Choosing the ‘right’ instrument

We are often asked to advise parents and pupils on what instrument to learn. Alas, there is no hard and fast answer to this question. One should not underestimate the ‘gut feeling’ that children may have towards specific instruments. It is important, however, that your child is aware of the sounds that particular instruments make and the appearance of musicians playing them as this will influence feelings towards choosing an instrument.

You can help this process by taking your child to an appropriate concert and also by encouraging them to take the opportunity to sit in on rehearsals of orchestras and bands at school and to watch and listen carefully. (Permission of the teacher concerned should be sought beforehand.)

It is important that you discuss these things with your child, as this joint approach will help you understand and support the learning process later.