Take it away This is a new initiative from the Arts Council, allows individuals to apply for a loan of up to £2,000 for the purchase of any kind of musical instrument, and pay it back in nine monthly installments (with a minimum 10% deposit), completely interest free. All instruments are included in the scheme and, to help musical development and manage costs, equipment and services such as amplifiers, sheet music and tuition can be included within the loan where available.

The scheme, which aims to make musical instruments and tuition more affordable for aspiring musicians, especially younger people and those on lower incomes, is now available in 90 music shops across England, and this number will more than double from April 2008. It is also possible to use the scheme via mail order, so this might be an option for you if you are in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland, or if there isn't a participating retailer in your area.

Take it away is open to UK residents over the age of 18, although a parent or guardian could use the scheme to buy an instrument for someone under 18. The scheme is only open to individuals so schools or organisations cannot use it for multiple purchases.

Please contact Philippa Staff on 020 7973 6434 at the Arts Council for promotional material or for more information. A list of the participating stores can be found at http://www.takeitaway.org.uk