Which instrument fits my child?
A seven-question quiz for parents choosing a first instrument. Answer questions about your child's age, your home, and what is taught near you, and see which instruments fit.
Instruments to try first
These fit your answers best. They are common patterns, not rules. A child who chose the instrument has a reason to pick it up, so let your child hear and hold each one before you decide. A teacher can say what fits.
Piano
Often started at age five and up, or at three to four with a Suzuki teacher. It needs a piano or a keyboard at home. The keys lay out high and low in a row, and a beginner can make a clear sound at once.
Violin
Often started at age three and up. It comes in many small sizes, so a small child can hold one that fits. Sizes change as the child grows, and many families rent.
Cello
Often started at age four and up. It comes in small sizes, and the player sits down. It has a deep, warm sound.
Ukulele
Often started in the early school years. It is small and light, and it has four soft strings.
Guitar
Often started at about age six and up. Small sizes exist, and nylon strings are gentler on the fingers.
Recorder
Often started in the early school years. It costs little, and it is a step toward other wind instruments. It builds breath and fingers.
A band instrument: flute, clarinet, trumpet, or trombone
Often started at about age nine and up. These are often taught in school bands, so your child learns in a group from the start. Ask the band teacher which one fits.
Drums and percussion
Any age for hand drums, and later for a full drum kit. Drums are loud, and practice pads help.
Voice, in a choir
Any age in a choir. There is no instrument to buy. Singing trains the ear, and that helps with any instrument later.
How the quiz works
Each answer adds points to the instruments it suits. The two with the most points show first. A tie shows three. An instrument drops out when the child is too young for it, or when it needs something the home does not have. The quiz covers piano, violin, cello, ukulele, guitar, recorder, band instruments, drums, and singing in a choir.
The ages are the ones in how to choose a first instrument for your child. They are common starting points. Teachers differ, and so do children.
Try before you decide
Play The Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra, which gives each instrument a solo, and ask which sound your child likes best. Many orchestras, music schools, and music stores hold open days where children can hold and try instruments. Ask a teacher if you can watch a beginner's lesson. Then rent for a term. A short rental costs less than a purchase and shows whether the interest lasts.
If the first choice does not last
Many musicians started on one instrument and moved to another. The reading, the rhythm, and the ear all carry over. A switch is not a failure.
Goes well with
- How to choose a first instrument for your child
- Instruments of the orchestra for kids
- Renting vs buying an instrument for a child
- Which music method fits your family?
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