Understanding Instrument Loans
For many talented young musicians, the greatest barrier to success is not ability but access to a high-quality instrument. Instrument loans help overcome this challenge by giving promising musicians access to instruments they might otherwise be unable to afford.
Professional instruments are often essential for auditions, conservatoire study and professional performance opportunities, yet their cost can place them beyond the reach of many talented young musicians.
An instrument loan does more than provide an instrument – it opens doors. Access to the right instrument can improve a musician’s ability to practise, perform, audition and compete. Whether preparing for conservatoire study, competitions or professional opportunities, having an instrument that matches a musician’s potential can make a significant difference.
Since 2001, Cherubim Music Trust has supported hundreds of young musicians through its instrument loan programme. Working with generous donors and lenders, the Trust connects talented performers with instruments including violins, cellos, woodwind, brass, percussion and harps. By removing financial barriers, Cherubim helps ensure that opportunity is determined by talent and dedication, not by circumstance.
Today, more than 70 young musicians hold Cherubim awards, benefiting from access to exceptional instruments and ongoing support.
Benefits of Instrument Loans
Access to a professional-quality instrument can have a profound impact on a young musician’s development. A better instrument often offers improved sound, responsiveness and reliability, allowing musicians to refine their technique and express themselves more fully. This can accelerate learning, increase confidence and help performers reach their artistic potential. Today, Cherubim Music Trust cares for a collection of more than 80 instruments, enabling talented young musicians to access the tools they need to thrive.
Instrument loans also provide crucial financial accessibility. Professional instruments can cost many thousands—or even tens of thousands—of pounds, placing them out of reach for many young people and their families. Through a loan scheme, musicians can benefit from exceptional instruments without the financial burden of purchasing one outright.
The career benefits can be significant. Many musicians report improvements in auditions, competitions and performance opportunities after receiving an instrument loan. Access to a quality instrument can strengthen conservatoire applications, support participation in youth orchestras and festivals, and help musicians establish themselves as emerging professionals. For many recipients, an instrument loan represents a pivotal step in their musical journey.
Success Stories from Cherubim Trust
Over the past 25 years, Cherubim Music Trust has helped support the careers of countless young musicians through its instrument loan programme.
Cellist Martha Jones is one example of a talented young musician whose development has been supported through access to a quality instrument. Like many Cherubim recipients, Martha has been able to focus on her musical growth, performance opportunities and artistic development without the financial barriers associated with acquiring a professional-standard instrument.
Another success story is Nia Avenell, who was awarded a nineteenth-century viola through the Trust’s loan scheme. Since receiving support from Cherubim Music Trust, Nia Avenell has continued to develop as a violist, performing with leading youth ensembles and pursuing advanced musical studies on a historic nineteenth-century instrument.
Bassoonist Emily Ambrose has benefited from access to a professional-quality instrument through Cherubim Music Trust. For young woodwind players, the quality and reliability of an instrument can play a crucial role in auditions, performances and advanced study. Emily’s journey reflects the wider impact of the Trust’s work: helping talented musicians progress by removing barriers to opportunity.
These stories reflect a wider pattern seen throughout Cherubim’s history. Former recipients have gone on to study at leading conservatoires, perform with major orchestras, win prestigious competitions and establish successful careers across the musical profession. Behind each success is often a simple but powerful intervention: access to the right instrument at the right time.
How to Apply for an Instrument Loan
Cherubim Music Trust welcomes applications from talented young musicians who would benefit from access to a quality instrument. Applications are assessed on musical promise, commitment, need and the potential impact that an instrument loan could have on the applicant’s development.
Applicants are asked to provide information about their musical background, current studies, achievements and future aspirations. Applicants should be prepared to submit supporting documentation, such as references from teachers or mentors, performance recordings and details of their current instrument.
To give an application the best chance of success, applicants should clearly explain how access to a better instrument would support their musical progress. Strong references, evidence of commitment and a clear demonstration of potential are all important factors in the selection process.
Cherubim Music Trust accepts applications throughout the year, subject to instrument availability. Because each loan depends on the instruments currently held within the Trust’s collection or offered by lenders, opportunities vary between instrument types and funding cycles. Prospective applicants are encouraged to visit the Trust’s website for the latest eligibility requirements, available opportunities and application guidance.
For many young musicians, an instrument loan can be the catalyst that transforms talent into opportunity. By connecting exceptional instruments with talented young musicians, Cherubim Music Trust continues to help the next generation of performers develop their skills, pursue their ambitions and build successful musical careers.