Instrument hire

We would also encourage parents and students to consider buying their own instruments, where appropriate.  This can be done through the EA Music Assisted Instrument Purchase Scheme. This scheme effectively saves parents the cost of VAT through a government agreed policy with HMRC.  Terms and conditions apply.​

These conditions apply to instruments owned by the Education Authority and either used by students receiving tuition from EA Music tutors or used by students attending an EA Music orchestra, band or ensemble. 

• EA instruments can only be loaned to and used by students who are registered with EA Music.  
• A charge of £50 per year is payable on request for each instrument issued to students. Children eligible for Free School Meals Entitlement receive a 70% remission 

Exceptions to these terms and conditions will be as advised by local EA Music offices e.g. 

• Where a student uses an instrument based in school (e.g. double bass) 
• Where “doubling instruments” are issued (piccolo, ‘A’ clarinet etc.) 
•  Where a student has been asked by EA Music to play a specific instrument within the OBE programme which differs from the instrument they normally play 

• The term 'instrument' includes the complete musical instrument together with case and/or cover and any accessories included 
• Acceptance of the hire will be taken as an acknowledgement that the instrument has been received in a playable condition, that all instructions regarding its care will be followed and that it will be properly maintained and safeguarded at all times, especially on school premises and, if applicable, at EA Music OBE rehearsals 
• The instrument is and will remain the property of the Education Authority and must be returned for inspection at any time upon request by EA Music staff 
•  The instrument is issued for the sole use of the person to whom it is registered and must not be loaned to any other person or used for external purposes unless written authorisation has been received from EA Music 

• The holder will be responsible for the replacement of all consumable accessories e.g. bows, strings, reeds, lubricants etc. and any other permanent accessory or integral item present at the time of issue 

  PLEASE NOTE: Extreme care should be taken if the instrument is taken into school. It is the responsibility of the holder to ensure the instrument’s safety at all times.  

• The legally responsible parents/carers must arrange insurance cover for loss, damage or theft within SEVEN days of receiving the instrument. 
•  In the event where loss or theft occurs it is the responsibility of the registered holder to provide a replacement instrument, approved by EA Music, with a period of 8 weeks from the date of loss. 
•  If in any doubt, contact your local EA Music office for advice and assistance  

If an instrument is lost or stolen the full circumstances, including the serial number, must be reported immediately to EA Music. You will then be advised of what must be done next. Be meticulous with information as your insurance company will require full details for your claim.  

If an instrument is damaged, the incident must be reported to EA Music within TWO days so that arrangements can be made regarding repairs and/or an exchange of instrument.  If the damage is not the result of “fair wear and tear” the full repair charge will be passed to the signatory of the Hire Agreement.  Under no circumstances should an amateur repair be attempted regardless of the nature of the damage. PLEASE NOTE: Accidental damage is not considered to be “fair wear and tear”. 

Upon completion or termination of EA Music tuition or ensemble membership, the instrument and all listed accessories must be returned immediately to a representative of EA Music so that arrangements can be made for the cancellation of the Hire Agreement.  If an instrument is damaged, or incomplete, full restitution will be required before the Agreement can be cancelled.