FAQs.

FAQs

Instrument Hire 

Do I have to bring the instrument I hire back at the end of each term?

No, unless your child does not want to continue learning the instrument any more.

There's a problem with the instrument, I can easily fix it myelf, is that OK?

No, do not attempt any repairs yourself. Bring the instrument back to us and we will get it repaired by our approved instrument repairers. Meanwhile, we will provide you with a replacement.

Will you have the instrument we want in stock?

Probably, but our stock is not infinite! If we cannot supply you with the instrument we can let you know of other places you can hire from.

Do you supply everything we will need, such as reeds?

We will give you a reed to start you off, but after that it is up to you to buy your own. We can let you know where to buy such items.

What if the instrument gets badly damaged?

As a condition of hire, we ask that you put the instrument on your household insurance policy so that you are covered in case of loss, theft, damage etc. We may ask for you to pay for damage to instruments, so please look after them carefully!

How should I pay?

By cash or cheque please. We will invoice you for the term following the start of hire and then you can send in a cheque or postal order. Alternatively you can pay by standing order. Contact us if you require a form so we can set this up.

What are you opening hours? Can I just turn up one day?

Instrument hire is by appointment only, please ring to arrange a time with the Resources Officer. There may be times when the office is shut during normal office hours.

Swindon Young Musicians

How much is membership to Swindon Young Musicians?

Individual membership is £36 per term and family membership for up to three children is £57 per term. Further children are charged at £15 each per term.

Does my SYM membership fee cover one group or more?

Your child can take part in as many activities as they wish. Check out the groups page to see what takes your fancy!

Do the groups continue through the holidays?

We hold 30 sessions per year, plus concerts. At present they are held in term time only, but keep watching the website as holidays clubs are also held for some groups.

What are the Friends of Swindon Young Musicians?

The Friends are a charity organisation that support Swindon Young Musicians, raising money for sheet music and coaches for tours and concerts plus helping out with all the important refreshments on rehearsal nights! They meet three or four times a year and are constantly looking for new faces to come along and help them support Swindon Young Musicians.

How do I become a member of the Friends of Swindon Young Musicians?

When your child becomes a member of Swindon Young Musicians as a parent or guardian you automatically become a member.

How does my child progress through the groups at SYM?

Each group is led by a tutor and they will decide when your child is ready to move to the next level. However, if you feel as though your child should be in a higher class talk to the tutor to try it out.

My child does not have a uniform for SYM, where can I get this from?

You can obtain uniform from Stephanie Reed the SYM administrator on any rehearsal day or evening. She does not work for the whole rehearsal time so check before hand. The Friends of SYM ask for a donation of £5 for the t-shirts.

Instrument Purchase

I am looking to purchase a new instrument for my child, can I do this through the Music Service?

If your child is taught by a Music Service approved tutor and goes to school in Swindon, we provide an Assisted Instrument Purchase Scheme, whereby you can purchase an instrument through us and not have to pay VAT. On some instruments this can be a huge saving. Call 01793 487802 for information on approved tutors and the Instrument Purchase Scheme.