Which music instrument is easy to learn?
Learning an instrument can be exciting and a little intimidating, especially for beginners.
Let the excitement inspire you to be brave and pick up that new harmonica, guitar, or – Wait, which instrument is the best to start out with?
In this article, we have compiled a list of easy-to-learn instruments that are perfect if your goal is to have fun and maybe even, one day, write your own songs and perform!
Here Are the Easiest Instruments to Learn and Play
Instrument learning doesn’t have to be difficult – In my opinion, it should be fun! There are plenty of easy instruments to learn, regardless of your age.
Top 10 Easy Instruments to Learn to Play Quickly
1. Ukulele
The ukulele is a great choice for those looking for an easy instrument to learn. It’s small and portable, so you can take it with you wherever you go. Plus, it’s relatively inexpensive compared to other instruments. There are many high-quality, professional level ukuleles available and quite a lot of popular music that you can play on ukulele.
It’s a stringed instrument that you can sing along with. It’s perfect if you want to strum along and sing some songs! However, it can be a quiet instrument compared to others. You may need an amplifier if you want to perform with others.
2. Harmonica
The harmonica is another great option for beginners. It’s simple to learn the basics and it’s very portable, making it a great choice for taking on the go. Plus, it’s one of the most affordable instruments out there. The best part is that it’s pretty much impossible to play wrong notes – This is because most harmonicas come tuned to the same key. Everything you play will sound good!
There are different types of harmonicas available on the market, each with its own unique set of features. Some harmonicas are designed for beginners, while others are meant for more experienced players.
Here are a some of the most common types of harmonicas:
Diatonic Harmonica – A diatonic harmonica has 10 holes and can play only the notes in a specific key. This type of harmonica is perfect for beginners who are just starting out. It’s also a great choice for those who want to play folk and bluegrass music.
Chromatic Harmonica – A chromatic harmonica has 12 holes and can play all 12 notes of the chromatic scale. This type of harmonica is great for advanced players who want to be able to play a wide range of songs.
3. Cajon
The cajon is a great choice for those who want an easy-to-learn percussion instrument. It’s perfect for adding some rhythm to your music without having to invest in a full drum set.
Plus, it’s small and portable so you can take it with you wherever you go. It’s a great way to learn percussion and accompany other musicians.
The cajon is popular in Latin music and in laid-back, coffee-shop-style musical arrangements. The cajon is a good alternative if you don’t want to bring an entire drum set to the gig. In fact, many cajon players also play the drums.
It’s a perfect addition to any band setting, providing a unique percussive sound that can really add depth and texture to any song.
4. Keyboard / Piano
The keyboard/piano is a great option for those looking for a versatile instrument to learn. It’s perfect for beginners because it’s relatively simple to learn the basics.
Plus, it can be used in many different genres. The keyboard is a great choice for songwriters because you can write your own songs and sing along. Not only this, there is plenty of room for advancement so you won’t have to switch instruments if you decide your dream is to “go pro.”
Many bands would love to have a skilled keyboardist join them, so there are many opportunities to join a band later on.
Pretty much any style of music can be played with keyboard and/or piano. It is a wonderful instrument to start playing music right away while also deepening your understanding of music as a whole. Music has been written for piano for centuries, so you will always have something interesting to play.
5. Acoustic Guitar
The acoustic guitar is another great choice for beginners. It’s simple to learn the basics, and it’s a ubiquitous instrument that can be used for a variety of genres.
Most popular music these days can be played on acoustic guitar. There are plenty of songs and genres to choose from.
Plus, it’s relatively inexpensive compared to other instruments. There is a bit of a learning curve, especially if it’s your first instrument.
For example, you will need to develop some finger strength and some unusual ways to hold the strings down. However, there are also a TON of learning materials available online for free.
If your dream is to write songs and perform in public, the acoustic guitar is an excellent choice. Plus, you’ll be able to easily switch to the electric guitar afterwards, if you so choose.
6. Bass Guitar
The bass guitar is another great choice for beginners. It’s simple to learn the basics, and it’s an essential instrument for every style.
The bass guitar is like the heart-beat “soul” of any ensemble. It may not be as obvious as a screaming lead guitar, but everybody will feel the deep rich sound of a bass guitar creating a solid musical foundation for everyone else.
If you enjoy rhythm and melody, then you might want to try out the bass guitar. You can find high-quality electric bass guitars since nearly every rock band has a bass player.
To get started playing the electric bass guitar, all you need is the instrument and an amplifier. You can also play the stand-up bass, also known as the double-bass.
This is the classical version of the bass guitar that is gigantic and is played in classical ensembles and in jazz. You can play it with a bow (like a violin) or pluck the strings.
7. Saxophone
The saxophone is another great choice for beginners who want to learn an easy-to-play wind instrument. It’s perfect for those who want to add some soul to their music.
There are many classic, well-known songs that you can learn on saxophone. You will have many opportunities to shine and play the lead solo when you learn the saxophone.
There simply isn’t any other instrument that can compare with the distinctive character and brassy tone of a saxophone.
There are actually several types of saxophone, such as high-pitched soprano saxophones down to deep, brassy baritone saxes.
The best part? You won’t have to learn a brand new instrument, the fingerings and skills are pretty much interchangeable! It will be like learning several instruments all at once.
8. Drums / Drum Set
The drums are a great choice for those who want to learn an easy-to-play percussion instrument. Every real band needs percussion to get the crowd going.
The drums are perfect for those who want to add some energy and excitement to their music. You can find high-quality drum sets and even start with a basic set, then add more pieces as you progress.
If you love to dance and move your body, then perhaps the drums are the instrument for you. The drums are a great way to get active and stay in shape while making music.
The drums can also be a very sophisticated instrument to learn. There are many complex rhythms from all around the world to learn and incorporate into your playing. Different percussion instruments can be added to your drum set to give you a distinctive sound and create your own style.
The most common type of drums are acoustic drum sets. These are the kind most musicians play on stage. The only downside is that drums are definitely loud to play. Hopefully, you have a separate room or garage where you can practice.
However, there are high-quality electronic drumsets that you can play with headphones. Problem solved! You can still get to play all the same types of music while keeping the neighbors happy.
9. Tin Whistle / Penny Whistle
The tin whistle is another great choice for beginners who want to learn an easy-to-play wind instrument. The famous opening melody from “My Heart Will Go On” from the Titanic film soundtrack was performed on the tin whistle.
It’s perfect for those who want to add some folk music to their repertoire. The tin whistle is most associated with Irish folk music.
It’s a quirky and inexpensive instrument with plenty of folklore associated with it. It can be an easy way to start playing a wind instrument.
It’s a very old-fashioned and primitive instrument, which means you will learn how to control your breath and cover the finger holes to create many different pitches.
Plus, it’s very affordable compared to other instruments. To get started playing the tin whistle, all you need is the instrument and some patience!
It may not be an appropriate instrument to play in a band or orchestra, but it can still be enjoyed as a solo instrument. The skills you learn playing this instrument can be applied to any other wind instrument. Tin whistles come in different sizes and keys.
10. Recorder
The recorder is a classic choice for those who are starting their musical journey. It is a great choice for beginners who want to learn an easy-to-play wind instrument. It’s perfect for those who want to add some classical music to their repertoire.
There is a lot of music written or adapted for the recorder. There are several types of recorders available and your skills are easily transferable to the other types.
Plus, it’s very affordable compared to other instruments. There are a lot of learning materials available for the recorder. You can find online lessons, YouTube videos, and even apps to help you learn.
The downside is that the recorder is not always the best instrument to accompany others in a band. Also, it can have a shrill, high-pitched tone especially when first learning how to play.
It is a very classic instrument and there is plenty of music that can be played in every genre and style on the recorder. However, it has a very distinctive sound that does not always fit other genres of music. Therefore, it’s a great wind instrument to learn, but it’s not the most versatile.
More Easy Instruments To Get Started
Here are the 10 best (and easiest) instruments to learn, with some quick tips on how to get started.
Harmonica
Playing the harmonica is easy and enjoyable. You can use it to play a variety of musical genres. All you need is a basic understanding of how to hold the instrument and how to create sound with it.
To hold the harmonica, place your thumb on the back of the instrument and your first three fingers around the front. Put your lips together and blow into the hole in the back of the instrument. This will create a note. You can change the pitch of the note by pressing down on different holes with your fingers. Experiment with different techniques to create different sounds.
You can buy different types of harmonicas that will allow you to play in different keys. There are also chromatic harmonicas that allow you to play any note, making them ideal for soloing or improvisation. With a little practice, you’ll be playing beautiful music in no time!
The harmonica is a great instrument for people with limited space because it is portable, affordable, and can be played in many genres. The harmonica is small and can be carried with you anywhere, making it a great choice for those who have limited space. It is also an affordable instrument, which makes it a great option for beginner musicians. Additionally, the harmonica can be played in many different genres of music, making it a versatile instrument for people with limited space.
Easiest Instruments to Play in A Band
Tambourine
The tambourine is a simple but versatile instrument that can be used to accompany just about anything. It has a basic structure and can be made out of a variety of materials. The tambourine is an excellent teaching tool for the basics of percussion.
Playing the tambourine is a great way to explore the sounds it can make. Playing along to music is a fun way to learn new skills. To play the tambourine in a band, start by sitting or standing in front of the instrument. Hold the tambourine in your non-dominant hand and use your dominant hand to strike the head.
Singing/Vocals
Many people find singing to be the hardest instrument to play in a band. This is because it can be difficult to sing on pitch. However, with practice, anyone can learn to sing on pitch.
Singing is very enjoyable and natural. Your feelings, emotions, and even mood will come through in your vocal delivery. You can use your voice to express yourself in a variety of ways.
If you already enjoy singing, then improving this ability is a natural way to get more involved with music. You can use your voice to sing in nearly any genre including pop, rock, jazz, and classical (such as opera).
Depending on the genre of music, you can perform vocals in other styles such as beatboxing, rapping, and other types of singing such as yodeling. There are many possibilities when it comes to singing.
Singing as a live performer in a group
In a band, the singer is the one who sets the tone and energy for the rest of the group. If you are having trouble with your vocals, try watching other singers perform and mimic their techniques. You can also practice at home by singing along to your favorite songs or even by singing karaoke.
In performances, the singer often becomes the focal point of the audience. The singer sets the tone and energy for the rest of the group. Therefore, if you enjoy people singing may be a natural extension of your natural talents. Even if you’re not a “people person” you can still connect with an audience by simply being authentic in your performance.
Maracas
Maracas are shakers that are used as a common percussion instrument, especially in latin music. They are easy to hold and play, making them perfect for beginners or singers who want to play an instrument while performing.
Maracas are a percussion instrument, not just a toy. However, they’re so easy to use that many people don’t realize how musical they can be. Maracas are perfect for anyone who enjoys the rhythmic side of music.
Easy Instruments to Learn for Children
- Shakers – Shakers are perfect for young children because they are easy to hold and can easily start making music.
- Recorder – This is a popular wind instrument that children learn in school because it teaches them the fundamentals of music and how to play all flute-like instruments.
- Hand drums – Hand drums such as bongos are perfect for young children because they can easily keep rhythm.
- Bells – Bells are a great way for young children to learn coordination and how to keep rhythm.
- Rattles – Rattles are a great way for young children to learn how to keep rhythm.
- Triangle – This is a percussion instrument that is great for kids to play in a group
- Xylophone – xylophone is a percussion instrument that is made up of wooden or metal bars. You strike the bars with mallets to create sound.
What are the best instruments for children?
Shakers are a great instrument for young children to learn because they are easy to pick up and use with their hands. They also make music instantly, which helps children learn how to keep rhythm.
Hand drums are another great choice for young children. They help children learn how to keep coordination while they play, and they also sound great when played together.
Bells are a final great option for young children. They are easy to play and coordinate their movements with, and they produce a pleasant sound that can help soothe and relax young children.
Why Are Some Popular Instruments Missing From This List?
Too Difficult or Technical To Learn
Many instruments are difficult to learn because they require a lot of coordination and practice. The violin, for example, is a very technical instrument that requires a great deal of skill and practice to master. Other instruments, like the piano or guitar, can be easier to learn and are more accessible to more people.
Limited Uses
Some instruments, like the bugle, are not as popular as others because they have a limited range of notes and are difficult to play in other styles. The bugle is a great instrument for patriotic and stirring music, but it doesn’t offer the same versatility as some other instruments.
Hard to Find or Expensive
Some instruments are more expensive than others and some can be harder to find. The theremin, for example, is a very unique instrument that can be difficult to find and expensive to purchase.
Synthesizers and electronic instruments are also becoming more popular, however they can be expensive which might put it out of the reach for a beginner who is not sure if they want to commit to learning an instrument.
For example, the harp is a wonderful instrument, but it’s very large, expensive, and not as portable as some other instruments. Finding teachers who can help you learn how to play the harp is also difficult.
What are the best instruments for people with limited time?
Adults are often more self-motivated and independent than children, so if you put your mind to it, you can learn anything.
However, some instruments are easier to learn than others, especially if you have limited time. The following instruments are some of the best for people with limited time:
1. Piano:
The piano is a great instrument because it is relatively easy to learn the basics. Plus, even though it’s a large instrument, you can find pianos in public places all over the world. You can also use a keyboard to practice at home if you don’t have access to a piano.
2. Guitar:
The guitar is a widespread and popular instrument in modern music. Nearly every pop song today features a guitar. It is relatively easy to learn the basics and you can find a high-quality guitar for a modest investment.
3. Ukulele:
The ukulele is a great choice for people with limited time because it is very easy to learn the basics. You can also practice at home without needing much expensive equipment.
4. Violin:
The violin is another good option for people want to learn a classical instrument. It is also popular in folk genres of music such as country music and folk music of other countries. There simply isn’t any other instrument like the violin, which is why it is an enduring classic.
5. Cello:
The cello is another good choice for people who would like to learn an iconic, classical instrument. It has a very unique tone and some people simply fall in love with the sound.
6. Bass:
A bass is a great option for people who love the deep rhythmic sounds that only a bass can provide. It is a popular modern instrument with deep roots back to the days of classical orchestral music. The skills are transferable to stand-up bass (the classical version played with a bow) and also six-string acoustic and electric guitars.
7. Drums:
The drums are not exactly the most practical instrument – they’re large and often require a sizable investment to get a decent kit. However, they’re SUPER fun to play. Some experiences are simply worth it. Drum players are often in high demand because there are so few people who play drums compared to guitar, vocals, and other instruments.
8. Saxophone:
The saxophone is another great choice for people who are drawn to its inimitable sound. Compared to other wind instruments, it’s easier to learn and less technical. However, it has a rich history and repertoire making it a great instrument for those who want to commit to learning an instrument.
9. Trumpet:
The trumpet is a great choice for those who want to learn an instrument with a long and rich history. It is also relatively easy to learn the basics compared to other brass instruments. There are many iconic pieces of music written for trumpet. If you’ve ever wanted to play a solo in a brass band, the trumpet is the instrument for you. The trumpet cuts through the frequencies of other instruments, so it is an ideal instrument for soloists. Not only this, it’s a common instrument in brass ensembles which are popular in many genres of music such as funk, marching band music, rock, Latin music, and much more.
What are the best instruments for people with limited space?
Ocarina
Ocarinas are great instruments for people with limited space because they are easy to learn and play. They are also portable, making them perfect for people who want to take their instruments with them on the go. The ocarina is perhaps most well-known for the Legend of Zelda video games, which the main character Link uses in his adventures through the series.
Electronic Music/Drum Machine
If you are technically minded and enjoy electronics and computers, then you may want to consider making your own music with a drum machine or other electronic music device. This can be a great way to create your own unique compositions and songs.
If you love techno or other kinds of electronic music, then look no further – Find a great drum machine that fits your budget and dive in! There are many different electronic music and drum machines to choose from, so you can find the perfect one for your needs.
Learning how to program music with a drum machine is a great way to start out with music production and audio engineering.
Is it time for you to pick up one of these instruments?
Are you looking for a new hobby?
Learning to play an instrument can be a great way to spend your free time. It can also be a great way to improve your musical skills. It’s also a social activity and a great way to meet new people and enjoy new experiences.
There are many different instruments to choose from, so you can find the perfect one for your needs. You can also learn to play an instrument relatively easily, especially if you have limited time.
The best way to start is to pick up a new instrument and just try it out! You may be surprised by how an instrument inspires you to create new music.
