At Knapp Music we believe that providing great rentals is the most important thing that we do.  We have a philosophy of business that keeps things simple.  

  • We buy and maintain great instruments.  We place the same emphasis on the quality and performance of our fractional-size rentals that we place on our full size instruments.  

  • We offer these instruments to customers nationwide through a simple and affordable rental program.  

  • We stay away from complicated leasing and pricing structures.  

  • And always, we put quality first.  Our customers and their teachers expect it.

Rental Pricing

  • Violins          $22/month      (1/16, 1/10, 1/8, 1/4, 1/2, 3/4, 4/4 sizes)
  • Violas            $27/month       (12", 13", 14", 15", 15 1/2", 16")
  • Cellos            $35-40/month   (1/10, 1/8, 1/4,1/2,3/4, 4/4 sizes)
  • Basses           $50-60/month  (1/4, 1/2, 3/4 sizes)

Wind Instruments:  We have a limited supply of flutes, trumpets, trombones, saxophones, clarinets for rent or sale.  Call for information.  Rental rates range from $20-35/month for these instruments.

Rental Procedure

In the Indianapolis Area:

  • Call Knapp Music at 317-892-5130 or 800-963-6526
  • You may visit our Shop in Pittsboro Indiana (by appointment) to pick up your instrument or ask about delivery options to many locations

Outside of the Indianapolis Area:

  • Call Knapp Music at 317-892-5130 or 800-963-6526
  • Provide us with your instrument needs and shipping information
  • Credit cards accepted
  • Instruments will be shipped by UPS

Rental Policy Overview (Stringed Instruments)

  • All rentals include instrument, case, bow, and rosin.  Shoulder pads/rests not included but available for purchase
  • There is no obligation to purchase the instrument you rent
  •  Rental fees may be applied toward purchase of your rental instrument or a step-up instrument — up to $300 for violins, $450 for cellos, and $600 for basses.  
  • Instruments may be returned at any time and you only pay for the time that you've had the instrument
  • No added costs to exchange instruments (for example transitioning to larger sizes).  If you are outside of the Indy area, there is a nominal shipping fee.
  • Pay by credit card or check -- monthly or quarterly
  • Instruments can be shipped anywhere in the U.S.  Customer is responsible for shipping costs.  We cannot ship Basses.  Cellos can be shipped to some locations but not all.

Liability and Repair

Knapp Music covers all general maintenance and repair required for the rental instruments with the exception of strings and bow repair/rehair charges.  Any major repairs or restoration necessary due to damage that is not expected by normal play-wear will be completed at wholesale cost to the renter.
**** All maintenance must be completed by Knapp Music
**** We do not provide insurance for any rentals.  

Size Exchanges and Step-Ups

Please call or email us to request a change in size or quality.  If you are in the Indianapolis area, please call us about 3 hours before visiting our shop so that we can prepare your instrument.  If you are outside of the Indianapolis area, we will ship you a size-up or step-up immediately, and you may ship your current instrument back to us upon receipt of the new one.  You will be responsible for shipping costs.

School Deliveries

We provide periodic deliveries to certain schools in the Indianapolis area as well as Hendricks and Boone Counties.  Call for information.