The School operates an instrument hire scheme for beginners to give students a chance to try instruments before buying. Only a limited number are available, and hire instruments are not automatically supplied.

How to hire

If you wish to hire an instrument, please indicate this on your Enrolment Form and complete an Instrument Hire Application Form (obtainable from the office), and return it with the Enrolment Form. CSM does not hire Keyboards, Recorders, Guitars or Drum Kits. Percussion students will be advised by their teachers on the purchase of practice pads and sticks.

Length of hire

The normal maximum instrument hire time limit is one year, but some exceptions may be made at the discretion of supervisors. Where instruments are hired for more than one year, they must be checked in and re-issued annually.

Hire charges

Hire charges must be paid before the instrument is issued, normally during the first lesson. Hire charges are based on instrument valuations, and are used to cover repairs and depreciation. Approximate hire charges per annum (including insurance surcharges) are:

• Violins $100 - $130
• Violas $100 - $140
• Cellos $120 - $150
• Basses $120 - $180
• Flutes $120 - $180
• Saxophones $150 - $210
• Clarinets $120 - $180
• Bassoons $150 - $210
• Oboes $150 - $210
• French Horns $120 - $180
• Trumpets $120 - $150
• Trombones $120 - $180
• Tubas $150 - $210