🎶 Instrument Rentals
At Tolbert Music, we're proud to partner with Music and Arts, one of the largest and most trusted music retailers in the nation. Through this partnership, our students gain access to top-quality instruments, an extensive repair network, and the flexibility of a Rent-to-Own program — allowing you to start with an affordable rental and eventually invest in your own instrument without the full upfront cost.
How It Works:
Visit a Music and Arts location: Simply go to any Music and Arts store to rent your instrument.
Let them know you're a Tolbert Music student: Make sure to mention that you're a part of our program, and they’ll assist you with selecting the right instrument.
Call ahead: It’s a good idea to contact the store before your visit to ensure they have the instrument you need in stock.
A Few Recommendations:
Instrument Care Kit: The store will likely offer a care kit for your instrument. It's a wise investment, as it helps maintain your instrument and prevent unnecessary damage.
Insurance: We highly recommend opting for insurance. Accidents happen, and these instruments are a significant investment — better safe than sorry!
Music Stand: The store may offer a music stand, which can be incredibly helpful if you don’t have a stable surface to hold your music at home. It’s not a requirement, but many students find it useful.
For Younger Students: If you're renting for a younger student, the store may question the rental. Just let them know you're part of the Tolbert Music program, and that your choice has been approved by the director — this is part of our unique curriculum designed to support young learners!
🎵 Materials Needed for Instrument Rentals
Please read the list below for the specific materials needed for each instrument:
Flute: Care kit only
Clarinet: Care kit and extra reeds. Start with a box of 10 reeds in 2.5 hardness. We recommend the Rico brand for a good balance of quality and value.
Saxophone: Care kit and extra reeds. Start with a box of 10 reeds in 2.5 hardness. We recommend the Rico brand for a good balance of quality and value. Additionally, we highly recommend upgrading the neck strap. While it’s not absolutely necessary, the straps that come with the instrument can be uncomfortable during long rehearsals. The Neotech brand offers a more comfortable option.
Trumpet: Care kit only
French Horn: Care kit only
Trombone: Care kit only
Euphonium/Baritone: Care kit only
Percussion: All materials needed should come in the percussion kit, so no extra materials are required.
Violin: Proper sizing is crucial! Violins come in different sizes, so please ensure your student is sized correctly. As they grow, they can exchange it for the next size. Additionally, please purchase a shoulder rest, which greatly helps with proper instrument positioning.
Viola: Proper sizing is crucial! Violas come in different sizes, so please ensure your student is sized correctly. As they grow, they can exchange it for the next size. Also, please purchase a shoulder rest to aid in holding the instrument properly.
Cello: Proper sizing is crucial! Cellos come in different sizes, so please ensure your student is sized correctly. As they grow, they can exchange it for the next size. Additionally, please purchase a "Strap Stop" — a simple but effective tool that helps hold the instrument in place. Avoid the “Rock Stops”, as they wear out quickly. The strap version is more durable and secure.
Bass: Proper sizing is crucial! Basses come in different sizes, so ensure your student is sized correctly. As they grow, they can exchange it for the next size.