Instrument Rental

Flexible, affordable rentals for pianos, strings, brass and wood-wind — trusted since 1864.

Hickies store circa 1864

Since 1864

We’ve provided musicians, schools and venues with quality instruments for more than 160 years.

Customer arranging a rental

Steps to Renting

Pick an instrument, pay a refundable deposit, set up your direct-debit via GoCardless — and start playing.

Browse instruments

Why rent with us?

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Rent-to-Buy Discount

Up to six months hire & your deposit come off the purchase price.

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Top Brands

Yamaha, Roland, Kawai & Stentor — fully serviced before hire.

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Maintenance Included

Free servicing for the duration of your rental.

No Time Limit

Keep renting as long as you like at the same rate.

Choose your instrument

Premium acoustic piano

Acoustic Piano (Tier 3)

Yamaha & Kawai premium uprights with a rich, concert-grade tone.

Rental Rate£85 / month
Deposit£170
Min Period6 months
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Yamaha B1 piano

Acoustic Piano (Tier 2)

Compact Yamaha B1 — perfect for learners.

Rental Rate£65 / month
Deposit£130
Min Period6 months
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Standard acoustic piano

Acoustic Piano (Tier 1)

Economical upright — authentic feel at a budget-friendly price.

Rental Rate£50 / month
Deposit£100
Min Period6 months
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Digital piano

Digital Piano

88-key Yamaha & Roland digitals with headphone output and onboard voices.

Rental Rate£35 / month
Deposit£70
Min Period6 months
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Student violin

Student Violin

Affordable Stentor violins in every student size.

Rental Rate£8 / month
Deposit£16
Min Period3 months
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Student cello

Student Cello

Stentor cellos with a beautiful tone — multiple sizes available.

Rental Rate£17 – 20 / month
Deposit£34 – 40
Min Period3 months
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I use my rent-to-buy discount?

Return your rental and choose a new instrument of the same type; we’ll deduct up to six months hire plus your deposit.

Can I apply the discount to a different instrument type?

No — it must be the same type (e.g. piano for piano).

What quality are the instruments?

All stock comes from Yamaha, Roland, Kawai and Stentor, serviced by qualified technicians.

What if my instrument is stolen?

You’d be liable for replacement, although most household insurance covers instruments.

How do I end my rental?

Return the instrument to our Reading or Tiverton branch (call to arrange piano collection). We’ll cancel your direct-debit once it’s back.

Do I keep my discount if I buy later?

Yes — your discount remains valid for six months after you end the rental.