Getting Into String Instruments 101
We encourage learning how to play instruments here at Drunk On Pop, but how to know which instrument to choose? Today we’re going to teach you about some of your string instrument options!
When people decide to pick up an instrument, they have multiple groups of instruments to pick from. The main four families include string instruments, woodwind instruments, brass instruments, and percussion instruments. Nine times out of ten, people will tend to opt for string instruments. Why? Well, they’re easily accessible, tend to come at a lower cost when you’re first starting out, and the majority of our favourite musicians tend to play them. So, to get you started on the right foot, here are a couple of things to consider when getting into string instruments!
Start Out with a Ukulele
A decade or so ago, you may not have ever seen a ukulele, or heard of one for that matter. However, in recent years, this little instrument has gained significant popularity and can be found in the majority of small music stores. You can even find the odd novelty ukulele being released by a brand that doesn’t usually deal with musical instruments at all. Now, there are various reasons for this, all of which make the ukulele a brilliant instrument to invest in. First of all, the ukulele is a relatively simple instrument to learn. With only four strings, it is a whole lot less complex than other instruments belonging to the string family. However, there are still plenty of songs that can be played with it. Next, it’s a small instrument and isn’t going to take up a whole lot of room in your personal living space. A standard ukulele measures just 20 inches, however if you want something smaller, there’s a smaller option called the sopranissimo, which measures an even smaller 16 inches. If you find that the standard ukulele is a little too small for you to operate, there are larger options ranging from 20 inches (the soprano ukulele) up to 23 inches (the concert ukulele), 26 inches (the tenor ukulele) and 29 inches (the baritone ukulele). Another popularising factor is its costs. The ukulele doesn’t tend to cost all too much to buy outright and there are a whole load of free resources for the instrument out there. You can find music at easyukulelesongs.com and there are plenty of free video tutorials to watch on Youtube.
Consider an Acoustic Guitar
While the ukulele is a brilliant instrument in its own right, the acoustic guitar is generally considered the next step up. It has six strings and can be used to play a whole host of popular music. Take a look at any given band – chances are there’s a guitarist in there somewhere, right? Now, when you pick up the guitar, you’re going to have to invest in a couple of things. First, you need a guitar itself. Browse beginner guitars and don’t try to spend too much. You may find that it’s not for you and you’ll have wasted a lot of money if you opt for something top of the range. However, if you do take to it, you can always sell your beginner guitar and upgrader down the line. Next, you will need some plectrums. These generally save your fingers from the wear and tear that comes with plucking and strumming strings. When you have these, you’re pretty much set to go! Book some guitar lessons or follow online tutorials!
While there are plenty more string instruments on the market, these prove to be two of the most popular. So, look into them, try them out, and see whether they’re for you!
