North Ayrshire Council 'borrow a guitar' scheme launches in Saltcoats

A special performance in the library featuring guitarists from local secondary schools accompanied by the North Ayrshire Chamber Strings Ensemble celebrated the expansion.

The initiative first came to Irvine’s Harbour Arts Centre, Kilbirnie Library and Kilwinning Library as the council launched its partnership with We Make Music Scotland’s Music Libraries programme.

Anyone can visit the library and ask to borrow a guitar under the scheme (Image: Charlie Gilmour)

Councillor Alan Hill, NAC's cabinet member for communities and islands, said: “We are delighted to be extending this initiative to the Three Towns.

“This is a great opportunity to learn something new - boosting your confidence, improving memory and eye coordination, and providing an enjoyable outlet to relieve stress and anxiety.

“The We Make Music Instrument Libraries project is a brilliant learning opportunity in partnership with the Council to do just this… Much like borrowing a book from the library, it’s very easy to do. Simply pop along and register your interest.

“The team will then provide you with an acoustic guitar, its own carry case and details of how to access the easy-to-follow online tutorial guide.

The North Ayrshire Chamber Strings Ensemble played at the launch event (Image: Charlie Gilmour)

“This really is a great opportunity to learn something new so I would encourage anyone interested to get involved!”

Alongside the guitar, you will receive a case to carry it in as well as access to an “easy-to-follow” online tutorial guide.

Simply ask at the front desk of one of the participating venues to be lent a guitar.

We Make Music Scotland is led by Scottish charity, the Music Education Partnership Group who campaign for music education.

* For more pictures from the launch event, see the next print edition of the Herald - on sale from Wednesday, February 8.