Hampshire Music Service to loan 1,000 string instruments

Hampshire Music Service (HMS), the county council’s music education provider, has opened applications for free long-term loans of violins, violas, cellos and double basses.

This follows the award of a £600,000 Arts Council capital grant, which will enable HMS to purchase new instruments and resources, including specialist adaptive and adaptable instruments for special needs provision for use in schools throughout Hampshire.

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Schools and community groups are being encouraged to apply (Image: Hampshire County Council) Cllr Steve Forster, the county council’s executive member for education, said: "This is an exciting opportunity and a win-win situation for music in Hampshire. We were fortunate to receive this grant, allowing us to update and adapt our stock of instruments to ensure that all groups of children and young people, with a focus on those with special educational needs, are able to access our service.

"This also allows us to lend out some of our stock and give even more children the chance to engage, empower and excel through music.

"I encourage any schools or community groups interested in nurturing the next generation of string players to get in touch."

Schools, organisations and individuals interested in applying for these instruments can do so by visiting the Hampshire Music Service Stringed Instrument Opportunity.