Music service

Learning to play

We offer instruction in a variety of musical instruments in Brass, Strings, Woodwind, Percussion and Guitar

Please contact the music service online or by phoning 0300 100 1800 to find out what instruction is available in your school.

Lessons take place weekly as part of the school day. Pupils attending instrumental lessons will miss their normal class. In secondary schools, timetables are planned to make sure pupils don't always miss the same lesson every week. Pupils will receive an annual progress report.

There may also be the opportunity to attend “playdays” join bands and other instrumental groups within schools. Schools will be able to provide further information.

How much does it cost?

The First Minister reaffirmed in Parliament in May 2021 the initiative to abolish fees for instrumental music tuition in schools within the new Government's first 100 days commitment.

Therefore, families in Scottish Borders will not receive a charge associated with any part of their child's music tuition for the following academic year.

We hope this initiative helps to encourage students to continue their instrumental lessons and indeed encourage new pupils to consider playing an instrument.

Instrument loan

We may be able to provide an instrument on loan, please contact the music service for further details.  

Instrument purchase

As your lessons progress you may wish to purchase an instrument. Discounted prices are available through the music service.

Certain conditions apply. Pupils must:

  • attend a Scottish Borders school
  • receive music instruction from one of our instructors
  • receive private instruction working towards an SQA qualification

To discuss ordering an instrument we recommend that you contact your music instructor first.

Fill out the Instrumental Instruction New Start Form Fill out the Instrumental Instruction Continuation Form Download information for parents

Music service

Address: Council Headquarters
Newtown St. Boswells
Melrose
TD6 0SA

Telephone: 0300 100 1800