Finding the Right Fit for Your Musical Journey đžđ„đč
When starting in-home music lessons, choosing your first instrument is an exciting step toward discovering your musical voice! Whether you’re drawn to the rich strum of a guitar, the rhythm of a drum kit, or the expressive range of a piano, having the right instrument can make learning more enjoyable and successful from day one.
This guide will walk you through the key considerations for selecting a guitar, drum set, or electric piano â breaking down the differences between electric and acoustic options, offering budget-friendly recommendations, and even linking to specific models to explore. While online shopping is convenient, nothing beats trying out instruments in person when possible.
Letâs find the instrument that inspires you to play, practice, and have fun every step of the way!
Choosing A Guitar
For guitar lessons, the primary consideration when choosing a guitar is whether to get an acoustic or an electric guitar.
About Electric Guitars
An electric guitar creates sound by plugging into an amplifier (âampâ for short). The amp is then plugged into an electrical outlet. The speaker on the amp can project sound at very loud or soft volumes. Small, battery-powered amps are available for the electric guitar player who wants to practice on the go but typically arenât quite as versatile as the higher-wattage amps.
About Acoustic Guitars
An acoustic guitar is a hollow guitar that produces sound naturally (like a violin, mandolin, cello, etc) without being connected to an amp or other speaker. There is also what is referred to as an “acoustic-electric” guitar. This is just an acoustic guitar with built-in electronics that allow it to be played through an amp or PA speaker when louder volumes are desired.
Why We Recommend Starting with an Electric Guitar
I recommend getting an electric one unless a student is set on an acoustic guitar. Electric guitars’ main advantage is their versatility. When paired with the proper amp, you can go from hard rock to country twang or smooth jazz and everything in between with a couple of buttons! Due to the lighter string tension, they are typically a little easier to play than most acoustic guitars.
Buying An Electric Guitar
Electric Guitars at Sweetwater
Below is a link to some electric guitars from the website of the popular music gear company Sweetwater.
On many sites like this, you can “filter” your search results, a great tool for understanding what you want and how much money you’re willing to spend. I have already filtered this page to show only non-used 6-string electric guitars, priced from low to high, as you scroll down the page:
Guitars also come as “starter pack” options. These are especially great for electric guitars since you need an amp and cable with them. Here are some examples:
These are great lists to familiarize you with some options. However, it’s never a bad idea to go to the local music store and check some out in person. Once you decide whether to go acoustic or electric, I can send you some guitars at different price points with which I’ve had good experiences.
Choosing A Drum Set ( Drum Kit )
When beginning drum lessons, the main factor to consider when choosing a drum set (or drum âkitâ) is whether you go with the traditional acoustic set or an electric set that requires an outlet to plug the drums and amplifier/speaker into.
You most likely picture acoustic drum sets when you think of drums. These are what most rock bands use when playing live. The main disadvantage of an acoustic drum set is that they are loud. If youâre worried about neighbors living nearby or disturbing other family members, I suggest looking at the electronic drum sets. To hear the drums, you will also need an amp/speaker. You can control the volume of electric drums by just simply turning the volume knob up or down. Headphones can also be used for quiet practice time!
Here is a link to some electronic drum sets. I have filtered it to show them from least (starting at the top) to most expensive as you scroll down:
Choosing the right piano for piano lessons can be overwhelming! Here is a link to an article that quickly describes the differences between a âdigital pianoâ and a âportable keyboard.â Unlike a larger acoustic piano, both will need to be plugged into an electrical outlet.
In summary, digital pianos with âweightedâ keys are the route to go for anyone serious about learning piano. However, I have plenty of students who have started on a less expensive keyboard before making the jump to weighted keys.
Here is a link to a digital piano I have personal experience with. I can recommend it as an excellent option for students who want a piano that will last them for years with no limitations but isnât too expensive. It also comes with a matching sturdy stand and piano bench, both of which are a must:
Here is a link to a collection of keyboards filtered to show results from least to most expensive. These might be good for a young beginner. I recommend choosing one with at least 61 âtouch-sensitiveâ or âvelocity-sensitiveâ keys:
As you can see, these options can be a little cheaper and serviceable for someone just starting their music journey!
Going to see and touch the different options for yourself at a local music store is never a bad idea; as always, donât hesitate to reach out with any further questions.
