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Best Musical Instruments for Children
Looking to get your child into learning music? Keep reading to find out why learning music benefits children and what instrument would be the best choice for a beginner to learn.
Why should your child learn how to play an instrument?
Studies have consistently shown the importance of musical education in children’s development and the range of benefits which learning music provides. Children with music education score better and have reduced stress and anxiety than children without. Learning an instrument enhances cognitive abilities, improves fine motor skills, and boosts creativity and self-expression for children. It can also be a fun and fulfilling hobby that can bring joy and satisfaction throughout their lives.
What is the best age for my child to learn music?
Now is the best time for your child to begin learning music! Learning to play music is fun and benefits people of all ages. However, we recommend children wait until around ages 4-6 to begin instrument lessons. Any child under 4 can learn music through musical activities that would teach them rhythm, motor control, and turn-taking.
What instruments are best for my child to learn to play?
1. SEYDEL Triola
Recommended age for learning: 2 years old
The Seydel Triola is a beginner's instrument designed to introduce young children to playing the harmonica. It produces a bright and clear sound that is suitable for a range of musical styles, including blues, folk, and country. It is also an ideal instrument for group playing and ensemble work, as it is lightweight, durable and easy to transport and maintain. The recorder style mouthpiece is easy to blow and even the youngest children can produce a sound immediately.
Overall, the Seydel Triola is an excellent choice for parents and educators looking to introduce children to the world of music. It is affordable, easy to play, and fun, making it an ideal instrument for young beginners to start exploring the world of music making.
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2. NUVO Recorder & Recorder+
Recommended age for learning: 4 years old
The Nuvo Recorder is a standard soprano recorder that features the simple fingering system of a traditional recorder, while the Nuvo Recorder+ features the addition of silicone keys to cover the holes, making them easier to reach for little hands and those with dexterity and mobility issues.
The Nuvo line of Recorders is perfect for young children due to their durability and how easy they are to clean and maintain. All Nuvo instruments are top-rack dishwasher safe. Both the Nuvo Recorder and Recorder+ are made of high-quality, non-toxic materials that are lightweight and portable, making them ideal instruments for young beginners who want to take their music with them wherever they go.
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3. NUVO DooD
Recommended age for learning: 4-5 years old
The Nuvo DooD is a natural next step from the Nuvo Recorder and Recorder+ to introduce a single reed instrument for ages as early as 4 years old. It has a mellow clarinet-like sound and comes in the key of C, making it a great addition to a recorder ensemble. Similar to the NUVO Recorders, the DooD is also washable and durable making it perfect for young children in the classroom.
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4. NUVO TooT
Recommended age for learning: 6 years old
The Nuvo Toot uses the traditional recorder fingering. The instrument comes with two lip plates, one recorder style to transition to holding the flute horizontally like a flute, and a second transverse flute lip plate that can be used as the student progresses, making the transition to flute a breeze!. The Nuvo Toot produces a bright and clear tone that is suitable for a range of musical styles, including classical, folk, and jazz. It is also an ideal instrument for group playing and ensemble work, as it is lightweight and easy to transport.
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5. NUVO jHorn
Recommended age for learning: 6 years old
The NUVO jHorn is a revolutionary brass training instrument that provides the opportunity to play a “brass” instrument for children as young as 4 years old. It features a simplified fingering system that is similar to that of a traditional French horn and has a small bell and a curved shape, which makes it easier for young children to hold and play. The JHorn comes with 3 different sized lip plates and two sets of valves, one in Bb and one in C, so the jHorn can be played easily with other C instruments, or in Bb with standard brass instruments.
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6. Harpsicle™ Harp
Recommended age for learning: 6 years old
Harpsicles are a great beginner instrument as they are easy to play, providing instant gratification for young children. It allows them to develop both left and right hand dexterity at the same time, a skill which is easily transferable to more advanced instruments like guitar or piano.
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7. Ukulele
Recommended age for learning: 7 years old
Ukuleles are a popular instrument for children to learn because they are small and lightweight, making them easy for children to hold and play. They also have only four strings, which is a simpler number of strings to learn compared to a guitar, for example. Ukuleles are relatively affordable, which makes them accessible for families who want to introduce their children to music without a large investment. Additionally, ukuleles are versatile instruments that can be used to play a range of musical styles, from pop and rock to traditional Hawaiian music. Learning to play the ukulele can also provide children with a sense of accomplishment and confidence as they develop their skills and perform for others. Overall, the ukulele is an excellent instrument for children to learn, providing them with a fun and rewarding musical experience.
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8. Violin
Recommended age for learning: 8 years old
Violin is a popular instrument for children to learn to play for several reasons. The size of a violin can be adjusted to fit the child's body, making it a suitable instrument for children of different ages and sizes. Many violin makers produce smaller-sized violins specifically for young players, so children can start learning to play at a young age.
Playing the violin can also be a rewarding and fulfilling experience for children. They can participate in group performances, such as orchestras and string ensembles, which can help them develop social skills and build confidence.
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In conclusion, learning to play an instrument can provide children with a range of benefits, from enhancing cognitive development to improving social skills and fostering creativity. There are many instruments available that are suitable for children under the age of 10, including the recorder, ukulele, piano/keyboard, drums, violin, guitar, and harmonica. Parents should consider their child's interests and abilities when choosing an instrument, and encourage them to practice regularly to develop their skills and enjoy the many rewards of making music.