We strongly recommend renting an instrument for at least the first year of instruction.  The biggest reason is because stringed instruments come in different sizes to fit children of different heights.  Playing a stringed instrument is physical and requires coordination.  If an instrument does not fit the child properly, they will not be able to play with comfort and ease. This may lead to frustration and/or unnecessary strain.  Take your child with you to the rental shop so that he/she can be properly sized for the instrument.

We strongly recommend using a string specialty store. These stores are aware of the proper dimensions for all fittings on a stringed instrument and are well-versed in repairing and maintaining stringed instruments in good working order.  The quality of the instrument is extremely important with any student, but especially with the beginning student.  The three string specialty stores we recommend are Antonio Violins and The Baroque Violin Shop.

Note:  When you go to rent an instrument, be sure to mention that you are from Mason.  The string specialty stores are aware of what materials we use in class.  Furthermore, Antonio Violins and The Baroque Violin Shop offer packages that include the other necessary equipment for class (instrument, book, rosin, name tag, music stand, and shoulder rest or rock stop).

Please DO NOT purchase instruments online without consulting a Mason Orchestra Director first!

Many popular websites are beginning to sell instruments of very, very poor quality.  Please do not buy these instruments.  The low price may lead you to believe you are getting a great "deal," but the price reflects the questionable integrity of materials and workmanship that went into the manufacturing. Instruments that are “painted” or coated in “non-traditional” colors are NOT approved for use in Orchestra.

The music industry has labeled these so-called instruments:  “ISOs” (instrument-shaped objects).  You need to be warned that most string specialty shops will refuse to do work on ISOs.  Also, please be wary of internet and garage sale "specials." The quality of the instrument is crucial to a student’s success.  If you have ANY doubts regarding the integrity of an instrument, we’d be happy to check it out before you buy it.