The purpose of the HAMS Instrument Loan Program is to offer talented, young, pre-professional students the opportunity to advance his or her musical and technical development through the use of a high quality modern string instrument made by award-winning Dutch violin maker Koen Johan Herman Padding. A good instrument is vital to an artist’s development - and at the same time expensive enough to be inaccessible to many young performers. Antique instruments command prices that often place them beyond reach. Fortunately, excellent contemporary instruments are still being made by skilled craftsmen. Experience playing an instrument of the best quality lets young musicians gain knowledge and develop standards by which they can judge during the rest of their careers, as well as expand the possibilities of his or her playing. HAMS encourages continuation of the sort of patronage that 18th century Stradivari and Guarneri received, without which master instruments would not exist. Just as our contemporary makers are the Stradivaris of the future, HAMS hopes to unite their instruments with the Yo-Yo Mas of tomorrow. Instruments will be loaned for the period of one year. Students may apply to extend the loan for two additional years (total three years). School Participation: Cleveland Institute of Music DePaul University: School of Music Northwestern University: School of Music Oberlin College: Conservatory of Music Roosevelt University: Music Conservatory If you are a student at one of these music programs and are interested in the HAMS Instrument Loan Program, please have your private instructor contact us at Brandon@hamscompetition.com. Qualifications: - Age 17-26 - Reside and study in United States - Currently enrolled and studying at one of the invited undergraduate college/university, conservatory, or graduate programs. - Exhibit talent and potential for musical growth through study of your string instrument.