How to Choose Your First Musical Instrument

A guide to help you explore different instruments and find the one that makes you excited to practice. HowTo: Family Edition: family how-tos that actually help.

1. Listen to everything. Spend time listening to different types of music. Pay attention to the sounds you like best—is it the deep thrum of a bass, the bright sparkle of a piano, or the breathy sound of a flute? Make a list of three instruments that make you want to tap your feet or hum along.
2. Think about how you like to play. Do you like to be the center of attention, or do you prefer to play as part of a group? Some instruments, like drums or trumpets, are often loud and bold. Others, like the acoustic guitar or violin, are great for playing alone or with a small band. Write down what kind of playing sounds most fun to you.
3. Visit a music shop. Ask a grown-up to take you to a local music store. Many shops allow you to look closely at the instruments and sometimes even hold them. See which one feels comfortable in your hands and matches the size that is right for you.
4. Talk to a teacher. Find a music teacher or a school band director to ask questions. They can help you understand what it takes to learn your favorite instrument and what kind of practice routine you might need to start with.