These instruments include a wide range of sizes including child-sized and full-sized violins, violas, cellos, and double basses.
HMS has opened applications for free long-term loans of the instruments, following the award of a £600,000 Arts Council capital grant. This 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.
Councillor Steve Forster, the County Council’s Executive Member for Education, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative:
“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 Hampshire Music Service Stringed Instrument Opportunity.