faq4

South of the River
Music Provides
Private In-Home
Music Lessons!
Piano Lessons
Guitar Lessons
Voice Lessons
Drum Lessons
Brass Lessons
Woodwind Lessons
String Lessons
Harmonica Lessons
Accordion Lessons

What Instrument Should I Choose?

Frequently Asked
Questions

There are so many wonderful instruments to choose from, it is easy to find a few
instruments that are perfect for each student!!

Here are a few things to consider when choosing an instrument:

Age: See At what age can my child start lessons?

Size: Many instruments (such as the guitar) have student models that can fit a    younger
student. Larger instruments, such as the tuba, will require more    physical strength and
may be better suited for older students. See At what age an my child start lessons? For
more details.

You may also want to consider the space available in your home. For example, does your
home have room for a piano?

Personality: A shy child may prefer an instrument that stands alone such as the piano or
an instrument that often plays a supporting role in ensembles, bands, or orchestras, such as
the flute or clarinet.

A child that is more outgoing may prefer an instrument that carries the melody in
ensembles, bands, or    orchestras,or often has the opportunity to solo, such as a trumpet,
drums, or guitar. Jazz bands or ensembles are a wonderful outlet for children who love the
limelight! They often feature each instrument by having them perform a solo section.
Instrument preference: Many children may not strongly prefer one instrument over the
other, but if your child has their heart set on a particular one, it may be better to start
lessons on that instrument. They may be more motivated to practice and be more
dedicated if they are already in love with that instrument!

If your child does not have a particular instrument in mind, piano is a    wonderful
instrument for students to begin on. Instruction on the piano or keyboard provides a great
musical foundation. Children learn basic music theory concepts such as the music
alphabet, note values, what a staff is, and the location of the keys on the keyboard.
Children who have had at least six months to one year of piano lessons (and thus already
know the basic elements of music) find it easier to make the transition between instruments
They are also able to learn a new instrument a lot faster.

You can have your child attend local musical events so they can see and hear different
instruments. You can also attend a South of the River Music recital to see our current
students in action!

Instrument Cost: Different instruments come with different price tags. For example a
piano may cost more than a clarinet or a guitar. Many music stores will offer rental
programs that can make any instrument fit in a budget!

Piano is one of the most popular instrument choices. It is a wonderful instrument for
students to begin on!

Provides a great musical foundation!
Children learn basic music theory concepts such as the music alphabet, note values, what
a staff is, and the location of the keys on the keyboard.
It sounds good right away!
Notes on a keyboard or piano are always in tune and play with a good tone.
Easier to transition to other instruments!
Children who have had at least six months to one year of piano lessons (and thus already
know the basic elements of music) find it easier to make the transition between
instruments. They are also able to learn a new instrument a lot faster.