Since it launched in 2007, the Take it away loan scheme has helped around 90,000 people to buy musical instruments, making learning and playing music more affordable and open to everyone. You can borrow as little as £100 and up to £5,000 interest-free, which you then pay back in equal instalments over 9 or 18 months, depending on the amount.
Once your loan application has been accepted, you can take your goods home that day.
If you’re thinking of applying for a Take it away loan, did you know that it can be used to buy other items as well as musical instruments? Many music instrument retailers also offer accessories, tuition, and audio equipment – which can all be covered by your loan.
Here are a few examples of what you can buy:
Lessons to get you started
When you buy an instrument, that’s just the start of your musical journey. Becoming an accomplished musician takes hours of practice! You’re going to need a lot of guidance and encouragement along the way, so a good music tutor is essential. If your music store offers it, why not book a block of lessons and add the cost to your Take it away loan. So, as well as helping you buy your instrument, your loan can help you to start learning straight away.
Accessories and extras
Many instruments come with additional extras such as cases. And there’s often so much other equipment to consider. When you’re buying an electric guitar for example, an amplifier is essential, as well as a stand, leads, strings, maybe effects pedals…the list goes on. For some instruments, it may be possible to purchase a bundle that comes with everything you need to get started. The cost of all these things can be added to your loan.
Recording equipment for your creations
If you’re an aspiring music creator, you don’t have to hire an expensive studio to record your work – there’s a lot of equipment and software out there to help you express yourself in the comfort of your own home. Just like buying an instrument, this can be a minefield. From condensing microphones to keyboard controllers, your Take it away loan has you covered.
Everything you need for the stage
You may want to show your skills to the world at some point. You’ll need a microphone and stand if you’re planning to get up on stage with a band, maybe a PA and speakers too if you’re performing on your own.
We know that there are many ways to entertain, and that many budding musicians are also aspiring DJs! If that’s you, why not use your loan to get a turntable to practice on? Other items to consider include a mixer, headphones, and a DJ interface software package such as Serato…the list can be long so make sure you’ve done your research before you buy.
Hopefully this has given you a good overview of what the scheme covers. Our aim has always been to remove some of the hurdles that many people face when learning music, and we recognise that your interest can take many forms. Your Take it away loan can help you to buy all the equipment you really want right now, rather than having to wait until you can afford a better version.
Whatever you choose, Take it away will be happy to help you along your musical journey.
Find your nearest music dealer by searching Take it away shops.