Playing a musical instrument has many benefits, like relieving stress and improving memory. However, many people think that learning to play is out of reach. Whilst it does take time and patience, it doesn’t have to cost a fortune – there are many routes to take that avoid expensive tutors. One way is by joining the Army Cadet Force, where you can gain a BTEC in Music, but more on this later.
Firstly, you’ll need to choose what to play, and there are easier instruments to learn than others. Before you attempt something more challenging, like the violin, it helps to get to grips with one that is a little more straightforward first. Below, we’ve put together a list of five of the easiest musical instruments to learn by yourself.
WHAT ARE THE EASIEST INSTRUMENTS TO LEARN?
ELECTRIC GUITAR
Many musical newbies are drawn to learning the guitar, and it's easy to see why. What’s often misunderstood is the difference between electric guitars, bass guitars, and acoustic guitars. An electric guitar, like its acoustic counterpart, typically has six strings. These guitars are popular in various music genres, from rock to jazz, and offer a versatile range of sounds.
On the other hand, a bass guitar, which is sometimes confused with an electric guitar, usually has four strings. The bass guitar plays a different role in music, focusing more on providing the rhythmic and harmonic foundation in a band setting. Its fewer strings and different tuning can make it a unique starting point for beginners.
While learning the electric or bass guitar takes just as much practice and dedication as an acoustic guitar, there are numerous free online resources available to help beginners. From video lessons to interactive apps, these tools can significantly aid in learning chords, melodies, and bass lines, regardless of the type of guitar you choose to start with
UKELELE
When many of us think of a ukulele, we think of camping holidays sitting around a fire and roasting marshmallows, with someone playing their ukulele in the background. Whilst this is not wrong – ukuleles and campfires seem to go hand-in-hand – ukuleles deserve much more recognition. Like the bass guitar, ukuleles have just four strings and because of their small size, they make a great first instrument for younger budding musicians.
Many people go on to learn the acoustic guitar after they’ve gotten used to the ukulele.
RECORDER
For some of us, the recorder might take us back to primary school days, playing in school productions and nativities with our classmates. There’s a reason that the recorder is taught a lot in primary school, and that’s because they’re one of the easiest musical instruments to learn.
They aren’t expensive to buy either, and once you’ve mastered the standard size you can upgrade to a tenor or soprano. Recorders are easy to grasp and don’t require lots of coordination, making them a great place to start for someone new to music.
HARMONICA
The harmonica, a versatile instrument used in country, folk, rock, and blues, offers a unique and soulful sound which is easily identifiable. Its small size makes it incredibly portable and practical. Harmonicas stand out for their ease of play; beginners often find it fun and relatively simple to learn, as it's hard to produce a discordant sound.
This simplicity, combined with its affordability, makes the harmonica an excellent choice for those starting their musical journey. Whether leading a blues melody or adding depth to a band ensemble, the harmonica is a powerful tool for musical expression, suitable for both novices and experienced musicians. Plus, how many musical instruments can you carry around in your pocket?
KEYBOARDS
Keyboards are a practical and versatile alternative to traditional pianos, ideal for beginners and seasoned players alike. They offer a range of sounds beyond the classic piano tone, suitable for various musical styles.
Their portability and lighter keys make them an attractive choice for beginners, and transitioning from a keyboard to a piano is a common path, as it allows players to gradually build finger strength and technique.
A key feature of many keyboards is the ability to record and playback, aiding in self-assessment and progress tracking which makes them a valuable tool for musical exploration and skill development.
HOW TO LEARN A NEW INSTRUMENT
Now you’ve found an instrument you want to play; it’s time to learn it. Thankfully, due to the internet, there are many options for people on different budgets.
Online tutorials are extremely popular and can be found on free streaming services like YouTube. The advantage of following a video is that you can pause at any time if you’re struggling, or repeat it as much as you’d like. There are also many helpful apps and resources, such as SimplyPiano and UltimateGuitar.
More effective means (that will require more expense) are having lessons, either in a class or with a tutor. Numerous tutors have moved online due to the pandemic, so, in many cases, you may not even have to leave the house to be taught by a professional.
One way you can gain a music qualification is by joining the ACF as a cadet. Aside from gaining an extra qualification, learning to play an instrument increases confidence and shows commitment, two skills that are sought after by employees. Before the pandemic, the opportunity to travel around the country (and abroad!) to play music presented itself regularly and is something we look forward to continuing when we’re allowed.
Find out more about music in the ACF and take a look at our cadets in action on their Facebook page.
