high-end model or a large bore trumpet. This transition period is an excellent point in which to consider purchasing an instrument. If you purchase the first instrument ("beginner" level) you risk being faced with another expensive upgrade purchase within three years.

Parents who have rented during the beginner years with Knapp Music can exercise their purchase option and purchase an instrument of their choice after they are certain that their child is matched with the right instrument. Their rental payments for the first year apply toward the purchase.

Why shouldn't I just buy an instrument off of the Internet auction services or from my local Mega-Mart super store ($50 clarinets !!).

Buying an Internet instrument from the auction services can be a risk.  They will often need significant repair work.  Our experience has been that these instruments are largely ones that have been in closets for 20 years (+).  And about the Mega-Mart musical instruments -- except for the guitars, we don't recommend them.  We will not repair them or even touch the case should you decide to bring one into our shop to make it "right".  Your student will be forever frustrated by these instruments and will never experience the joy of music!

How much money can I save by renting with Knapp Music?

You save money with Knapp Music in two ways. First, by choosing to rent rather than purchase an instrument, you reduce the risk of wasting hundreds of dollars if your child drops out of music or changes instruments. Second, you save money choosing Knapp Music because our rental rates and rental terms are unbeatable. Here are a few features of our simple program:

• No obligation to purchase
• No complex repair-coverage fees
• Unlimited rental duration (no 36 month limits like most music stores)
• No added costs to exchange instruments to larger sizes. Knapp Music offers an easy transition to larger sizes: student is never without an instrument.
• All of first year rental applies toward purchase
• No complex rental rate schedules

Why are Knapp's rental prices so low?

It is our mission ... affordable top-quality instruments. Our business is not hindered by expensive overhead costs, high showroom inventories, or large sales staff. Knapp Music Company has been doing business in this efficient manner for over 35 years and we pass the savings on to our customers. The growth of internet-based businesses is evidence of the success that is realized by eliminating the high-cost storefront from the supply chain.

Why shouldn't I simply rent from the local music store?

Our experience shows that while customers expect to obtain higher quality service and products from their local suppliers and music stores, quite often they receive poor quality used-instruments and mediocre service. And they pay more for it ! Some music stores in the U.S. are doing a fine job and are well staffed with professionals who are doing a great service to their communities by promoting music at reasonable prices. However, you should shop and compare prices. We believe that Knapp Music can save you money and provide unsurpassed service and advice.

How do I get the instrument back to Knapp after we're finished renting?

Simple - just take the instrument to a UPS service and ship it to us. It will likely cost about $7.00-$15.00 . Insure the instrument through the shipping agency for its value listed on our contract.

Can I buy this instrument after renting it for a period of time, and will my rent money apply toward purchase?

Yes, your rent money for the first year applies toward purchase, and you can purchase the instrument at any time. If you are renting a previously used instrument, you are free to purchase a new model from Knapp Music.

Can I get good quality instruments through rental programs?

Yes, our instruments are popular name-brands such as Holton, Vito, Eastman and Conn-Selmer. We take great care ensuring that our instruments are in good condition before sending them out. We also take extra measures to promote high quality. For example, we use high quality strings (Thomastik Dominant) on all sizes of our violins.  You won't believe our violins!!! 

What happens if I damage my rental instrument?

In many cases we can repair the damage or problem at no charge. Knapp Music will repair any damage due to normal wear for the rental period. Damage done due to neglect or abuse is the responsibility of the customer. Damaged instruments are shipped back to Knapp Music for repair. Loaner instruments can be supplied if necessary. Some high-wear items such as pads and cork will be repaired at no charge for the duration of the rental period. A nominal fee will be charged to the customer for severe dents or scratches.

Can I ship the instrument back to Knapp Music during the summer months when my child isn't in school?

Yes - you will be required to complete a new rental contract at the start of the new school year.

Indianapolis Indiana • 6251 North 250E • Pittsboro, IN 46167 • 800-963-6526

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