• Rental/Purchase Info

    *Avoid "superstore" and online purchases.  We want quality orchestra student instruments that look like wood and not Skittles or Crayons!


    The best local option for renting or purchasing a student model instrument is:

    Quinlan & Fabish

    2601 Cumberland Drive

    Valparaiso, IN 46383

    www QandF.com

    800-63 SOUSA

     

    Quinlan and Fabish makes sure everything is properly "set-up."   Bridges and tuning pegs are hand fit and adjusted to each instrument.  They make sure that the bridge and string height are correctly adjusted for a beginner.  Start with Q and F!


    Hobart Middle School works directly with them. If an instrument needs to be repaired, you can send it directly from HMS.  A QF representative comes to HMS every Monday to pick up broken instruments and return repaired instruments. They also deliver strings and other equipment when you order it.


    Poor quality instruments leave a student feeling like they are unable to play well, when, in fact, no one could play that instrument well.  Time and money is wasted with fixing them.  Even when they are fixed, they are very difficult to play.  Students get discouraged and drop out because of the poor quality.     

     

    If you prefer to purchase online, please contact Mr. Grenier because there are too many VSOs (violin shaped objects) with fancy Italian names that are junk!  Southwest Strings and Shar Music are too reputable companies that specialize in orchestra sales if you are looking to purchase.

     
    On any purchase or rental, please check that each instrument has:


    1.  Clean, newer looking strings
    2.  Each string has a fine tuner at the end of the string
    3.  No broken or loose parts on the case or instrument
    4.  Bow holders work properly and easily
    5.  Rounded bridge
    6.  Clean full bow hairs
    7.  Case includes rosin