Some individuals love listening to music, while others are more interested in playing musical instruments. If you fall into the latter category but feel overwhelmed by the sheer variety of musical instruments out there, you are not alone.
Each instrument has its own unique set of musical theories and subtleties that add to its overall complexity. If you have ever watched a skilled musician effortlessly strumming a guitar, you have likely felt a mix of awe and intimidation. How do they make it look so easy?
Fortunately, there are musical instruments that can let you explore your favorite melodies without baffling you with intricate notes. In this blog, we will walk you through some of the easiest musical instruments to learn:
- Recorder
The recorder is traditionally made of wood. The instrument consists of a mouthpiece, a hollow tube with finger holes along its length, and a flared bell at the bottom. The player blows into the mouthpiece and uses their fingers to cover and uncover the holes to produce different pitches.
Compared to instruments like the saxophone or clarinet, the recorder is compact and lightweight. This makes it comfortable for kids to play with their smaller hands, which is why the recorder is so popular in schools. Since many schools recognize music lessons benefits, the recorder has become one of the go-to instruments to be used in schools.
The availability of instructional materials, beginner-friendly sheet music, and online resources tailored for the recorder makes it convenient for learners to find guidance and practice materials. With consistent practice and guidance, beginners can progress rapidly and build their confidence.
- Triangle
As the name suggests, the triangle is shaped like a three-sided polygon. It is typically made of metal. From classical orchestras to folk bands, the triangle is a key component of various musical genres.
What makes the triangle incredibly easy to master is its minimalistic design and uncomplicated playing technique. To produce sound, you simply need to strike the metal triangle with a metal beater – usually another small metal rod. There are no complex specific notes to memorize.
Besides, the triangle does not require precise tuning. As long as you strike it, the instrument produces a clear and high-pitched sound. That way, newcomers can better focus on their sense of rhythm and timing, which are essential elements in music.
The triangle’s light weight makes it convenient to carry around as well. Whether you are in a school band, orchestra, or a casual jam session with friends, you can easily bring your triangle along and start playing without any hassle.
- Ukulele
The ukulele has an intriguing history. It had its roots in the 19th century when the Portuguese introduced a similar instrument named the machete to the Hawaiian islands. Over time, the Hawaiians adapted it to create what we now know as the ukulele.
The ukulele has a relatively small number of strings. This means that you have fewer combinations to learn. It typically comes in four sizes: soprano, concert, tenor, and baritone. Among these, the soprano ukulele is the most common and is often recommended for beginners due to its compact size and ease of handling.
Another factor that contributes to its ease of learning is the soft nylon strings. They are gentle on the fingers, making it less painful for beginners as they build their finger strength. Also, the ukulele has a lower barrier to entry in terms of basic chords and strumming techniques.
- Bongos
Back in the day, people associated bongos with beat poets or the weird music that plays in the background in unconventional theater. But that is not the case anymore. Bongos have become a part of pop culture. The bongo is an ancient drumming instrument. According to recorded history, Afro-Cubans were the first people to use them in the 19th century. It consists of two drums with open bottoms.
They are highly rhythmic instruments, and rhythm is a fundamental aspect of music. Their distinct tones enable you to experiment with different sounds. As a result, you can quickly grasp basic rhythms and build upon them.
Since bongos are played by hand, not with sticks, they are more intuitive for many people. The hands strike the drumheads, allowing for a more direct connection between the player and the sound produced. If you are just starting out, this tactile feedback may help you fine-tune your sound’s intensity and tone.
- Slide Whistle
The slide whistle is a quirky musical instrument that has been around for centuries. However, it gained significant popularity during the 1920s and 1930s when it was used in comedic performances and cartoons to create whimsical sound effects.
It has a cylindrical tube with a piston inside and a whistle at one end. With just a slide and a simple blow, you can produce a wide range of tones. The slide whistle’s design enables players to explore different pitches without the steep learning curve found in other instruments.
It is one of those musical instrument that encourages you to trust your instincts and follow your ears. Whether you want to mimic bird calls or invent your own tunes, the slide whistle invites you to let your creativity run wild without the constraints of traditional musical rules.
The slide whistle is versatile and can be used in various music genres. Experiment with different styles such as jazz, folk, or even classical music. Each genre offers a unique perspective and can expand your musical horizons.
- Electrical Keyboard
Keyboards are extremely flexible and hardly require any maintenance. The keys of an electric keyboard are typically lighter and more responsive than those of an acoustic piano. With this feature, beginners will not have to work as hard to get notes out of the instrument.
Plus, most electric keyboards have built-in metronomes, learning modes, and interactive tutorials, which facilitate the learning process. These attributes help beginners understand rhythm, timing, and basic music theory concepts.
In recent years, technology has further enhanced the appeal of electric keyboards. Many keyboards now feature MIDI connectivity. This integration allows musicians to compose, record, and produce music digitally.
Conclusion
When it comes to learning a musical instrument, age does not have to be a barrier. Kids or adults, everyone can try their hand at musical instruments and become a pro. If you don’t know where to get started, you may pick any of the instruments covered in this blog and begin your musical journey right away!
