How To Pick an Instrument

Four Factors to Consider

  • Ease – Some instruments are easier to sound better at faster. There is a spectrum. On one end are instruments like the autoharp and harmonica, on which it is very difficult or impossible to play a wrong note! On the other end are instruments that require more patience to sound “good” on, such as the violin. 

  • Versatility – Certain instruments simply sound better in more contexts than others. One can hear the piano and guitar in all major disciplines. Bagpipes, not so much.

  • Size – Size matters, especially if you live in an apartment or anticipate traveling with your instrument.

  • Cost – Instruments vary widely in cost. While budget options abound, cheaper instruments are often harder to play.

Mr. G’s Beginner Recommendations

Ukulele

  • Simple chord shapes. Manageable size. Low string tension. Cheery sound. You can sound great on the ukulele in less than half the time it takes to sound great on the guitar. The ukulele is also versatile; despite popular misconception, it can be played in nearly every genre (not just Hawaiian music).

  • A quality ukelele is available for less than $100.

Electric Bass

  • Generally played one note at a time (unlike guitar and ukulele, which require chords), the bass is a fantastic option if your intention is to join a group of existing music makers or play in as many genres as possible. It is supportive and rhythmic and, for those reasons, unintimidating.

  • A decent bass guitar and electric amp (speaker) set-up, including required accessories like a cable and strap, cost at least a few hundred dollars.

Piano

  • Arguably the world’s most versatile instrument, the piano stands on its own and supports others. One can visualize note patterns, making music theory comparatively easier to learn.

  • Keyboard, stand, bench and amp (speaker) generally run at least a few hundred dollars, though a quality set-up can cost upwards of a thousand.

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