The Seven Most Popular Instruments To Learn

There's a reason why many pick up a popular instrument, but what comes out on top? We find out what you are learning the most.

Whether individuals have been playing music all of their lives or just starting to embark on a musical path of success, focusing, while requiring patience on developing skills such as singing or playing an instrument can be a dynamic process. 

According to CreetiveSoulMusic.com, playing an instrument can open up a variety of doors musically but also socially. As there are abundant instruments to choose from, choosing one that is suitable for an individual can be challenging! 

Here are the top seven rankings of popular music instruments based on factors such as playing difficulty, cost, versatility, and career opportunity! 

 

Piano

It may not be a complete surprise for many music listeners, but the Piano has become one, if not, the most popular instrument to learn and develop. 

With more than 21 million Americans learning piano, globally piano is possibly the most versatile of all instruments simply because it can be played in almost every and any genre. 

Additionally, the piano can be used as a valuable accompaniment or played in a solo setting. The piano will have patience and a lot of determination to understand the notes, chord progression, and varying scales. 

However, once you master it, you may have a great chance of pursuing a strong career that can take you all over the world! 

If an individual chooses to play piano as a focused instrument, most pianists would consider beginners to start with a more traditional piano approach, rather than an electric piano. 

Further advice suggests that starting training as young as six will show more positive long-term piano skills. 

 

Guitar 

The guitar comes as no surprise being the second most instrument of interest for musicians. 

Similar to the piano, the guitar embodies its versatility, can be cost-efficient depending on overall brand and other musical factors and can be used for accompaniment or artists played in solo settings as well. 

Although the piano has been a popular instrument for many generations, the music domination of rock and pop music has greatly contributed to the overall popularity and interest of guitar music. 

In terms of visibility, the guitar can be used and played in many different styles and genres. An individual can play acoustic, electric, or even bass guitar. 

Guitar experts would humbly agree that starting guitar lessons around the age of six is a perfect time to start learning how to rock and roll! 

 

Violin

Growing up in grade school, I fondly remembered many of my young peers playing orchestral or classical instruments. 

Instruments such as clarinet, flute, etc. one popular instrument I noticed that was of interest, was the violin! The violin ranks strongly as third on the list. 

While the violin has been married to the classical music scene for centuries, violins are an important part of several genres. In terms of difficulty, the violin has been proven to be fairly easy to learn and can be purchased in a variety of sizes. 

This notion could be the reason why this is a great instrument for younger children to begin learning. 

Violin strongly suggests the halting from starting with an electric violin. Learning and developing musical skills through a nonelectric violin is very much preferred. 

 

Drums 

Now, be mindful of the loud and sometimes obnoxious banging of rhythmic portions, but drums are a strong four on the list of popular musical instruments. 

In terms of variety, drums are available in a multitude of variations. There can even be an option for an electric drum set to allow quieter practicing sounds in the house. 

 

Saxophone 

If you are impressed and infatuated with the alluring sounds of jazz, blues, and neo-soul, saxophones are one of the most popular instruments within these genres to develop musical skills. 

The saxophone comes in multiple sizes and shapes, making it a perfect first instrument! 

Additionally, you do not have to be so young when starting to develop the skills of this dynamic instrument. 

However, saxophone enthusiasts would recommend starting one’s saxophone journey around 12 years of age. 

 

Flute 

As mentioned previously, the flute was a strong recurrence in my adolescent years of grade school. 

Along with the violin, the flute was a major instrument of choice for starting musicians. 

The flute shows many advantages such as being an easy starting instrument along with being very inexpensive. 

Additionally, the instrument is easy to transport and overall is a joy to play. 

New pop music artist Lizzo, is seen in various performances dancing and playing the flute, making it a somewhat versatile sound and instrument. 

 

Cello

Cello follows the flute with a strong seven ranking. Closely related to the violin, the cello is bigger and is properly played by sitting down. 

The instrument can be played usually as an accompaniment but can indeed be played in solo settings. 

The cello is truly great for beginners as experts say starting at the age of six is highly recommended. 

So, what musical instrument will you learn next?


Most of these popular instruments are used in classical music, so why is this genre struggling?

Is Classical Music Dying?

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