BIDE Academy

Getting an instrument

Rental Info

Three ways to put an instrument in your student's hands — and help available for every family.

  • Rent

    Monthly rent-to-own plans from an approved retailer. Most families start here — repairs are usually included and you can switch instruments if your student changes their mind.

    • · $25–$45 per month
    • · Maintenance usually included
    • · Best for most beginners

  • Buy

    Purchasing outright can cost less over several years if you are confident your student will stick with band. Please check with a director before buying online.

    • · $400–$1,200 up front
    • · You handle maintenance
    • · Best for committed players

  • School Loan

    The school owns tubas, euphoniums, percussion equipment and a limited number of other instruments. There is a small annual maintenance fee that can be waived.

    • · $0–$50 per year
    • · School handles repairs
    • · Best for large instruments

Side by side

Comparison of renting, buying and school-loaned instruments
OptionCostMaintenanceBest for
Rent$25–$45 per monthMaintenance usually includedBest for most beginners
Buy$400–$1,200 up frontYou handle maintenanceBest for committed players
School Loan$0–$50 per yearSchool handles repairsBest for large instruments

Approved local retailers

  • Approved Retailer One

    123 Main Street, Virginia Beach, VA

    (757) 555-0101

    Visit website

  • Approved Retailer Two

    456 Harbor Road, Newport News, VA

    (757) 555-0102

    Visit website

  • Approved Retailer Three

    789 Concert Way, Hampton, VA

    (757) 555-0103

    Visit website

Help is available

Cost should never be the reason a student misses out on band. We have instruments, supplies and fee waivers set aside for exactly this. Send one private email to a director and we will quietly take care of it — no forms in front of classmates, no questions asked. No student will be turned away.

Rental questions