Choosing the right musical instrument to learn can feel overwhelming. The first questions many aspiring musicians ask are often about age and aspirations. Are you dreaming of joining an orchestra, even a local community group? How much time can you realistically dedicate to practice? And let’s be practical – what’s your budget? Do you have any prior musical knowledge, or are you starting completely from scratch? These are crucial considerations when determining the Best Instrument To Learn for you.
When thinking about orchestral instruments specifically, different families present unique challenges and opportunities, especially for adult learners.
Strings: The Backbone of the Orchestra
String instruments, like violins, violas, cellos, and basses, are always in demand in orchestras. Orchestras constantly need string players, and becoming proficient in a string instrument can open doors to ensemble playing. However, it’s important to be realistic about the commitment. Mastering a string instrument to the level required for orchestral pieces, even relatively simple ones by composers like Haydn, takes significant time, practice, and dedication. It’s not unreasonable to expect a ten-year journey to reach a comfortable orchestral playing level. Furthermore, a good ear is essential for string instruments, as intonation is critical.
Winds: Precision and Competition
Orchestras tend to be more selective with wind instrument players (woodwinds and brass) compared to strings. This is because orchestras typically use fewer wind instruments. Reaching the required skill level for orchestral wind playing is demanding. While some instruments might be considered ‘easier’ to start with within the wind family, orchestral standards are high across the board. For example, flute and clarinet might be perceived as more approachable than oboe or bassoon in the initial stages, but mastering the solo passages and intricate orchestral parts on any wind instrument is a significant undertaking. Personal anecdotes suggest that starting wind instruments later in life is possible; however, consistent practice and dedication remain key.
Brass: Age and Physicality Matter
Brass instruments present unique challenges, particularly for older learners. Physical factors become more prominent with age, as the embouchure muscles in the mouth need strength and flexibility. Instruments like the trumpet and French horn are especially demanding in this regard. While the trombone might be slightly less physically taxing initially, stamina remains a crucial factor for all brass instruments in orchestral settings. Therefore, considering physical capabilities is important when evaluating brass as the best instrument to learn, especially if starting as an adult.
Percussion: Versatility is Key
Percussion offers a potential entry point into the orchestral world, with instruments like the bass drum and cymbals often being more accessible initially. However, orchestral percussion is far more diverse than just these instruments. While some parts might involve periods of inactivity, percussionists are expected to be versatile and proficient in a wide range of instruments. Snare drum, often considered a fundamental percussion instrument, is best learned from a young age to achieve mastery. Orchestral repertoire frequently features demanding snare drum parts, and weaknesses can be exposed in prominent pieces. A well-rounded orchestral percussionist needs skills on instruments like xylophone, bells, chimes, castanets, tambourine, and timpani. Even seemingly simple instruments like the triangle require a refined technique. Importantly, orchestral percussionists must be able to play a variety of instruments, not just specialize in one.
Conducting: The Leadership Role
Humorously, the role of a conductor is sometimes described as the “easiest orchestra job” but paradoxically, it’s the hardest to attain. Conducting requires deep musical knowledge, leadership skills, and extensive experience.
Ultimately, regardless of which instrument you consider the best instrument to learn, the most important step is to begin. Start learning tomorrow. Find a qualified teacher and dedicate yourself to the journey of musical exploration.
