Start with the music you love
Think about the songs and pieces you would most like to play in a year. Folk and singer-songwriter music points toward acoustic guitar, ukulele or voice. Rock and blues suggest electric guitar, bass or drums. Classical and film music lean toward piano, strings and woodwinds. Jazz has a place for almost everything, from saxophone and trumpet to piano and double bass.
The pull of the music matters because it keeps you practicing through the clumsy early months. An instrument chosen because it seemed sensible is easier to abandon.
Practical questions
Once you have two or three candidates, these questions help decide between them.
| Question | Why it matters | Instruments that fit well |
|---|---|---|
| Do neighbors or family hear you? | Loud instruments limit when you can practice. | Digital piano, electric guitar or electronic drums with headphones; ukulele; nylon-string guitar |
| How much room do you have? | Some instruments need floor space or a large case. | Ukulele, flute, clarinet, trumpet and violin store easily; piano, cello and drums need more room |
| Do you want to sing along? | Wind and brass players can't sing while they play. | Guitar, ukulele, piano |
| Do you want to play in a group? | Some groups need particular instruments. | Community bands want winds, brass and percussion; orchestras want strings; choirs want voices |
| Will you carry it often? | Lessons, rehearsals and travel all mean carrying it. | Ukulele, flute, violin, clarinet, trumpet |
Comfort and your body
Every instrument asks something of the body. Guitar and strings press on the fingertips. Wind and brass instruments need steady breath and lip control. Drums use all four limbs. Piano asks for relaxed shoulders and wrists over long sessions. Cello and many keyboards are played sitting down; guitar can go either way.
If you have arthritis, a past hand or wrist injury, hearing loss, or a lung or heart condition, ask your doctor before choosing, and tell your teacher. Many adults with these conditions play happily with adjustments, such as a smaller instrument, lighter strings or shorter sessions.
Try before you commit
- Visit a music shop and ask to hold and try a few instruments. Most staff are used to beginners.
- Ask about rental or rent-to-own options, and read the terms on repairs and returns.
- Borrow from a friend or family member who no longer plays. Have it checked over, since an instrument that sat unused may need new strings, pads or an adjustment.
- Book a single trial lesson. A teacher can tell you whether the instrument fits your hands and goals.
- Check whether your local library lends instruments. Some do.
The first instrument doesn't have to be the last
Skills carry over. Reading music, counting rhythm and training your ear all help on the next instrument. Plenty of adults start on ukulele and move to guitar, or start on piano and add voice. Pick one, give it a fair trial of a few months, and change if it truly doesn't suit you.
For a closer look at twelve common choices, see the instrument profiles.
Is piano a good first instrument?
It is a common choice because every note is laid out in front of you, which helps with theory. The main early challenge is coordinating two hands. If piano is your main interest, it is worth starting there.
Should I buy a cheap instrument to test my interest?
A very poorly made instrument can be hard to play and stay in tune, which makes learning feel harder than it is. Renting, borrowing or buying a used instrument that a teacher or shop has checked are common alternatives.