Exclusive Renter Program
Step-Up
Strings
Program
You've put in the work — now your instrument should match your skill. Trade in your rental violin and upgrade to an intermediate instrument at a special discount, exclusively for our renters.
100% trade-in credit
Every payment applied to your upgrade
4 violins
Step-up models in stock
Bundle deals
Bows & Cases available
The program
How Step-Up Strings works
Step 01
You're a current renter
This program is available exclusively to students and families currently renting an instrument through Modern Day Music. If you're not sure whether you qualify, just give us a call.
Step 02
Bring in your rental
Return your current student-level rental instrument to us in store. Every payment you've already made gets applied as 100% credit toward the purchase price of your new intermediate instrument — nothing is wasted.
Step 03
Walk out with a step-up
Choose from our curated lineup of Knilling intermediate violins — professionally set up, beautifully crafted, and ready to take your playing to the next level. Add a bow and case to complete your setup.
Every dollar you've paid counts. All payments made on your current rental are applied as 100% credit toward your step-up instrument — no partial credits, no fees. The more you've paid in, the less your upgrade costs. Come in and we'll show you exactly where you stand.
Intermediate instruments
Step-up violins by Knilling
Entry Intermediate
Knilling Bucharest
Professionally setup. Your musical growth deserves an instrument that keeps up — upgrade today to a premium intermediate violin.
- Thomastik Dominant Strings
- Despiau One Tree Bridge
- Genuine Wittner tailpiece
- Ebony Pegs
- J. Rémy braided carbon fiber bow
- Oblong Deluxe ABS Case
Intermediate
Knilling Bolero
Produces a rich, powerful sound with remarkable playability. Elegantly antiqued with hand-rubbed Italian oil varnish, meticulous graduations, and brilliant flame.
- Wittner Ultra Tailpiece
- D'Addario Kaplan Amo Strings
- Despiau Two-Tree Bridge
Advanced Intermediate
Knilling Notturno
Larger and deeper body for distinct power and projection. A bold, resonant tone unlocks a full expressive range — dark finish with gold flourishes makes an impression on any stage.
- Special Edition Perfection Pegs — Hill Style, Ebony & Gold
- Glasser NY Composite Tailpiece, Gold Adjusters
- El Dorado strings with gold-plated E
Master Craft
Knilling Alborada
Handmade by a single craftsman using traditional methods. Masterfully antiqued amber finish and highly-flamed back — tone of incredible focus and clarity for players who are ready for the finest.
- Larsen II Cannone Soloist Strings
- Despiau Two-Tree Bridge
- Fine Ebony Fittings
Upgrade your bow
Step-up bows by J. Rémy
20% off
Get 20% off any intermediate or advanced J. Rémy bow when bundled with the purchase of a step-up violin. Ask us in store to apply the discount.
Brazilwood
Quality Brazilwood
Select octagonal stick with nickel-silver winding and leather grip. Fully-lined, nickel-silver mounted ebony frog with Parisian eye, slide, and three-part button.
Carbon Fiber
Standard Carbon Fiber
Superior strength and stability compared to traditional wood bows, while maintaining a balanced, lively feel. Designed for advancing students and seasoned players alike.
Carbon Fiber
Advanced Carbon Fiber
Master Series bow featuring a select carbon fiber core with Pernambuco or Brazilwood sheath. Fully lined silver-mounted ebony frog with iridescent pearl slide and inlaid eye.
Braided Carbon Fiber
Braided Carbon Fiber
Master Series hybrid design blends the strength and consistency of carbon fiber with the rich resonance of Pernambuco wood. Exceptional lightness and agility with superior wood-enhanced tone.
Pernambuco Wood
Quality Pernambuco
Classic warmth, balance, and responsiveness. Crafted from select pernambuco for rich tone, smooth control, and professional feel — perfect for advancing players seeking a traditional upgrade.
Fine Pernambuco
Fine Quality Pernambuco
Premium, highly responsive pernambuco with exceptional balance, rich tonal depth, and effortless control. Top-tier model in the J. Rémy line — refined artistry for players who demand the finest.
Protect your investment
Step-up cases by Knilling
20% off
Get 20% off deluxe violin cases when bundled with a violin purchase. Ask us in store to apply the discount.
Photo soon
Knilling Embassy Oblong
A fully featured oblong case built for daily student life — durable shell, plush interior, and backpack straps so you're always ready to play.
- Oblong reinforced shell with zippered nylon oxford cover
- Fully plush lined semi-French fitted interior
- Four bow holders, blanket & three accessory compartments
- Hygrometer to monitor humidity
- Backpack straps included
Photo soon
Knilling Rectangular Thermoplastic Hardshell
Lightweight yet robust hardshell case crafted from high-quality thermoplastic. A sturdy shield against impacts and moisture — ideal for musicians on the move.
- High-density thermoplastic shell
- Impact and moisture resistant
- Lightweight construction
Ready to step up?
Come in and talk to us. We'll help you find the right instrument for where you are in your journey — and make sure your trade-in credit goes as far as possible toward your upgrade.