The Bench
Rent While They Grow.
A seven-year-old will be in a different size violin next year, and the year after that. Renting is how most families get through that stretch sensibly. Philip rents properly sized, properly set up instruments and services them himself — so when something goes wrong mid-semester, the person who fixes it is the person who rented it to you.
What This Covers
Instrument Rentals
Rentals for beginners and growing students
Sized to the player before the instrument leaves the shop
Set up on Philip's bench, not shipped from a warehouse
Serviced in-house when something needs attention
Size changes as the student grows
Guidance on when it's time to stop renting and buy
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it cost to rent a violin?
Rates depend on the instrument and the size, so call the shop at (713) 729-2231 for current terms. Philip will also tell you honestly if buying makes more sense for your situation than renting.
What happens when my child outgrows the size?
You come back and move up a size. That's the entire reason renting exists for young string players, and Philip has been sizing growing children up through the fractional sizes for fifty years.
What if the rental gets damaged?
Bring it in. The shop that rented it to you is the shop that repairs it — Philip does the work himself. Talk to him about how damage is handled when you set up the rental.
Can I rent a cello?
Call the shop about what's currently available in the size you need. Philip rents to beginners across the string family and will tell you what he has on hand.
Also at the Shop
Other Ways Philip Can Help
Student & School Instrument Service
Houston teachers have sent their students to Gold Violin Shop since 1975. Student instrument repair, sizing, setup and school orchestra service. (713) 729-2231.
Learn moreViolins, Violas, Cellos & Basses for Sale
A deep selection of violins, violas, cellos and basses for sale in Houston — student through professional, every budget. Try them in the shop. (713) 729-2231.
Learn moreViolin, Viola, Cello & Bass Repair
Expert violin, viola, cello and bass repair in Houston. Cracks, seams, pegs, bridges, sound posts and full restoration — by hand, by a luthier since 1975. (713) 729-2231.
Learn moreGet Started
Need an Instrument for the School Year?
Call the shop and bring the student in so Philip can size them properly.