Last updated: March 20, 2024Hello there, music enthusiasts! We all love music, don’t we? That magical melody can make us dance, that soothing rhythm that can calm our minds, or that powerful beat that can make our hearts race. But have you ever thought about creating those beautiful tunes yourself?
Music is a language that breaks all barriers, and learning to play a musical instrument can be a thrilling adventure, no matter what age you are. But figuring out which instrument to pick can be daunting when you’re just starting. No worries, we’re here to guide you on that.
But before we dive in, let’s take a moment to appreciate how amazing the art of making music can be. Apart from the sheer joy of creating beautiful sounds, playing a musical instrument has been proven to have several benefits.
Firstly, playing a musical instrument is an incredible stress buster. A Harvard Medical School study showed that individuals who played a musical instrument had lower stress levels than those who didn’t. Whether you’re strumming the guitar or hitting the drum pads, creating music can help soothe your mind and body.
Did you know playing a musical instrument can strengthen your immune system? According to a study by the University of California, musicians have higher levels of Immunoglobulin-A, a protein the immune system uses to identify and neutralize harmful bacteria and viruses. So next time you feel a sneeze coming on, you might want to pick up that guitar!
Studies also show that musicians have more grey matter in their brain, which can lead to enhanced cognitive functions. It’s like going to the gym for your brain. Learning an instrument, mastering its various techniques, and understanding the nuances of melody and rhythm all contribute to exercising your brain and making it sharper.
Now that we know how cool and beneficial it is to learn a musical instrument, let’s dive into our top 10 beginning recommendations for beginners.
Starting with the king of musical instruments, the piano, it’s perfect for beginners because you can start playing melodies almost immediately. Learning piano helps me understand the basics of melody, rhythm, and harmony. Plus, you have the keyboard as a portable, affordable alternative to a traditional piano. A keyboard can also add fun to your learning experience with its multiple sound effects and rhythms.
Small but mighty, the ukulele is another great choice for beginners, especially if you are interested in string instruments. Its small size makes it easy to handle, and with just four strings, you can start strumming chords and playing songs in no time. Plus, it is an excellent introduction to other string instruments, like the guitar or banjo.
Speaking of guitars, they’re another fantastic instrument for beginners. Whether the cool electric guitar or the soothing acoustic one, mastering the basic chords can open up a whole world of songs for you to play. Yes, the initial stages might be a bit challenging, with sore fingertips and getting used to the finger placements, but trust us, it’s worth the effort.
If you’re a classical music fan or fascinated by orchestras, then the violin could be the perfect fit for you. Don’t let its size fool you. The violin can produce various sounds, from the softest melodies to the loudest tunes. Plus, learning the violin can significantly improve your hand-eye coordination.
If the violin is the soprano of the string family, the cello is the tenor. It produces a richer, deeper tone that many people find irresistible. Yes, it’s larger than a violin or a ukulele, but don’t worry, you can sit down while playing it. Plus, it’s an excellent choice if you want to play in orchestras or string quartets.
Remember those plastic recorders from grade school? It turns out they’re not just a school staple but an excellent starting point for any aspiring musician. The recorder is a perfect introductory woodwind instrument. It’s affordable, easy to play, and a great stepping stone to more complex woodwind instruments like the flute or saxophone.
Another fantastic option for those interested in wind instruments is the flute. The flute is light, portable, and uses the same fingerings as the recorder, making it a natural progression. It’s also an excellent choice for improving your lung capacity and control over your breathing.
With its smooth, cool sound, the saxophone is a popular choice among beginners, especially those who are jazz or blues music fans. With its wide range of tones, it fits into various music styles, giving you much flexibility in choosing what you want to play. Plus, the saxophone is a fantastic instrument to improvise on, so if you’re into creating your melodies, this could be the instrument for you.
If you find yourself tapping your feet or drumming your fingers to the beat of a song, then you might want to consider the drums. As a drummer, you’re the heartbeat of any band, setting the rhythm that the rest of the instruments follow. Starting with a basic three-piece drum kit can be a great way to learn the fundamentals of rhythm and timing.
Last but not least, if you’re looking for something portable to take anywhere, the harmonica is a great choice. It’s a relatively easy instrument to start with, and you can play various music, from folk and rock to blues and country. Plus, you can even practice it on your commute!
Once you’ve chosen your instrument and started to get the hang of it, you may wonder, “What’s next?” You’ve mastered ‘Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star’, but now you’re itching to explore more. No worries! Here’s some advice to expand your musical horizons.
One of a musician’s most valuable skills is the ability to read sheet music. While you can definitely learn to play by ear or by watching tutorial videos, being able to read music gives you a wider range of songs to learn and play.
Music notation might look like an alien language at first, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll be amazed at the wealth of music you can now access. It can be incredibly rewarding to pick up a music sheet and know exactly how it should sound.
A whole world of music is out there waiting for you to explore. Don’t limit yourself to one genre. Each style of music has its unique features that can help you grow as a musician.
If you’ve been playing classical music, try branching out into jazz or blues. These genres can help you improve your improvisation skills. Or, if you’ve been focusing on rock, consider exploring country or folk music. They can offer a new perspective on storytelling through music.
Playing music doesn’t have to be a solitary activity. Joining a group or a band can be an enriching experience. You’ll learn to listen to others, harmonize, and create music as a cohesive unit. Plus, it’s a great way to make new friends who share your love for music.
Thanks to modern technology, recording and sharing your music with the world is easier than ever. You only need a decent microphone and a computer, and you can start creating your recordings at home.
Once you’re happy with your performance, don’t be shy about sharing it. You could upload it to platforms like YouTube or SoundCloud or even share it on social media. Not only will this help you gain confidence, but you’ll also get valuable feedback that can help you improve.
Nothing can compare to the adrenaline rush of performing in front of a live audience. Participating in a local open mic night or a music competition can be an unforgettable experience. Not only will you learn to manage stage fright, but you’ll also get a chance to see how audiences respond to your music.
Remember, the goal is not to ‘win’ or to be the best – it’s to share your music and learn from the experience.
Embarking on a musical journey is akin to embarking on a voyage of self-discovery. Through each note you play, each rhythm you conquer, and each melody you weave, you’re not just creating music but also expressing your unique self. It’s a journey filled with challenges, triumphs, and lots of beautiful music.
The key is to remember why you began this journey. It’s not about perfection or applause; it’s about the love of music. It’s about the thrill you feel when you finally nail that tricky piece, the joy that floods you when you create your own melody, and the magic you experience when your music touches someone else’s heart.
So go ahead, dive into the world of music. Let it challenge you, inspire you, and transform you. And always remember, you’re not alone on this journey. Whenever you need guidance, support, or even a bit of encouragement, reach out. We’re here, cheering you on every step of the way. Enjoy the journey, and keep the music playing.
