Which Instrument is Right for You or Your Child?

Here are our top 3 factors to think about when choosing an instrument for you or your child to learn.

With so many musical instrument choices out there, deciding whether you or your child would like to bow, blow, pluck, strum or even hit can be a daunting task. To guide you on your musical journey we have listed three elements to think about when you are looking for the perfect instrument match.

1. Enthusiasm  - No one can learn or enjoy an instrument if they don't practice. And you or your child needs to be motivated to practice. A great way to help your child find enthusiasm and discover the different sounds of an instrument is to visit one of our Music Shops in Tunbridge Wells or New Haw or come along to one of our regular Try-Out Days. Here you can experience the sounds of an instrument and see what's involved in playing it. Some children like to stand out from the crowd and may be enthusiastic about a more uncommon instrument. If this is the case, think about the availability of an instrument and teacher, and be prepared to travel further to lessons. 
   
   
2. Suitability - Not all instruments are suitable for all ages. Picture a seven year old grappling with a double bass! It's important to consider the effect that the instrument will have on a child's development. For example, if a child starts a brass or woodwind instrument too young their dental development and palate can be adversely affected by the pressure applied by the mouthpiece. Hand size can also play a part in decision-making, Children tend to be very supple so can compensate for a lack of hand size when playing the piano. But for stringed instruments, the right instrument size has to be chosen so the correct technique is developed. Violins and cellos are available from tiny 1/16th size instruments with several intermediate sizes leading up to full size. At Brittens Music we have trained experts able to help with sizing and choice of music instrument to buy, if you would like to book an appointment contact one of our stores or alternatively come in and chat to one of our team.
   
   
3. Cost - An important factor; there will likely be lessons and exams to pay for and of course, the outlay for the instrument itself. If you're not sure whether your child will continue playing, or want to avoid needing to buy larger sized instruments as they grow - the Brittens Music Rental Scheme is an ideal solution. It offers professional help choosing the right size and type of instrument and free 'size' upgrades, so you have an opportunity to wait and see if they will continue, before you decide to buy.  

Benefits of Learning and Playing a Musical Instrument

There are multiple benefits that are influenced when learning and playing an instrument which can help in other areas of life. Several recognised examples include; 'language and literacy development', fine motor skills, improved memory and concentration, creative thinking and imagination. So, when you are learning to play, you could also be building on other skills and attributes too!

Want to find out more?

Drop into one of our Brittens Music showrooms to find out more about our musical instruments and instrument rentals. If you or your child would like to learn, we have a Music School too, contact us for more details.