Who can use OHMI’s instruments and enabling equipment?

​The majority of the musicians OHMI supports are in the UK. They range in age and the needs of one individual are completely different to another – in terms of whether they need a left- or right-handed instrument, or simply enabling equipment to allow them to continue to play their own instrument.  Take a look at our Stories section to learn more about the people who have benefitted from OHMI’s support. 

How do I know which instrument is right for me?​

​We have a wide range of woodwind, strings, brass and electronic instruments (some of which you might never have heard about that can be played through software on an iPad or tablet).

How do I hire a musical instrument from OHMI?

Our standard initial period is one year but there is some flexibility in this if needed.  You can find all the information you need on our musical instruments and enabling equipment, including the Rental Agreement and a Cost Breakdown document on the OHMI Instrument Hire Scheme web page.

How long can I keep an instrument?

Providing no-one else is waiting for the same instrument, we are happy to renew your loan period. Please do not feel disappointed if we ask you to return the instrument after the initial twelve months. Our main priority is to give as many people as possible their first try. This enables them to decide whether to invest in their own equipment and gives them time needed to source funding where needed.  Learn more about the OHMI Instrument Hire Scheme.

What happens if I change my mind about hiring an instrument?

​Our Instrument Scheme is designed to allow musicians living with a disability to trial a particular instrument. It may be that the one you initially choose is not the right one for you. That’s perfectly fine – we’ll work with you to find the one that is.

I'm based overseas. Can I still benefit from OHMI’s support?

Yes, we are happy to support you with advice and recommendations and, if we can ship equipment to you, we are happy to do so!  Please bear in mind, that the cost of returning any instruments/equipment hired is borne by the user.

How do I donate to OHMI?

Any donations, large or small, are greatly appreciated.  If you would like to donate to OHMI, simply Donate here. It will take you to an online form which can also allow Gift Aid to be donated.  Alternatively, we are very happy to accept cheques, addressed to ‘The OHMI Trust’ at 29 Woodbourne Road, Harborne, Birmingham, B17 8BY.  Take a look at the OHMI Donate page to see some of the ways in which your donation might help.  

Can you send me the file to print a 3D instrument?

While the long-term goal is that 3D printing makes it possible to produce the instruments anywhere there is a suitable printer, at the moment the process is much more complex than just getting an STL file and pressing print!  There is much finishing of the printed body of the instrument and additional bespoke components are used to add the printed keys onto the instrument and give them the right action.  If you want to know more please contact the developer Peter Worrell.  Until a suitable kit has been developed for this purpose, please continue to buy or hire the completed instruments from Peter or the OHMI Hire Scheme.