VIOLIN INFO

Having the right instrument at home is essential for learning, and we make it easy to get one. Every Hovland violin is set up, and ready to play at your first lesson. Many families start by renting, but purchasing and trading up offers the best value over time.


Planning to buy or rent elsewhere? Please check with us first so we can approve the instrument. A well made violin sounds better, stays in tune, and makes practice more rewarding. Lower quality instruments often lead to frustration, slower progress, and the added cost of replacing them later.

RENTING

Rental plan

Renting is the easiest way to begin and Hovland rents instruments to students for $20 or $25 per month, depending on condition and quality. Strings, bow, and case maintenance are included, and you can switch sizes at any time as your student grows. Students needing a full size violin must purchase one.


FIRST MONTH OPTION

New students are not expected to play at home for the first month and may use a Hovland instrument at the lesson without taking it home. After the fourth lesson, most students are ready for an instrument at home.


Rent first, then buy

Every month you rent builds credit. 20% of your rent counts toward buying a violin of any size. Credit can cover up to half the price, and anything left over is saved for future trade ups.

BUYING

Trade up as they grow

Violins come in different sizes, and students move up a size about every two years until they reach a full size instrument when they are 14 to 16 years old. When it’s time to trade up, 50% of the purchase price goes toward the purchase of the next size.


buy from us

All Hovland violins are sold at 40% off retail price. Student violins range from $300 to $600 based on the quality and condition of the instrument, bow, case and strings. Buying is the most economical choice over time, and you can spread the initial cost over three monthly payments.


Be prepared

When a student reaches a full size violin there are many options for purchase, and you should expect to pay $850 to $1500 depending on quality.


Selling back

Finished playing? We’ll buy back student violins for 30% of the purchase price (50% for full size).


Find your size

Have your student hold one arm straight out to the side. Measure from the neck to the tip of the middle finger, then use the chart below. If your student falls between sizes, choose the smaller one.


  • 1/8 size = Arm length of 20 - 22.5" (Ages 5 to 7)
  • 1/4 size = Arm length of 22.5 - 25" (Ages 7 to 9)
  • 1/2 size = Arm length of 25 - 27.5" (Ages 9 to 11)
  • 3/4 size = Arm length of 27.5 - 30" (Ages 11 to 14)
  • 4/4 size = Arm length of 30" - up (Ages 14+)

RESERVE YOUR INSTRUMENT

Fill out the following form and we will have your instrument ready for your lesson. Many students begin by renting, but it can be more economical to purchase. You can return to this form at any time to change your program.