A City of Burnaby initiative is now taking applications to rent musical instruments for those who have a passion for music but experience barriers to participation.
Residents can borrow an instrument for up to one year if approved through the city’s recreation credit program, or have a written referral from a music teacher, school administrator, youth centre worker or service agency.
The city collected over 450 instruments from residents through collection drives, with residents donating instruments including strings, woodwinds, brass, percussion and keyboards.
“Not everyone can afford to get into music, but everyone deserves a chance to learn how to play,” said Coun. Joe Keithley in a news release. “It’s incredibly fulfilling for people to have a new way of expressing themselves and bringing joy into their lives.”
The city is no longer collecting instrument donations, though it is accepting monetary donations from residents who want to help. To donate, visit the city’s Harmony for All webpage.
Grants for Burnaby’s music lessons program will begin in fall of 2023.
