Choosing an Instrument

The right first instrument is the one a child will practise. But some choices are practically easier than others.

Independent guide. Not an orchestra, school, teacher or agency, and not affiliated with any organisation that previously used this domain. Audition dates, fees and programmes belong to the ensembles themselves — always confirm with them directly.

Practical considerations

• Size and transport. A double bass needs a car that fits it and a family that will drive it.
• Noise at home. Trumpets and percussion test a household. Strings can be practised quietly; digital pianos have headphones.
• Cost. Rentals and school instruments vary enormously by instrument. See renting and buying.
• Teeth and hands. Braces make brass genuinely harder for a while. Very small hands struggle on some instruments at first.

Where demand exceeds supply

Every ensemble has too many flutes and not enough violas, double basses, bassoons, horns and tuba players. A student who takes up one of those instruments will find placement easier for the rest of their playing life, and scholarships follow scarcity. This is worth saying out loud to a child choosing between two instruments they equally like.

Starting later

Beginning at twelve or fourteen is entirely normal on brass, low strings and double reeds. Students who start later often progress quickly because they can concentrate and understand instruction.

Switching

Switching instruments is not failure and is common. A year of violin makes someone a better violist, and a pianist transfers to almost anything.

Trying before deciding

School programmes usually run an instrument trial event before beginners choose. Take it seriously — a child who physically enjoys making a sound on something is telling you the answer.