Instruments
Information on the purchase, loan and hire of musical instruments in Dorset.
Instrument Hire
Students looking for an instrument to hire before committing to buy? We have one of the country's largest stock of instruments for hire, offering both choice and availability. Our specialist technician Dave Gassmann cares for our instruments to ensure their quality.
Hire charges (Annual)
Students who receive lessons from one of our Instructors or are a member of one of our music ensembles are entitled to our lower hire rates and don't have to pay a deposit. These fees are applicable from 1 September 2011.
Cost dependent on whether you are attending a:
| Instrument Band | Instruments available | Music Service Lesson | Local Authority School | Academy or Private School | |
| Band A | Violin, Viola, Acoustic Guitar | £30 | £36 | £39 | |
| Band B |
| £50 | £60 | £65 | |
| Band C | Double Bass, Piccolo, Oboe, Bassoon, Cor Anglais, Tuba, Euphonium, French Horn, Special Saxophone, Special Clarinet, Electric Guitar | £70 | £84 | £91 |
How to hire
Most instruments are in stock and available for immediate despatch.
The easiest way to secure an instrument is for the parent/guardian to phone us on 01305 225773 or complete the
Instrument hire request form (pdf, 20kb) (opens in a new window) 
and return it to the Music Service. Please do not enclose any money at this time. We aim to respond within 7 days. We will arrange a day and time to pick up the instrument.
Buying instruments
Dorset Music Service is unable to recommend any specific retailers of musical instruments. However, our team of experienced and qualified staff are always happy to offer advice and guidance on the correct, most suitable instrument for you to buy.
If you have a child currently being taught through the service then please do not hesitate to contact us if you need specific guidance on buying an instrument for them.
Help towards the cost of buying a musical instrument
Dorset Music Service does not have funds available to help individuals buy musical instruments. However we have very close links with the Richard Ely Trust for Young Musicians.
The trust is a registered charity dedicated to supporting all forms of musical activity and study for young people up to the age of 21 in Dorset, Bournemouth and Poole. The objects of the trust are widely drawn and permit the support of young people by giving them grants towards the expenses of musical involvement, and also to organise musical events and activities.
If you need help in purchasing a musical instrument then it may be that the trust will be able to help you. Please visit their
website (opens in a new window) for further information.
Assisted instrument purchase scheme
This is a scheme whereby a school is able to purchase an instrument on your behalf, and thus save you the cost of the VAT. Specific conditions have to be met and not all schools in Bournemouth, Poole and Dorset are prepared to participate.
In certain circumstances, where your child's school are not prepared to operate this scheme, it may be possible for the music service to help you. Please contact us if you think we can be of assistance to you.
Sale of musical instruments
Instruments owned by the Dorset Music Service are not available for secondhand purchase but we are occasionally informed of instruments for sale. Please note that we have not examined or viewed the instrument(s) and items are being sold independently of the Dorset Music Service.
Cello - 3/4 size cello with bow and soft case. In good condition. The cost is £150.00. If you are interested, please telephone 01202 748980.
Viola - Handmade Beijing viola, hardly played (with original receipt). The cost is £300.00. If you are interested, please telephone 01202 741539 or 07757 707371.
