Since the pandemic, people have been looking for ways to keep them entertained, despite being locked inside the home. Thanks to this, new hobbies have been discovered, from playing board games to developing a love for writing. But, probably the most exciting hobby that has emerged is playing musical instruments.
In fact, many people have used their time in lockdown learning how to play a musical instrument or two. Some have also seen this opportunity to improve their skills in playing now that they have enough time to practice. No matter the reason, music surely helped many people keep their sanity in check during the pandemic.
Most people love music, and they have different ways to enjoy it. Some prefer listening to it, while others like to personally play the instruments. If you’re one of those who’d like to play but are not sure which instrument to choose, well, this article is for you. Below are some of the common musical instruments you can easily learn at your own pace, in your own home.
Classic Guitar
Playing the guitar is a great choice, especially for those who have a hobby of writing their own songs or just playing their favorite ones. The guitar is a type of stringed instrument wherein the most classic one contains six strings. There are actually a lot of guitar types, such as acoustic or electric, and the range of options you have might get overwhelming for you.
The good thing is there are a lot of trusted shops that already have complete sets of these stringed instruments and even have professional employees who know their music really well. Just a pro-tip, it’s always a good idea to buy one in your most trusted local store. You can check out Musos Corner, for instance, if you’re somewhere in Australia.
Keyboard
A keyboard is like a piano but smaller. Unlike a piano that has weighted keys and is bigger, a keyboard has lighter keys, which makes them easier to learn for beginners. Plus, they can be moved from one place to another since they are much lighter to carry than a piano. If you like to spend a lot of time typing on the computer, you might find learning how to play the keyboard very familiar.
This is because when you play the instrument, it’s similar to how you would type on your computer’s keyboard. You also press keys. It allows you to practice the flexibility of your fingers, but instead of hearing clicks, you will produce more melodic, not to mention relaxing music instead. That is, once you get the hang of it.
Violin
This is another type of string instrument, but this time, it is smaller, and a bow comes with it. If you’re a fan of orchestra and classical music, then learning how to play the violin is a good choice for you. You can already produce good sound in the early phases of your learning. However, it takes time, a lot of practice, hard work, and patience to move past the basics and fully master the instrument.
Probably the most significant challenge would be bowing correctly. Executing the bow strokes precisely is very important because that’s how music is produced. In addition, you must simultaneously control the angle and pressure that you apply so you won’t get the wrong tune. While it may seem challenging, its romantic melody is definitely worth your time and effort.
Recorder
If you want something simple and small, a recorder can be one option for you. A recorder is a part of the woodwind family that produces music by blowing and pressing the holes. This is particularly popular among school-age learners, and what’s more, they are very affordable. On top of that, they are easy to learn.
That is why most schools teach them in their early years as it can be an excellent musical start for children. Once you have mastered the recorder, it’s easier for you to move to bigger woodwind instruments like the clarinet, saxophone, or flute. Since they have very similar finger placements, you might even be a woodwind master in no time!
Drums
What’s rock and roll without a few strikes to the drum? This is probably the most famous percussion instrument and is among the favorite ones to be played. It’s no surprise that many men prefer to play them, but at this time and age, you can see many women holding the drumsticks and playing the drums. While they are huge and loud, it is one of the most fun instruments to play.
Aside from the fun, playing the drums can be beneficial for your hand and feet coordination. They can also help release many happy hormones to help relieve stress and reduce anxiety and tension. Also, since it involves your whole body, drumming can be a form of exercise. So, you don’t just produce music, but it gives you a bunch of health benefits, too.
Takeaway
Learning to play an instrument or two can be a good way to manage your mental health, especially during this time. While it may be hard to choose what instrument could be a good one to start learning, you can always begin by knowing your music style and what type of jam you want. Then, you’re good to go.
