How to choose the right instrument for you

Many people are fascinated by the idea of music but are overwhelmed by the options of instruments available, not knowing which one to pick up and learn. If that's where you find yourself, don't worry, we're here to help!

The idea of picking the perfect instrument can be quite daunting for a complete newbie. But if there's anything to know, it's this - there's no such thing as the "perfect instrument" for anyone. Yes, many might struggle with certain instruments, and you won't always succeed with every new skill you go to learn. But there is always the possibility of learning to play more than a single instrument if one has the courage and passion to learn. Although some people may prefer sticking to a single instrument for life, others may find themselves excelling in multiple.

That being said, we want you to know that there may not be a single perfect instrument for you, but based on a few factors and self assessments, it is possible to conclude on which one you'd like to start your musical journey with.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing the right instrument for you.

Your music taste and interests

This is a crucial thing to determine right at the get go. What kind of music do you resonate with? Do you have a particular genre or certain artists that you love? Are you someone who would happily attend a classical concert or a jazz gig? Do you like head banging to your rock favourites or humming a calming tune?

Do you have any prior music knowledge or experience that may influence your choice of music and instrument? Maybe you've learned an instrument for your school band or as a hobby at a younger age, and either liked it or absolutely hated it. Keep all these things in mind when deciding on what instrument could be the right one for you.

Experimenting and experience

Experimenting with musical instruments is a great way to get a feel of different instruments and determine which one/s you can handle better than others. Trying before buying or investing is an important stage that must not be skipped. Go to a music store and try your hand at a few instruments, or borrow some from friends and family. You could also take a few demo classes to gain a basic understanding of the learning involved with each instrument in the long run.

Take time to spend with different instruments to gauge which one resonates with you musically, mentally, emotionally, and physically.

Budget

Knowing your budget is extremely important when it comes to picking an instrument even if you're not planning on purchasing it immediately. While some instruments are pretty inexpensive or can be purchased in a range of prices, others can mean quite the investment. Understanding your budget will also play a role in choosing an instrument, and should be considered well. It is also necessary to remember that purchasing an instrument is not the end of the costs towards it. Many instruments require regular maintenance, servicing, tuning and so on. In addition to this, if you are planning on taking up lessons or classes, there will be additional costs of tutoring, educational materials, etc.

Time

The time that you will require to spend on your instrument will depend on the future goals you have in music. Is it a hobby? Are you interested in picking up a new skill? Are you looking to turn music into a profession? Your ambitions will ultimately determine the amount of time that you would ideally need to dedicate to your chosen instrument/s.

Consulting Experts

Consulting experts and professionals will help you to get a better understanding of various pros and cons of instruments. Whether it is professionals at the music store, experienced teachers, musicians, performers and even advanced-level students, seeking guidance and advice will always help you to get a different perspective. They may be able to provide you with insights and recommendations based on your goals and interests.

Ultimately, the decision lies in your hands. Based on all the above criteria, choose an instrument that speaks to you the most; the one that you enjoy the most, or the one that sparks your curiosity and creativity. Finally, it is your curiosity to learn, your passion and personal interest that will motivate you in your musical journey.