Instrument starter guide for adults
Any instrument can be learned as an adult. Some let you play simple songs within weeks; others take longer to sound good but are just as rewarding. Here's what to expect, and whether to rent or buy.
Easy start Some patience Slow start
| Instrument | Getting started | Rent or buy? | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ukulele | Easy start | Buy, used or new | Small, inexpensive and quick to simple songs. |
| Keyboard or digital piano | Easy start | Buy used or rent | Look for full-size, touch-sensitive keys. Headphones keep it quiet. |
| Voice | Easy start | Nothing to buy | A choir or a few lessons help with breathing and pitch. |
| Acoustic guitar | Some patience | Buy used, checked | Sore fingertips for a few weeks is normal. A good setup makes it easier to play. |
| Electric guitar | Some patience | Buy used | Needs an amp, or headphones and an app. Thinner strings are easier on fingers. |
| Bass guitar | Some patience | Buy used | Great for playing with others. Needs an amp. |
| Harmonica | Easy start | Buy new | Cheap and portable. Buy new for hygiene. |
| Drums | Some patience | Start with a practice pad | Electronic kits are quieter. Protect your hearing. |
| Violin | Slow start | Rent | Takes time to sound good; a teacher helps a lot. Rental helps with sizing and setup. |
| Flute | Some patience | Rent | Getting a first sound takes practice. Have used flutes checked. |
| Clarinet or saxophone | Some patience | Rent | Reeds wear out; keep spares. Have used instruments serviced. |
| Trumpet | Some patience | Rent | Builds slowly; short, regular practice works best. |
General guidance. "Easy start" means quick to play simple songs, not easy to master. We don't recommend brands or stores. Have used instruments checked by a teacher or technician.
Before you choose
Love it
Pick the instrument whose music you want to play.
Try it
Rent, borrow or take a trial lesson first.
Space
Think about noise, neighbors and storage.
Setup
A well-adjusted instrument is easier to play.
Read choose an instrument and teacher, online or self-taught?, or compare costs with the rent or buy calculator.