A music instrument suits a specific personality – don’t choose the wrong music instrument for your child
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William Shakespeare said via his character Lorenzo in The Merchant of Venice:
"The man that hath no music in himself, nor is not mov'd with concord of sweet sounds, is fit for treasons, stratagems, and spoils."
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In 1991 I became the administrator of a music school, responsible for all tasks except music tuition and the conducting of orchestras and ensembles. I did, however, sporadically take care of students in the absence of their teachers – for I know enough of music to be a ‘paramedic-teacher’ in case of emergencies - and I even handled a class of beginner-recorder players for six months – a group of twenty learners who failed to show progress and therefore haltered the rest of the class to move on to the next level.
Students are admitted to our music school after they have passed the Bentley or a similar test, which confirms the talent they need to master a music instrument. Thereafter we assist them in choosing a music instrument that suits their unique personalities. We use the Atarah Ben-Tovim and Douglas Boyd practical guide, which is based on thorough research.
 | This is a unique book - now in it's 4th, updated edition - which offers a simple and practical method of selecting the right instrument for the individual child. Starting with the physical and emotional make-up of the child and using questionnaires and charts, the authors systematically explain the pros and cons of various instruments. For instance, a child who loves company might not enjoy playing the piano as it is predominantly a solo instrument. It appeals more to quiet introverts and yet many a child has been forced to learn only to give up as soon as they are allowed. As well as examining each individual instrument, the authors give advice on how some of the pitfalls can be avoided and provide information on buying and practising. Based on years of research by the authors, whose experience is unsurpassed, this is a comprehensive and inspirational book that will help unlock every child's potential.
Amazon Price: $2.13 List Price: $19.95 |
Did you know?
With the following questions on the back page of their most famous book of 144 pages Atarah Ben-Tovim and Douglas Boyd fascinates parents and music teachers -
Did you know?
- Nine children out of ten could succeed in learning a music instrument;
- Most of the children who give up learning instruments are just as musical as those who carry on; they fail because their instruments were wrongly selected;
- Most children who start with piano before the age of eight will fail, and believe that they are ‘no good at music’;
- Children who succeed on an instrument also do beter in school.
Ben-Tovim and Boyd cover all matters regarding music tuition in their book, as well as all Western music instruments. Inter alia they stress the physical, mental and personality qualities required for mastering a specific instrument.
I would like to emphasize briefly the emotional qualities required for each instrument. But I must add that we have learnt that children are able to master any instrument they WANT to master. ‘Where there is a will, there is a way’. Most children, however, want to play music but they don’t know all the instruments orchestras are composed of. They can only rely on a parent or a teacher to assist them in choosing the right instrument.
The Flute
Appeals to shy or lonely children who enjoy their own privacy. They may seem dreamy and forgetful, but could be quietly sociable and will enjoy making music with other children in orchestras and bands of all kinds. The aggressive and dominant child will not find satisfaction on the flute.
The Clarinet
Appeals to bright, alert and sociable children with several different hobbies or interests. They look forward to play with others in orchestras of all sorts.
The Saxophone
Very suitable for children who are labeled as ‘casual’ or ‘absent-minded’. Happy, well-balanced gregarious children, not in need of a close relationship with a teacher, find the saxophone an ideal way of getting into the world of making music with friends. The saxophone is designed for the delicious freedom of improvisation.
The Oboe
Ideal for determined, tight-lipped, stubborn introverts who prefer only one to two close friends. Oboe-players in an orchestra tend to make a little clan and keep to themselves.
The Bassoon
For responsive and pleasantly-gregarious children, with a quiet sense of humor. They tend to be the practical jokers in the woodwind section of the orchestra.
Cornet & Trumpet
Appeal to sociable children with lots of ‘nervous energy’ and can accommodate the aggressive, dominant and ambitious child, as well as the easygoing. An excellent instrument for the individualistic child who wants to feel independent of the family.
Tenor horn and Baritone
Very satisfying for gentle, peaceful children who do not want to dominate others. They are easygoing, responsible children who like being ‘in the middle of things’. They are often asked to be organizers of rehearsals, or the secretary of the orchestra, or the librarian of the orchestra’s music.
French Horn
For children who prefer to relate to small groups. They do not easily mix with others. This instrument appeals to conscientious, intense, hardworking and persistent children. It is a very difficult instrument to master, but a challenge to the child who need to prove her/himself as unique and special.
(My daughter-in-law was a professional euphonium player (and pianist) in one of the orchestras of our Defence Force, but obliged to play the French Horn frustrated her and she finally resigned).
Trombone
Most fulfilling for artistic, quietly sociable and sensitive children who need to feel that they are making the sound. Particularly satisfying for children who wants to express their personalities playing in jazz bands.
Kim added the following description: "Trombone players tend to be a lot like Saxophone players at times. But with a different element."
Euphonium
For responsive children who are readily reacting or replying to people or events or stimuli.
(Euphonium means 'beautiful sound', and this instrument has indeed the most beautiful and soul-soothing sound.)
Tuba
Ideal for the responsive, good-natured boy who are happy belonging to a group and who tend to ‘lead behind the curtains’.
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(Allow me some boasting here: My son is a professional tuba-player and regarded as one of the top five tuba-players in our country).
String instruments
Violin - For the quietly behaved children, neither solitary nor gregarious. They must be able to accept that their principle function as players is to contribute to a corporate sound – the individual string-player is rarely heard alone.
Viola - Appeals to responsive, kindly children who want to contribute to a group endeavour.
Cello - This instrument asks for big hands and long arms and often attracts shy children who need the respect of others but don’t like the limelight.
Double Bass - Offers no outlet for the child who wants to dominate, but highly suitable for one with an interest in jazz music. Playing the double bass in jazz combo is fulfilling and creatively satisfying.
Percussion: Drums, cymbals, maracas, wood-block, drumkit, xylophone, timpani...
For the tense, nervous, often irritable, hyperactive, restless child the percussion section of an orchestra offers satisfaction and fulfillment.
A drumkit player's dream is to play in a rock band.
Piano
Most suitable for the quietly, intelligent and conscientious child (from the age of eight). Gregarious children are miserable on this instrument, for it takes many years of study before it can be played with others. It is though an ideal instrument to begin with, as it provides basic theoretical background for all other music instruments.
Classical Guitar
Deeply comforting and pleasurable to the acquisitive or possessive child – perhaps a collector or a hoarder of pocket money. Chess-players feel good reading and playing guitar music. Also suitable for the self-contained and independent child who does not want open or equal-sided relationships. The child who succeeded in the guitar enjoys being alone. The classical guitar player will easily master the electrical-, bass-, and folk guitar.
Buy it today!
| More instruments are covered in “The Right Instrument for your Child’ by Atarah Ben-Tovim and Douglas Boyd. Amazon Price: $2.13 List Price: $19.95 |
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Micky Dee –Thanks to Ben-Tovim and Boyd we seldom introduce a child to an instrument not suitable for her/his personality. My son never touched my piano, organ or keybord. Then, at the age of 13, he scored high marks in the Bentley test (which had to be done by all new Grade 8’s in his school). The tuba was introduced to him and he simply fell in love with the instrument. I never had to remind him to practise music. Today, at the age of 36, he can’t imagine a life without his tuba (or his bass guitar).
Thanks for the read and your encouraging comment, Micky. I think you would have been a great saxophone player. Please enjoy for a few minutes some saxophone music with me. Bill Clinton on the tenor saxophone. If you don’t like him, just concentrate on the music :) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Alv7N6Ynm1Y
Now I know, thanks to you, Martie, why I did not enjoy taking lessons to play the piano when I was six years old. Also why I hated taking the time to practice. Too gregarious was I. :)
Thank you for this fascinating read.
drbj – At the age of six much concentration is needed for little fingers to coordinate, especially for the impatient child who prefer playing with friends or pets. The gregarious child should rather start at six with the recorder, preferably in a small group, and he may even participate in an Orff-ensemble, which includes percussion instruments. But let me stick out my head and introduce you to Mario’s bassoon-quartet. Perhaps you would’ve enjoyed studying this woodwind instrument. The trombone (brass instrument) is also very suitable for the gregarious child with a sense of humor. Please enjoy with me – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2gXh83hNnWw
Martie-
This is an excellent hub! I had no choice but to play the flute, because a friend of my mother's let me borrow it. And when I saw the instrument, I loved it immediately! I was definitely shy around people. I also remember how exciting it was to play with the band- when a song finally came together. I think your book just might be spot-on!
Deni Edwards – You were lucky! Too often children come to us with a borrowed instrument that doesn’t suit them at all. Fortunately we have a lot of instruments to lend to our students until they are ready to buy their own. Deni, I also play the flute – though by this time I’ve lost my embouchure completely – just don’t get the time to play. Please enjoy with me Carmen Fantasy for flute and Piano - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a2s1682XtwQ&feature
Martie-Thanks for the link. That was absolutely beautiful.
Deni Edwards - I agree - Most beautiful fantasy! I'll never get tired of it. Take good care of yourself!
Hello Martie, When Zac was 6 he started guitar lessons but wouldn't practice he then moved on to piano lessons but again wouldn't practice ! My daughter took him away from lessons then one day he asked me if I would take him to a new music school. We went to check it and he was given a test. I was told he was exeptionally talented re.music. All this was to be strictly secret from his mum and my husband.. He has been going for 12 months and is also playing Tenor horn (in a church club)in a small band.I am so excited at the prospect of christmas day when we all go to my daughters and -Wow ! Zac is going to get on the piano and do some jazz stuff which they know nothing of! re. his lessons for the last year..,
enjoyed your music info. and envy you your piano talent -I love piano,best from jandee.
jandee – Oh Zac is certainly going to surprise them all out of their socks. I love surprises like this. One has to be careful with children under 8 – for them music tuition should be more play than work. Of course there are those little Mozart’s on piano and violin, but we don’t regard them as rol-models. Jandee, I’ve found for us Franz Liszt’s Hungarian Rhapsody. It is not jazz, and it is played on an electric piano – not my personal choice of piano – but this is an amazing piece, totally beyond my level of expertise, but just to think I could have played like that if I had the opportunity, gives me a thrill. Please enjoy it with me. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FWmTg3bHwuw
BTW – Jazz music is not at all easy to play by a beginner on any instrument.
Martie my vriend - dit is baie interesant wat jy hier geskryf het, en ek waardeer dit. As one who is passionate about music this info will be very useful to me as I encourage others to take up music.
I think every child should have a go at some form of music. Very important for the development of all sorts of skills.
Thanks for this great piece and I look forward to hearing your son!
Love and peace
Tony
Oh my gosh! The psychology behind musical instruments as they relate to childhood and grade school experience is so intensely accurate. At least from my experience, all of these coincidences in personality type and success rate, effect of self esteem, etc all bring back a vividly memorable experience.
When I was much younger, and excelling more so than ever before in school was when I played the violion. Yes, I was a very quiet, appropriately behaved kid and enjoyed being out of the spotlight, though I do remember when I was nominated for "solo-ensemble" for the Strings Section. I had to go play in front of three judges alone at nine years old and I was terrified. Nothing felt better than getting those reviews back and having an "A-" as an overall score.
While I still don't care much for the minus symbol in grading, because I think it brings a negative connotation to any grade, it was an experience I will remember fondly for the entirety of my life.
I enjoyed reading this Hub so much. I love your writing so much, it has a whole new brand of engaging that I've not felt in quite a while. Thank You. All The Best.
Hello martie,
you have driven me from hubpages into the wonderful world of Franz lizst-how clever of you !! Music!! where do you start. My first love was Johnnie Ray, who I actually became quite pally with, then I discovered Cleo
That was lovely listening Marti, thanks for that, So much super variety in Music ,
jandee
What a good way, to take account of the childrens personality! I was forced to start with the recorder at the age of seven, which was really boring, and at the age of eight it was the piano. I haven´t touched an instrument in adulthood, so something was wrong with me playing these instruments! This is a very interesting hub! I am so happy that you shared this information!
tonymac04 – Ek het nogal gedink jy sal hierdie een waardeer. The book also stresses the mental and physical requirements. For example a child may have the personality for a trumpet, but his teeth, or lips can not accommodate the mouthpiece. We also believe(d) [like Mr. Orff] that all children should at least study one instrument, because the study of music is the only [although I don’t like the word ‘only’] activity that develops the left and right hemispheres of the brain simultaneously. We did some research – for 3 years we taught orchestral instruments to all Gr 8’s and Gr 9’s who passed the Bently-aptitude test – the rest were put on recorders. We’ve learnt that children who don’t have the talent cannot even master three notes on a recorder – forcing them to keep on trying is giving them all the opportunity in the world to develop inferior complexes and negative attitudes. But interesting – they were by far the minority and also showed no talent in any other subject – daai probleemkinders, jy weet! I had to handle them for six months and since then I am so glad I am not a fulltime teacher of any sort.
Tony, I know you like jazz. Personally I prefer jazz only during specific occasions, but this is actually how I feel about all music. Please enjoy with me the Roy Hargrove Big Band – they were nominated for 2010 Grammy Awards en ek weet nie eers of dit toelaatbaar is nie, maar die hub vra nogal vir die musiek, nie waar nie? - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=98onMuGnQBA
Sasha'sOnHubShell – I appreciate your positive feedback tremendously, and I am so glad I refreshed a lot of your good memories. I just love violin players – in our school. They are so sweet and obedient, and pretty. Most of them have fine, delicate bone structures – cute little faces lake angels. Sasha, please enjoy with me the one and only Vanessa Mae on violin - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hg8Fa_EUQqY
jandee – I’m so glad you’ve enjoyed Franz Lizst. I think music is the most beautiful language in the whole world. No need for translation, and so wonderful to enjoy with others. Peace and harmony for you!
thougtforce – Many children with lots of musical talent are not interested in developing their talent. Talent is not the only requirement, there is something more needed to become a musician - a desire - and I think that desire also lies in our genes. My daughter has above-average musical talent, but after four years on the piano she lost interest – I did not know then about the opportunities on other instruments – and I can kick myself, because it was right here in our hometown. But I was too busy making ends meet to bother with a child who does not want to do something I wanted her to do. So she went for gymnastics. Water under the bridge! Thougtforce, I’ve found for us an amazing piece of music - Telemann, Suite for treble recorder and orchestra (1 of 3) Please enjoy this with me. Be patient, the strings are pertinent in the beginning, but then comes the recorder solo’s – b-e-a-u-t-i-f-u-l. I’m in awe of this simple instrument’s performance with strings. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q06ZXm5SuUM
Martie,this is so interesting.I've always wanted to play the piano and the guitar,in fact i would buy a guitar if i could find one at the Goodwill store,maybe i could learn.My son played the drums,man the noise was pretty bad.Take Care
Cheers
always exploring – I have so much empathy with the parents of drummers. For some reason I am not able to appreciate practices and even performances on a drumkit. I like listening to marching bands – side-drums, and I do appreciate the drums in rock music, but just drums – a person practicing rolls, or vigorous solos, provokes anger in me. And this is inter alia what drums are suppose to do – primitive people warned each other against dangers with drums, they broadcasted bad news with drums, enticed soldiers to war... But yes, drums are essential instruments in most orchestras and bands. But let you and I rather enjoy a guitar duet, my dearest twin (in space) - Romance Flamenco(Classical guitar) by Jesse L http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4mlYjBN1bm8
I love music and feel it's a vital part of a healthy happy life. My Youngest plays the Saxophone, both tenor and alto, the guitar, the violin and piano. My oldest is a percussionist playing all of the following: Percussion, Drums, cymbals, maracas, wood-block, drumkit, xylophone, timpani. Needless to say we have a lot of instruments around our house.
I wish every child had an instrument to enjoy.
katiem2 – I believe in a house filled with life-music. There are few things as satisfying as making music, alone and with others. Katie, I am sure you will appreciate a typical South-African folk song. This kind of music is called Boere (farmers) Music. It was originally European – in the 16-17th centuries - but in SA it gradually changed into a genre of its own. It is informal, not-at-all-complicated dance music – a couple dances this in the Ballroom dancing style. Very-very enjoyable – the music just urge you to grab a dancing partner or a music instrument. It was (and still is in certain societies) the custom to dance the old year out and the New Year in on this music. Popular instruments for these Boere-orchestras are concertinas, piano accordions, pianos, guitars, banjo’s, drums, violins, and bass guitar or contra bass. One does not need all these instruments to get a party going – three two four, but definitely a concertina or a piano accordion, is enough to get the dancers on the floor. Please enjoy with me Suikerbossie (Sugar bush) - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RZhTRKa4XPA
My mother was a saint, and for a major portion of my life I believed she could do no wrong, but eventually I had to come to grips with a major mistake she made when I was child. She found me a tutor and bought me a clarinet. I squeaked and squawked and struggled with that damn thing for a couple of years before gratefully giving it up.
All my ancestors are Welsh, I was born to sing. I was always required to sing a duet or solo at any school assembly. Why would anyone stick a musical instument in my mouth? I needed an instrument I could play and sing along with. And I never liked the sound of the clarinet!
If I wanted to learn a wind instrument now it would be a harmonica...versitile, portable and easy to play and instersperse with vocals.
This was a very interesting hub and I am sure the book is very helpful. Thanks.
CP
Christopher Price – The guitar would have been a perfect instrument for you, don’t you think. Yes, the clarinet – with its tendency to squawk – is initially a big challenge, and you’ve got to love the sound to be able to master any instrument. I take my hat off for oboe players – the oboe sounds like a dying cat while you are still trying to get on top of it. The voice is also a music instrument. If you had the opportunity to develop it, you could have been a famous singer today? Please enjoy with me two of my favorite voices – Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QbN0g8-zbdY
PS. I love your thoughts about your mother :))
..I must say this hub is a hall of famer and the true reason for my return visit but this time in person - lol - at your hallowed hub space made special by someone as wonderful as you whom I would imagine has really made this hub subject her labor of love because it's so full of passion and knowledge and insight - and an incentive for future generations to sit up, take note, listen and explore the beautiful possiblities of music .......
I recall my parents wanted me to do the violin (oops, that one sounded naughty) I mean play the violin. I hated it. The kid really needs the urge to play anything I guess. i learned a lot from this hub. Great write and even better read.
epigramman – my dearest friend – I always love your presence in the comment sections of my hubs. I have to quote Berthold Auerbach right here: “Music washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.” And there are even people, like Friedrich Wilhelm Nietzsche, who believe: “Without music life would be a mistake.”
I wanted to share some music with you, but something is now wrong with my u-tube downloader – These kind of technical problems drive me nuts – for I just never know how to fix it. Thanks again, my friend, for the visit in person.
BobbiRant – Ha-ha! Well, observing musicians, you will notice that most of them are actually doing their instruments and not merely playing it. Now I would have liked to share some music with you, but technical problems are spoiling all my fun! Best wishes from me to you.
when I was in school I play the Sax (Alto) in the band, it was the only thing I liked about school. I always loved the sound of the Sax. Great hub my dear.
Yo Martie! Bill Clinton can play the Sax. Thank you Dear! Your son is 36? That makes you still too young for me! You're still a beautiful child my Dear!
vietnamvet68 – I know many who regard their music tuition and activities as the only thing they liked while they were in school. Music is a comfortable ‘world’, somewhere above or beyond reality. Now – keeping that grumpy gnome living in the depths of your joints in mind – let’s listen to a soothing song, Havana performed on the alto sax by the one and only Kenny G. - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UBImCgtxRXw
Micky Dee – I’m so glad you came back. Now you’ve got to enjoy one of the most amazing solos for trumpet with me. Thanks for the compliment – I love being too young :) I mean, how does a woman cope, knowing she is ‘too old’? Please, Micky, enjoy with me...
Pa-pa-ra-pa –
Trumpet Voluntary http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8lTTWraugCI
Thanks Martie your right I do love it and my girls love it as well. What a beat... Awesome thanks again! Love and Peace :)
Katie - That kind of (dancing) music is almost completely part of our past, because until about 20-30 years ago the Afrikaans-speaking people (in particular) in our country loved to dance ... still at the age of 70... on the beat of that music. Nowadays most people outgrow the urge to dance before they turn 30 – and the sound of the concertina and piano accordion don’t impress them anymore.
I’ve also noticed that singing (in churches as well) is becoming less of an enjoyment as it was 20-30 years ago. This is quite an interesting phenomenon: every generation of a specific nation is more mature than the previous generation.
Peace and hugs from me to you.
Wow..... beautiful. I really love this hub. You made this hub so beautiful. I learn much from you. I agree with you, we have to give the right music for our child. I love all the music instruments. I hope the best for our kids. I heard many times that the right music give big influence to the child's brain development and their personality of course. I give my special vote for you. God bless you!
Love and peace,
prasetio30 – I am so glad you loved this one. I am an advocate for music tuition. I believe that music – developing one’s ability to master at least one instrument – improves the quality of a person’s mind, heart and soul. I have no idea what instrument you play, or would have liked to play, but I guess you will enjoy Mozart Oboe Concerto with me. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DhygJyCvYeA
Martie thank you for sharing the beautifyl video and song by Kenny G, it is so relaxing. God Bless you my dear.
vietnamvet - I'm glad you've enjoyed it, Sir! God bless you too.
Marvelous, Martie! This is such fun and so good of you to share this expertise on things musical! I'll be following up on many of the links you're sharing throughout!
Based on the personality connections with instruments, I find that I probably would enjoy many of the instruments described, actually: a little of this and that in my personality, which has many contrasts, I suppose, though my early years didn't provide many opportunities for performance or for training in any but piano. I am both right and left brained, almost equally, with a very slight 1% leaning toward the right. Both my parents loved music and encouraged it. But the only other opportunities at Del Rio schools were in the school marching band & it didn't suit me or my circumstances in any way. All students in elementary school had to buy and then had a chance to play a little trial wind instrument in music classes but it was not pursued very seriously. It was just barely ok and not very satisfying.
I always loved the piano, though I'm no virtuoso for sure. And we had no piano at the ranch where I spent lots of time as a kid. I had my little toy piano I tried to "practice" on but it was frustrating. LOL
A little bust of Liszt sits on one of my instruments, a gift from one of my music teachers.
One of my oldest online friends is a master of many instruments, from piano, guitar, violin, cello, flute - and I guess to just about any other he chooses to take up. He's also a singer, as well as a very manly man who is a Navy vet, outdoorsman, writer and photographer. Very bright mind. Always taking college courses just for the fun of it. He's mastered so many varied things.
Another of my longest-term online friends plays the trumpet. He let it slide for years but returned to it and loved it so much that made a move toward professional playing till he inherited some money & got into another big interest, motorcycling.
Something which saddens me now is that George's great grandson, who is a deep and likable kid, has a dad (now divorced from his mom, George's granddaughter) - but still an active part of Logan's life & declares that "no son of men is going to play musical instruments". There ought to be a law. . . .!
Nellieanna – I haven’t share my knowledge of music until now, because it reminds me too much of work. To relax and forget about work is after all the reason why I am on HubPages. But, and I can’t remember what or who, eventually inspired me to write this hub.
It is so sad when children don’t get the opportunity to develop their music talents. I had music (piano) as a school subject until the age of 10. Then we moved to another province where music was not a school subject. Shortage of money and my father’s idea that I know enough to go on on my own, was the reason why I did not continue with formal music study. So I played by ear for many-many years. (We had a Yamaha organ and an accordion, and eventually I add a piano and keyboard.)
I caught up with the theory and sight reading when I started working at the music school, and took up the flute and progressed to Grade 5 (Trinity). I considered going for an audition at the Defence Force Band – to be near my son. But then I realized my heart was in the music school – it was my baby!
I am a musician at heart; live music attracted me since I was a little girl. Making music - like writing - is an obsessive-compulsive thing with me. I just have to do it, and I can do it for hours and hours until pain in my fingers – or something else - stops me.
We know many fathers with the silly idea that men should not play music instruments. What rubbish! Since the beginning music was made and composed by men. It was always a field for men. Women were never – in ancient times - allowed to touch instruments. This idea of modern men is rooted in envy. The envious knows men who are able to make music are operating on a much higher mental and emotional level as they. There are many gays in the world of music (and other arts) but music did not make them gay – music merely attracted their sensitive souls and above average intellect. Anyway, our attitude towards this: some you win, some you loose. We feel sorry for those who loose because of an ignorant and stubborn father.
Nellieanna, I’ve chosen Liszt, Hungarian Rhapsody No.2 for us. I think you will enjoy it with me? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=goeOUTRy2es
I don't play any musical instrument but I thoroughly enjoyed and agree with your analyses.
As a listener, I would choose the Flute, the Violin, the piano and the Oboe as the instruments I would study..if I were to study.
I did try to learn the piano..we can't go there, Martie, lol.
My son started with violin but preferred the cello. He can also play the piano, but his heart is not in it.
He only studied music for me and I am glad I made him.
msorensson – you are always so welcome in my corner! You are playing the euphonium in the HubPages Symphony Orchestra. (Follow link on my profile page). Incidentally this is the cello in the brass section... I had you on cello for quite a few hours before I decided to move you to euph :) I wonder if I should move you back to cello? Your personality (on HP) also fits the flute, the violin as well as the oboe. Ma’am, you are in fact able to play many instruments. We have students doing four instruments plus the orchestra. I just knew you are the kind of mother who would want her child to study music. It is so essential for brain and personality development. Authorities – regarding education - should really take this truth serious. Melinda, please enjoy with me Antonio Vivaldi: Chamber concerto for flute, oboe, violin, bassoon & b.c. in C major (RV 88)
Neat hub! I love stringed instruments myself. I tried playing the flute as a kid but got bored with it. Apparently, making a sound is harder than it looks! Haha! I've recently started playing the ukulele and am loving it.
Time4Travel – oh yes, it takes some time before one can produce a pure beautiful sound on a wind instrument. Embouchure has to be developed and correct use of diaphragm has to be mastered. Enjoy the ukulele! Thanks for the visit.
This should be more widely known about in schools! My son was given the Cello to play... "big hands and long arms" he does not have, the poor lad looked like lost behind it.
vinylvenue – Oh my goodness! He is going to loose interest. I hope you will be able to save him for music.... or should I say save music for him? Thanks for visit and comment. I’m going to visit you soon to read some of your hubs. I always get excited when I meet a new hubber in the comment sections of my hubs. Take care!
I LOVED this hub. So well written.
I agree that each instrument suits a personality...my kid played piano for some time but then as he grew up...he was inclined towards guitar NOT the classical one though. He loves to rock and likes to make that kind of music.
I kinda understand why he changed his instrument..thanks to this hub. Thank-You!
Ruchira, this hub with its reference to Atarah Ben-Tovim and Douglas Boyd practical guide to an music instrument that suit your personality has been read 1300 times since I've published it 11 months ago. If only 10% of the readers' children started lessons on the right instrument, I regard it as a must-stay-published. Thank you for coming over for the read.
Happy New Year! We have an only daughter who is aged 6. She is very sociable, likes to dance and play with her friends. She can be quite dominant at times and is not shy. She goes very well at school and sports and also likes music and singing. What instrument would be ideal to start with? Thank you and best wishes
Hi Brian, it is actually impossible to tell when you are not able to see the child. The size/form of the hands, lips, teeth, et cetera also determine the child's aptitude for a specific instrument. At the age of 6 we recommend the violin (size 1/4)or the recorder to start with. Piano preferably not before the age of 8, but an ordinary keyboard may be considered. There are also 1/4 size guitars on the market. The teacher involved will of course give you the best advice. You will never regret encouraging her to master an instrument, and keep in mind that the voice is also a 'music instrument'. I wish you all of the best and great achievements in the world of music.
I always can usually tell which instrument a person plays by their look or by their personality... sometimes it takes me a few minutes to get to know them first... other times I ask them what instrument they play and I can tell alot about them right there. now I know why. Sometimes I'm wrong, but usually its because they ended up playing an instrument they don't like and when I suggest a different one they seem to like that idea better... kinda cool how instruments have personalities and how important it is to find the right instrument. Too often I find people that hate playing in a band simply because they hate the instrument and admit that they were forced into an instrument they didn't like. Band teacher's please take heed of this warning... by the time kids get older... it's only the ones that like the instruments that keep going... feel free to switch kids instruments early if you notice they don't like their instrument...
Also on a side note... Trombone isn't the most accurate description... Out of all the Trombonists I know (including my mother) there's only about 1 that would fit that description... Trombone players tend to be alot like Saxophone players at times. But with a different element... so perhaps with the already given description with a touch of saxophone... it might be the perfect description.
Kim, thank you so much for your generous comment. I agree all the way with you. I am going to paste your last paragraph in the hub. Thanks a lot.
great hub. I was just trying to decide whether to start my son out on the piano or guitar. This has helped!Thanks!
Kelley, it is so important to chose the right instrument; I am truly glad this hub meant something for you. The importance of music education should never be underestimated. I wish you all of the best.
great hub!!!!!!!!!!!!i was just wondering i f i should play clarinet or flute. i picked clarinet because definitely am not shy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Im a 49yr old parent that wishes he could ply an instrument. My kids play at school and wife has some school band and piano expierence. I love music but tend to do things in a ' all or nothing' way. So before I decide on paying alot of money for something I might not stick with, I was wondering what or how do I choose. I would love to learn something I could play some popular tunes with. My oldest plays the trumpet(16) and youngest sings, drums and piano (she cant seem to stick to one(13)). Piano isnt my thing and regular guitar seems awkward tho I have been thinking of a lap steel guitar.
Have any suggestions?
Hi Dwayne, at 49 it not that easy to master a music instrument. Our muscles in and around the lips no longer have the flexibility to obtain the needed embouchure for a wind or brass instrument, not to talk about our fingers no longer able to accomplish the piano. I suggest you stick to your idea to try the lap steel guitar... and maybe you can even try some of the other other strings. The secret of success lies in pRaCtIcE. We CAN do anything we want to do if we do it until we get it right. I wish you luck, determination and perseverance...
kj ~ I do know flute players who are not at all shy. They have enough talent to master any instrument; they have simply decided to play the flute because they love the sound of it... I would say you ought to listen to your gut feeling. You can always do both until you are sure which one connects the best with your soul. I wish you all of the best...
hi there, enjoyed it very much, when I was a kid I really liked to play cello or flute like my cousin but my dad and step mom thought it was a stupid idea, and I always envied my cousins who their mom sent them to private music class. well because here in Iran you don't actually live until you're hopefully married to someone nice, and he can help you to get what you want. so until then I was alone by myself protecting my little sister from that beast (step mom) who hit us every time.
I could remember making a instrument by a piece of wood and some thread like a guitar and closely listened if they made a sound, but they didn't. or draw a keyboard on a paper and simulate the sounds by mouth.
I was so lonely and nightmare of that time still scare me at nights.
now,I'm 27 married, but no money to play my favorite instruments like cello, flute or oboe, or deep dark bassoon when it play the sad melody.
thanks to internet and youtube I got to know them, how wonderful they are. I'm currently children's books write/illustrator. hoping to do sth for them,
I don't know why I wrote it but I can't live without listening to classical and magical music, where the dreams can come true.
Bahareh, thank you for sharing your story with me. Gosh, your childhood must have been a nightmare. Don't stop looking for an opportunity to play at least one of your favorite instruments. We are never too old to learn. Although you will not reach the heights you could have reached, you can at least aim for the moon - then you will be among the stars. I wish you all of the best, and also with your work as illustrator/writer of children's books.
thank you for replying to me, I didn't you would because I was mentioned somehow I'm Iranian, and you know the rest. you're right. and thank you for that honesty and being supportive. which I needed. I think I would go with cello some day, because it says the sad story that no other instrument can tell, although it would be hard to not thinking about the others, because together they make a world of harmony which every instrument plays a role beautifully.
I can't say how much I like to sit on chairs once and take the cello on my hands, I can imagine how magical that moment would be. I think I would combine with it. and become one.
thank you again. thanks for your support, and friendly response. thank you.
Bahareh, it doesn't matter where we live or in what culture group we were born and raised. We are all Homo Sapiens with exactly the same psychological and biological systems. We are born with an aptitude to like music; some of us have more of this, and therefor we long to make music via inter alia a music instrument. I love the cello; it has a soothing and romantic sound. Please try your best to get one - borrow, beg or buy one - Don't allow anything or anybody to convince you that your dreams can not become reality. If you can dream it, you can do it. Hard work, but what of value in this life does not demand hard work and a lot of efforts? Please keep me informed... :)
many thanks to you. much respect for you. I appreciate your attitude toward people and I adore whom have the same as you. I absolutely agree with you.
I try my best to get a cello and feel it with all of my soul. you don't know how much your responses have helped me. you are the best.
Bahareh
Bahareh, oh, you have touched my heart. Thank you for your email. I am going to add you to my Facebook before the end of this day. May all your dreams come true :)
Martie,thank you very much for the great tips, i was thinking of selecting a musical instrument for my son who is just 5 years old now. He is very quiet....so now i can decide what to select for him, what its very hard to find out music school or teacher where we live.Thanks, looking forward more tips from your hub!!
Hi Ahala, at the age of 5 I recommend violin or recorder to begin with. I hope you find a teacher able to give preparatory tuition to kiddies not yet able (emotionally ready) to read music. At 5 music should be playing, stimulating a child's sense for rhythm and melody - improving melodic memory, et cetera. Please Google 'Kindermusik' for some important information. They do have schools all over the world... http://www.kindermusik.com/
Micky Dee Level 4 Commenter 18 months ago
Wow! I'm amazed at the science of choosing an instrument. I played the trumpet and I wish I had stuck with it or chosen the sax. I love the Sax. Thank you very much for this hub. I'm delightfully surprised. and most kids who choose the piano before eight will fail. Great hub!