A scheme that enables children in Swanage and across Purbeck to borrow a musical instrument that they may otherwise not be able to afford, is under threat due to a lack of storage space.
The problem for the Purbeck Instrument Loan Scheme, has been exacerbated by Covid as music lessons haven’t been able to continue during the pandemic, leaving more instruments than usual requiring storage.
The Purbeck Instrument Loan Scheme, part of the Isle of Purbeck Arts Club, was established over 20 years ago, and during that time it has received numerous instrument donations and very generous financial support from a large number of local individuals and organisations.
Instruments from the Purbeck Instrument Loan Scheme being played pre pandemic
“We have an amazing collection of orchestral instruments”
Chair of the scheme, Jay Buckle said:
“When the Swanage Middle School closed, the new Swanage School kindly offered to let us keep our instruments in their music room cupboard, but the school now needs this space and we are urgently seeking somewhere else.
“We have an amazing collection of orchestral instruments that includes flutes, oboes, clarinets, bassoons, horns, trumpets, trombones, tuba, violins, violas, cellos and double basses as well as saxophones, cornet and euphonium.
“Sadly so many children have stopped playing with all the school closures – we’ve never had so many in the cupboard before.
“The instruments need to be stored somewhere dry and secure. If you can help, please contact me!”
The instruments are currently on three shelving units, together totalling 280 cm in width, 47 cm deep and 180cm high. The larger instruments such as cellos, double bass and music boxes stand on the floor and take up a similar space
Get children playing again
The scheme organisers say that as the Covid regulations ease, they are very keen to try and get children playing again after all the lockdowns and disruption of the last year.
Purbeck Youth Music and the Dorset Music Service, in conjunction with the loan scheme are promoting string instruments like violin, viola, cello and double bass in primary schools this term with visits from professional musicians.
They are also hoping to have demonstrations of brass and woodwind instruments in schools from September 2021.
“The scheme is perfect for young players starting out”
Jay Buckle added:
“All our instruments are available to local children to hire for only £20 a year, and there is no extra charge if they learn a second instrument.
“There is a reduced family membership and we offer grants to support those learning less popular instruments such as the oboe, bassoon, trombone, cello and double bass.
“The scheme is perfect for young players starting out as they can change their minds (and their instrument!) at no further cost.”
Further information
Anyone who can help with storage of the instruments or would like more information about the Purbeck Instrument Loan Scheme or music lessons should contact Jay Buckle via email
