General Information

Local Stores and Rentals


Renting or Buying an Instrument

If you are a child beginner, I recommend renting an instrument before you make a big investment to see if you even like playing the violin at all. If you are sure you want to play the violin, go ahead and buy one because it will be a cheaper investment than renting.
It will cost a minimum of $20/month (very inexpensive), plus a deposit to rent at either CK Violins or the Music Center of Hawaii. Both stores are located across Bank of Hawaii near Ward Warehouse, about two buildings away from my studio! Do mention my name when you go in, they know me well.

Unfortunately, many poor quality instruments and crooks are out there. I recommend and endorse only the following local businesses in complete faith:



Recommended Local Violin Shops in Honolulu, HI


C K Violins                    
250 Ward Ave #220, Honolulu, HI 96814   
Website: http://ckviolinshawaii.com   
Telephone: (808) 589-1188
Owner's Name: Nicholas Zou
Hours: After 1pm, or by appointment anytime.
For a google map, click here
CK Violins rents and sells stringed instruments, repairs, bow rehairs, limited sheet music.


Music Center of Hawaii     
851 Pohukaina St. #F, Honolulu, HI 96813     
Telephone: (808) 596-8742 
For a google map, click here
Music Center has all sheet music and accessories. They also rent and sell all orchestral and band instruments, minor repairs, bow rehairs.


Global Music Supply
2758 S. King St. Ste. 102, Honolulu, HI 96816
Telephone: (808) 949-8863
For a google map, click here
They sell and rent band and stringed instruments. Some sheet music or supplies.



Students: If you are interested in purchasing an instrument, please come talk to me first. We will want to compare all violins in your price range from all recommended stores.
Some students purchase instruments online, but DON'T DO IT! It can be tough because it's hard to try them out. Don't ever pick a violin just for its looks in a magazine catalogue or online! It's the SOUND and fit that matters most.

If you intend to purchase an instrument or upgrade to a nicer one, please show it to me and have me try it out, or I will go with you to the violin shop. It is a big investment; remember that each instrument is different so we need to find the right fit for you or your child. It does take time, and you have to try out many.