[CatoRenasci]

Perhaps witless in his choice of musician to lend it to, but the practice of owners (whether dealers or not) of especially valuable string instruments lending them to younger up and coming players is a common one, which enables them to improve in ways ordinary instruments won't and let's them find their true voice as a performer.

Many of the Stradivarius instruments are lent either permanently or for limited periods to players.

Even with woodwinds, the practice is not unknown, especially with flutes. Truly great flutes from the first half of the 20th century (esp. Powells) have been donated to foundations specifically for the purpose of lending them to young artists.

[samtheman]

I did not know that. Ok. I take back my aspersion on the IQ of the unnamed dealer.

[AnAmericanMother]

What's more, even with lesser instruments, dealers make a practice of loaning out to prospective purchasers/ young students.

You simply can't try out a violin "in the shop" and make a decision about whether it's the right one for you.

When my daughter bought her "real" violin - moving up from the cheap beginners' instruments - the dealer helped her choose three likely prospects in our price range (and bows that went well with them - another whole story!) Then she took all three home. Played them in our living room, in the school concert hall, the school rehearsal room, with the school orchestra, etc. etc. etc. Found the one she liked, we sent the others back, and paid the nice dealer < shudder! >

[mtbopfuyn]

Yoo hoo! Waving hand here to anyone wanting to loan one of those flutes.

[NotJustAnotherPrettyFace]

My sister plays a Powell flute.