How to hire, and rules
Help and FAQs
Here are some of our most frequently asked questions. Please let us know if you have a question and you can't see the answer here.
Must I use TIMPANI to book my instrument?
We are very happy to for you to contact us with queries or requests around instrument hire, but instruments can only be booked through TIMPANI.
I only need the instrument for a few hours over a single working day. Can I have a discount?
Our hire period is noon-noon in order to make the instruments available for the greatest number of people possible, so we are not able to be flexible about this period. If you need an instrument to be available to you in the morning, it needs to have been returned by noon the day before. Due to our multiplier system, however, hiring an instrument for two days will only cost 25% more than one.
I have a booking clash during a busy period. Can I do anything about it?
During particularly busy periods such as May Week, different societies may wish to hire the same instrument during the same 24 hour hiring period. If you are able to agree with another society to share the instrument, when and how the instrument will be moved and who will have responsibility for the instrument over the hire period, we can allow a shared booking, provided you notify us in writing of exactly what has been agreed.
Will you help me move the celesta?
The celesta weighs as much as an upright piano and requires four able-bodied adults to lift and move it safely. You need to be able to transport, move and use the instrument yourself during the hire period. If you hire the celesta or another heavy instrument from us, it is very important to make sure that you have made arrangements to be able to do this safely for yourself and for the instrument.
Can I transport the instruments in my car?
Only if they will fit. The tap-tune timpani are significantly smaller than pedal-tuned timpani and are the better option if space is a consideration. Even large cars will only be able to carry one or two small timpani; in most cases it will be easiest and safest to use a small van.
I have a question which is not addressed here.
Please tell us and we'll add it. If there is any way we can improve TIMPANI, we'd love to know.
