A Library of Musical Instruments, a Super Social Enterprise – Jen O'Brien, Music Broth

Music Broth is a magnificent social enterprise in Glasgow, making musical instruments accessible to people across Scotland.

Jen O'Brien, its co-founder, tells me how Music Broth's music instrument and equipment library works. Two and a half years ago it started with eight instruments – now there are over 1400 items available, from tin whistles to pianos, amps to drumkits, a clàrsach (harp), a double bass and more.

Jen covers where the instruments have come from; how Music Broth generates income through memberships and other revenue streams; its hardship and access fund; how it has adapted during lockdown and launched a no-contact instrument delivery service; and how and why it all began.

Jen also describes collaborations with Music Beyond All Borders, Zero Waste Scotland and more; why media coverage and exposure has been vitally important to Music Broth; its legal structure and why this was chosen; and some of the inspirational people in the music scene in Glasgow and Scotland.

I was grinning all the way through this interview – it was fantastic to hear about Music Broth's truly life changing impact, enabling so many people to experience the thrill and joy of making music.