Bath Philharmonic Launches Musical Instrument Amnesty to Give Unwanted Instruments a New Life

Have you got an old guitar gathering dust, a keyboard tucked away in a cupboard or a musical instrument that hasn’t been played in years? Bath Philharmonic Orchestra would love to hear from you!

Bath Phil is joining forces with local charity Share and Repair to launch a Musical Instrument Amnesty, encouraging people across Bath and the surrounding area to donate instruments they no longer use.

Taking place from Tuesday 3 to Saturday 7 November 2026, the initiative aims to give unwanted instruments a new lease of life while helping children, young people and local communities discover the joy of making music.

Your Unwanted Instrument Could Make a Difference

Whether it’s a violin that’s been sitting in its case for years or a trumpet that’s no longer being played, donating an instrument could open up a whole new world of musical opportunities for someone else.

Bath Phil runs creative learning projects throughout the year, bringing people of different ages and backgrounds together to create, perform and enjoy music, often alongside professional musicians.

The orchestra hopes the amnesty will help provide instruments for these projects, making music-making more accessible to people across the community.

What Can You Donate?

All types of musical instruments are welcome, provided they’re in good condition or have only very minor damage.

Each donation will be assessed to see whether it can be used in Bath Phil’s creative learning programmes.

Instruments that aren’t suitable or are beyond repair may be sold on or recycled, helping to reduce waste and make the most of donated items.

It’s a simple idea with two benefits: giving instruments a second life and creating opportunities for more people to experience the pleasure of making music.

Where and When to Donate

Donations can be dropped off at the Share and Repair Hub, Second Floor, Redbridge House, Lower Bristol Road, Bath, BA2 3EW.

The collection will take place at the following times:

• Tuesday 3 November: 10am – 1pm

• Wednesday 4 November: 10am – 1pm

• Thursday 5 November: 1pm – 4pm

• Friday 6 November: 10am – 1pm

• Saturday 7 November: 10am – 1pm

Music, Community and Sustainability

The partnership brings together two Bath organisations with a shared commitment to making a positive difference.

Bath Philharmonic Orchestra is known for its live orchestral performances and community music projects, while Share and Repair helps local people save money, reduce waste and reuse everyday items through its repair services, workshops and Library of Things.

Together, they’re hoping to turn forgotten instruments into new opportunities for creativity, learning and connection.

So, if there’s an instrument sitting unused somewhere in your home, why not give it the chance to make music again?

Find out more:

Bath Philharmonic Orchestra

Share and Repair