Deciding to Learn a New Instrument
Deciding to learn a new instrument is a big step, but here’s some help to get you started. Whether you’re an adult starting the cello or a third grader picking up the violin, here’s some helpful instrument information.
What Size?
The size of the instrument matters a lot! For children, finding the right size can be a challenge, but proper measurements can help. Playing on the wrong size instrument can cause physical pain and may discourage young players from pursuing music. Adult players more often play a ‘full size’ or ‘4/4’ instrument. More details can be found in the Choosing the Right Instrument Size article.
Where to Get the Instrument?
For beginners, renting an instrument is often a better choice than buying outright. Here’s why:
- You might not like it.
- That’s totally okay! Don’t waste your money on a hobby that doesn’t bring you or your child joy.
- You might grow out of it.
- Many rental programs offer trade-ins when sizing up, allowing you to save money for a better-quality instrument in the future.
- The resale market for smaller beginner instruments is not as stable as it is for full-size, high-quality instruments.
J. Rieck Music offers a rent-to-own program where rental payments contribute toward ownership. Rental instruments also include full repairs, covering structural issues like broken strings, bridges, or pegs.
What Do I Need?
Most beginner-level instruments come with the basics, but just in case they don’t, here’s a checklist:
You will need:
- The instrument, of course
- Rosin
- Bow
- Case
- Polishing cloth
You might want:
- Book
- Shoulder rest / sponge
- Rock stop
If you are renting, the necessary items should be included. If you are purchasing, look for an “outfit,” which means the instrument comes with all essential accessories.
How Do I Learn This Instrument?
There are several ways to learn a new instrument. Children may be able to take classes through their school program, though not every school offers orchestra. If a school program isn’t available, private lessons in the community can be a great alternative.
For adults looking to start or return to playing, there are two main options:
- Self-teaching: YouTube videos, online tutorials, and mobile apps offer a wealth of learning resources, especially for non-classical styles.
- Private lessons: In-person or online lessons provide structured guidance, particularly for classical music.
Hopefully, this gives you a good starting point for your musical journey! If you have any questions, feel free to contact J. Rieck Music by phone, email, or visit us in person!