Rentals FAQ
Heid Music Rental FAQs
Before You Start Renting
What is the difference between “rent to own” and “rent to rent” band plans?
What is the difference between “rent to own” and “rent to rent” band plans?
The rent to own plan allows 100% of your rental payments to apply toward the purchase of the instrument. This option ensures that your payments are an investment in the instrument itself. Conversely, payments on the rent to rent plan cover only the usage of the instrument, with no funds applied toward ownership. You can switch to a rent to own plan at any time, but no previous payments will apply toward the purchase of the instrument under a rent to rent agreement.
What is the difference between a “gold plan” and a “silver plan” orchestra rental?
What is the difference between a “gold plan” and a “silver plan” orchestra rental?
The Gold Plan features a handmade instrument with upgraded strings, providing a richer tone and greater responsiveness. These qualities can make playing more enjoyable and rewarding, helping beginning musicians stay engaged as they develop. The Silver Plan features a quality beginner instrument with standard strings. Each instrument is professionally prepared to provide the playability, sound, and reliability a beginning musician needs for a successful start.
As rental outfits are refreshed, Heid Music is introducing carbon-composite bows throughout our orchestra rental program. Selected for their balance, durability, consistency, and playing performance, these bows are another way we're working to provide beginning musicians with a great playing experience.
Bass rentals are available through the Gold Plan only.
How do I know what instrument my young musician should play?
How do I know what instrument my young musician should play?
Your young musician should have the opportunity to try various instruments that they are interested in. The most successful musicians are those who enjoy practicing and playing their instrument. We encourage parents and students to explore our in-store selection or check out our online resources to help make the right choice. Your young musician's school music director can also offer valuable guidance based on the program's requirements.
What accessories does my young musician need to start?
What accessories does my young musician need to start?
Essential accessories depend on the instrument, but in general, we recommend purchasing the following:
• Brass Instruments: Music Stand, Instrument Stand, Care Kit, Method Book, Tuner/Metronome, Sshhmute, Instrument Case, Sanitizing Spray, Valve or Rotor Oil, and Slide Grease.
• Woodwind Instruments: Music Stand, Instrument Stand, Care Kit, Method Book, Tuner/Metronome, Reeds, Reed Guard, and Sanitizing Spray.
• Orchestral Instruments: Music Stand, Instrument Stand, Method Book, Tuner/Metronome, Rosin, and (if applicable) Shoulder Rest.
• Percussion Instruments: Music Stand, Mallets, Method Book, Tuner/Metronome, and Practice Books.
Your school's music program may have additional requirements. To see what accessories your music teacher has requested, go to: Teacher-Recommended Supplies
Managing Your Rental
How will my young musician receive their instrument?
How will my young musician receive their instrument?
We offer flexible delivery options for your convenience. You can pick up your rental at any Heid Music location, have it shipped to your home, or opt for school delivery. You will receive an email notification once your instrument is ready for pickup or delivery.
How can I check the delivery status of my rental?
How can I check the delivery status of my rental?
Once your rental order is placed, you can see your rental status here: Rental Account
If you have a question about your rental, you can always contact us at any one of our five locations, email info@heidmusic.com or use our online chat to text a sales specialist.
When will my first payment be processed?
When will my first payment be processed?
Your first payment will be automatically processed based on the start date of your agreement. We will confirm your payment schedule when the rental agreement is finalized.
What does M&R (Maintenance and Repair) cover?
What does M&R (Maintenance and Repair) cover?
Our Maintenance and Repair (M&R) plan covers all repairs that affect the playability of your instrument, with no questions asked. However, consumable items such as oils, strings, rosin, and reeds are not included.
What is the Instrument Replacement Plan (IRP), and how is it different from M&R?
What is the Instrument Replacement Plan (IRP), and how is it different from M&R?
The Instrument Replacement Plan (IRP) covers the cost of replacing an instrument that is lost, stolen, or damaged beyond repair. It provides peace of mind for parents and students. Unlike M&R, which focuses on repairs, IRP ensures that your investment is protected in the event of loss or irreparable damage.
What do I do if my instrument needs repair?
What do I do if my instrument needs repair?
You can bring your instrument to any of our five locations for repair, or if your child's school is partnered with Heid Music, we can arrange to have the instrument picked up and returned directly to the school. To arrange for repairs or pickup, please call your local Heid Music store.
Can I update my payment method?
Can I update my payment method?
Yes, you can update your payment method at any time by logging into your rental account online or by contacting any of our five locations. It is important to ensure your payment details are up to date to avoid interruptions.
Who should I contact if I move?
Who should I contact if I move?
Please inform us of any address changes by contacting your local Heid Music store or updating your rental account online. Keeping your information current ensures we can continue to serve you efficiently.
Exploring Your Options
What do I do if my young musician wants to switch instruments?
What do I do if my young musician wants to switch instruments?
Switching instruments is easy with Heid Music. You can exchange at any time! We want to keep things flexible because we all have the right to change our mind when it comes to our musical journey. To start the process, contact a sales specialist at any of our five locations, or set up an appointment HERE.
What if my young musician quits band or orchestra?
What if my young musician quits band or orchestra?
The best option is to continue their musical journey with an instrument exchange. Many times a person will quit when they have to choose between music or sports. They also could feel like they are in the wrong instrument for their talents. Talking this through with a Sales Specialist is always your best bet.
If you just want to return your rental, all rental agreements are month-to-month, so you're never locked into a long-term commitment. If your child decides to discontinue playing, simply return the instrument to any Heid Music location, or call us to arrange a school pickup. You are free to cancel the agreement at any time without penalty.
What do I do at the end of the school year?
What do I do at the end of the school year?
We recommend keeping the instrument over the summer to continue your young musician's musical progress. Summer is a great time for your child to refine their skills, and we offer a variety of accessories, popular music, events and contests to keep their interest alive.
Please ensure your young musician's instrument is not left at the school without arranging an appointment for us to pick it up. We kindly ask that you communicate with us to avoid any continued charges for the rental.
Can I purchase an instrument instead of renting?
Can I purchase an instrument instead of renting?
Yes, we offer both cash and credit options for purchasing instruments. Additionally, we have financing options available for those interested in purchasing an instrument while spreading out payments over time. Check out our options online or stop in one of our locations to see what we have available.
Supporting Your Musician
How can I help my young musician succeed in learning an instrument?
How can I help my young musician succeed in learning an instrument?
You don't have to know how to play an instrument to help your young musician succeed. We're here to help!
Creating a structured practice routine is key to your child's success. Set aside a specific time each day for practice, even if it's just 15 minutes, to develop consistency. Encourage your child to enjoy the process, celebrate small victories, and avoid putting too much pressure on performance. Keeping their instrument in good condition, regularly attending lessons, and participating in group ensembles or music camps are also excellent ways to help your young musician grow musically.
What fun tools can keep my young musician motivated?
What fun tools can keep my young musician motivated?
Heid Music offers a range of fun, music-related accessories that can make practicing more enjoyable. We also offer lesson programs to help children stay engaged and meet other inspiring musicians. Rewarding your young musician with new accessories or music books as they achieve milestones can help keep them excited about playing.
What do I do if my young musician needs a larger instrument?
What do I do if my young musician needs a larger instrument?
As your young musician grows, it is important to size up their instrument, particularly for string instruments like the violin, viola, cello, or bass. Playing on the correct size instrument will ensure better comfort, technique, and intonation. Heid Music makes it easy to exchange for a larger instrument! Visit our sizing page or stop by your nearest Heid Music location for a fitting.
When is it time for my young musician to move to a Step-Up instrument?
When is it time for my young musician to move to a Step-Up instrument?
Upgrading to an intermediate instrument is a big milestone in your child's musical journey—a true rite of passage! It's not just about the next level of skill, but an exciting moment of growth and commitment. Most young musicians are ready to take this step after 12 to 24 months of playing, and it's an investment in their future success.
Think of it as a celebration—a time to mark how far they've come and to support where they're headed next. Whether your young musician is in band or orchestra, stepping up to a higher-quality instrument can unlock new possibilities, making their music sound richer and more refined.
For more information, visit our Step-Up page or stop into one of our five locations to speak to a Sales Specialist.