How Do I Find the Right Instrument For My Child

Pick an instrument your child loves!

One of the most important things to consider for your child, is simply, “What do they want to play?” Being personally invested in their music instrument choice is crucial to any young learner wanting to stick with it. We see many children show an early affinity to specific instruments, but after exposure to the other instruments in the group, often develop a passion for a different instrument.  Having a passion and love for an instrument makes the process of learning so full of ease and enjoyment because the practicing factor is just plain fun.  We encourage students to keep trying instruments until they find the one they love the most!  In our rent-to-own program, all of your rental credit moves to the other instruments.*

That being said, there are some recommended minimum starting ages:

Violin/Strings – Age 5 and up - Violin is another common starting instrument for children. Some children begin as young as 3, but 5 is usually the recommended age to begin due to finger dexterity and strength, as children will need to hold their violin up for a long time while they’re playing. Other string instruments to explore with your child are viola, cello, bass and harp.

Woodwinds/Brass – Age 9 and up

For woodwinds like the flute and clarinet, as well as brass instruments like the trumpet, the recommended minimum starting age is around 9 years old. These instruments require a certain level of lung capacity and power to reach the notes and play with proper technique. For those interested in saxophone, for example, one of the greatest considerations is on body size relative to the instrument, where 9 is also viewed as a good benchmark for physical size.

By the Way - It's Good For Your Brain  - Playing and learning an instrument is not just about the physical act of hitting the right notes, it is one of the only activities that engages both sides of your brain simultaneously!

 Piano – Age 5 and up - Piano is a very popular first instrument for many young learners. Starting at age 5 is generally recommended due to hand size, finger independence and strength and body position.

Guitar/Bass – Age 6 and up - The suggested starting age for guitar/bass guitar is around 6. Children that are younger than six may struggle to cope with the finger strength, flexibility and the hand-size required to ensure a firm pressing down on the strings and along the fretboard.

Emotional and Mental Development - Playing and learning an instrument is not just about the physical act of hitting the right notes, it is one of the only activities that engages both sides of your brain simultaneously!

Ready to find that perfect fit for you child? Give us a call at …. or stop by! We’d love to see you

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