What Instrument Should I Play?

If airy,<\/b> high-pitched music is your vibe, you should play the flute<\/b>. Certain types of flutes can even reach lower note ranges, like the alto<\/b> and bass flutes<\/b>. You might also like the piccolo<\/b>, a smaller (and more high-pitched) version of the flute that\u2019s often used in marching band ensembles.

If warm<\/b>, you should play the clarinet<\/b> (a medium-to-high-pitched instrument that\u2019s played with a single-reed mouthpiece). You can also specialize in a different type of clarinet. For instance, the E-flat clarinet<\/b> plays slightly higher than a standard clarinet, while the alto<\/b> and bass clarinets<\/b> play a lower note range.

If jazzy<\/b>, you should play the saxophone<\/b>. It\u2019s a single-reed woodwind instrument that isn\u2019t part of a traditional orchestra (but is an integral part of jazz bands). Alto saxophones are the most well-known type of saxophone and have a higher range, while tenor saxophones and baritone saxophones are known for their larger size and lower note range.

If unique<\/b>, you should play the oboe<\/b> or bassoon<\/b>. The oboe is a medium-to-high-pitched woodwind instrument, while the bassoon has a lower pitch. The bassoon is the largest woodwind instrument of them all (minus the contrabassoon, which is larger and has a deeper range).","edit_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Flute"},{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Alto-Saxophone"}],"link_data":[{"title":"How to Play the Flute","id":4150,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Flute","image":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/2e\/Play-the-Flute-Step-14.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Play-the-Flute-Step-14.jpg","alt":"How to Play the Flute"},{"title":"How to Play the Alto Saxophone","id":15142,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Alto-Saxophone","image":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/b0\/Play-the-Alto-Saxophone-Step-17.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Play-the-Alto-Saxophone-Step-17.jpg","alt":"How to Play the Alto Saxophone"}],"minimum":0},{"text":"You should play trumpet or French horn.","meaning":"It sounds like you want to play a bright, show-stopping instrument that catches everyone\u2019s attention\u2014so why not give a brass instrument like the trumpet or French horn a try? These instruments are usually crafted from brass, and use a combination of valves and a mouthpiece to produce beautiful notes. Before we match you to your perfect instrument, choose one more word that describes your favorite music: bright or mellow.

If bright<\/b>, you should play the trumpet<\/b>. Trumpets are fairly small brass instruments that can be played both sitting and standing up. They\u2019re known for their bright, warm tone within a band or orchestra. If you\u2019re interested in joining your school\u2019s marching band or a professional drum corps, the trumpet could be a great option.

If mellow<\/b>, you should play the French horn<\/b>. French horns are slightly larger, rounded brass instruments that are typically played sitting down. They\u2019re known for the rich, diverse sound they add to an ensemble, though they\u2019re a little trickier to learn than the trumpet. If you\u2019re interested in challenging yourself with a beautiful instrument, the French horn could be the perfect option for you.","edit_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet"},{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-French-Horn"}],"link_data":[{"title":"How to Play the Trumpet","id":42937,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet","image":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/0f\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-19.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-19.jpg","alt":"How to Play the Trumpet"},{"title":"How to Play the French Horn","id":47413,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-French-Horn","image":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/89\/Play-the-French-Horn-Step-22-Version-3.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Play-the-French-Horn-Step-22-Version-3.jpg","alt":"How to Play the French Horn"}],"minimum":0},{"text":"You should play trombone or tuba.","meaning":"It sounds like you want to be part of the band without being the center of attention. A low brass instrument like the trombone or tuba could be a perfect option for you! As members of the brass family, trombones and tubas are made entirely from metal (usually brass) and are known for the deeper, lower notes they typically play. In a school band, you\u2019d sit toward the back of the ensemble. Before we match you to your perfect instrument, choose one more word that describes your favorite music: adaptable or powerful.

If adaptable<\/b>, you should play the trombone<\/b>. Trombones are long instruments that use a mouthpiece as well as a metallic slide to make different sounds. Trombones are a staple in most school bands, and also play an important role in professional orchestras and jazz ensembles. If you\u2019re looking for a versatile instrument, the trombone could be a great match for you!

If powerful<\/b>, you should play the tuba<\/b>. Tubas are large instruments that use a mouthpiece and valves to produce deep, low notes that support the rest of the ensemble. Playing the tuba requires both physical strength and a strong set of lungs. If you\u2019re feeling up to the task, why not give tuba a try?

Not feeling especially drawn to the tuba or trombone? You might be interested in playing some lesser-known but still very important low brass instruments like the euphonium or baritone. Don\u2019t worry; neither of them is as big as a tuba!","edit_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trombone"},{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-a-Tuba"}],"link_data":[{"title":"How to Play the Trombone","id":12036,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trombone","image":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/f7\/Play-the-Trombone-Step-17.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Play-the-Trombone-Step-17.jpg","alt":"How to Play the Trombone"},{"title":"A Beginner\u2019s Guide to Playing the Tuba","id":222884,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-a-Tuba","image":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/5d\/Play-a-Tuba-Step-17.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Play-a-Tuba-Step-17.jpg","alt":"A Beginner\u2019s Guide to Playing the Tuba"}],"minimum":0},{"text":"You should play a melodic percussion instrument.","meaning":"It sounds like you\u2019d be a great fit for a melodic percussion instrument, like the xylophone, marimba, or vibraphone. These instruments fall into the percussion family since you need to physically hit them with mallets to produce sound. Unlike a snare drum or bass drum, however, melodic percussion instruments create specific notes like a string or wind instrument would.

Xylophones<\/b>, marimbas<\/b>, and vibraphones<\/b> consist of wooden (xylophone\/marimba) or metal (vibraphone) keys that are laid out similar to a piano. When struck with a mallet, these keys produce different notes. The xylophone<\/b> sound resembles a bell, while the marimba<\/b> sounds a little gentler and more mature. The vibraphone<\/b> can hold notes for longer, which have a \u201cwiggly\u201d quality to them. The instrument you choose ultimately depends on the type of sound you like best!

You might also prefer a completely different melodic percussion instrument like the high-pitched glockenspiel<\/b> (a smaller version of the xylophone) or the timpani<\/b> (a set of drums that can be tuned to specific notes).","edit_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Marimba"},{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-a-Glockenspiel"}],"link_data":[{"title":"How to Play the Marimba","id":569781,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Marimba","image":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/ce\/Play-the-Marimba-Step-18.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Play-the-Marimba-Step-18.jpg","alt":"How to Play the Marimba"},{"title":"How to Play a Glockenspiel","id":3048818,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-a-Glockenspiel","image":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c7\/Play-a-Glockenspiel-Step-16-Version-2.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Play-a-Glockenspiel-Step-16-Version-2.jpg","alt":"How to Play a Glockenspiel"}],"minimum":0},{"text":"You should play a rhythmic percussion instrument.","meaning":"You seem to be full of energy and always on the move\u2014so why not give a rhythmic percussion instrument a try? Instruments in the percussion family need to be hit to make noise; while melodic instruments like the xylophone create specific notes, rhythmic percussion instruments create untuned sounds that provide the rhythmic backbone for a piece of music. Before we match you to your perfect instrument, choose one more word from this list that describes your favorite music: bold, intense, or flexible.

If bold<\/b>, you should play the snare drum<\/b>. The snare drum creates a sharp, distinctive rapping sound, and is the instrument used to make iconic drum rolls. If you want to make some noise (and get noticed while you do it), this could be a great instrument to learn.

If intense<\/b>, you should play the bass drum<\/b>. The bass drum creates a deeper thump that helps support a larger ensemble. If you want to play one of the biggest percussion instruments out there, the bass drum could be in your future.

If flexible<\/b>, you should play the drum kit<\/b>. The drum kit is a combination of different cymbals and drums all operated by one person. It\u2019s a versatile instrument that works well with a variety of music genres and is a great option if you\u2019re hoping to play in a rock band or jazz ensemble.

Not totally sold on any of the instruments here? You might enjoy some of the more unique instruments the rhythmic percussion family has to offer, like shakers, castanets, wood blocks, cowbells, wind chimes, triangles, and more.","edit_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-Drums"},{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Do-a-Drum-Roll"}],"link_data":[{"title":"How to Play Drums","id":38528,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-Drums","image":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/9e\/Play-Drums-Step-12-Version-4.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Play-Drums-Step-12-Version-4.jpg","alt":"How to Play Drums"},{"title":"How to Do a Drum Roll","id":11235058,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Do-a-Drum-Roll","image":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/d1\/Do-a-Drum-Roll-Step-14-Version-2.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Do-a-Drum-Roll-Step-14-Version-2.jpg","alt":"How to Do a Drum Roll"}],"minimum":0},{"text":"You should play the violin or cello.","meaning":"You want to make heads turn with your music\u2014which is exactly why you and the violin or cello could be a match made in heaven. This pint-sized violin<\/b> demands attention with its exquisite, high range of notes, while the larger cello<\/b> boasts a range of both high and low notes (that sound somewhat similar to human vocals).

Unlike woodwind and brass instruments (like flutes, clarinets, and trumpets), violins and cellos don\u2019t have a mouthpiece that produces sound. As members of the string family, violins and cellos produce sound with 4 strings, which are manipulated with a bow and the musician\u2019s fingers.

Both cellos and violins get to play the melody (the primary tune of a song) and the harmony (the tune that supports the melody), making it a great option for any prospective musician who wants to be noticed. The main difference comes down to size\u2014if you want a small, lightweight instrument, the violin could be more your speed. If you don\u2019t mind the cello\u2019s larger, 4 ft (1.2 m) size, this instrument could be the best option for you.","edit_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Violin"},{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Cello"}],"link_data":[{"title":"How to Play the Violin","id":4126,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Violin","image":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/5b\/Play-the-Violin-Step-3-Version-7.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Play-the-Violin-Step-3-Version-7.jpg","alt":"How to Play the Violin"},{"title":"How to Play the Cello","id":120634,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Cello","image":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/b2\/Play-the-Cello-Step-17.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Play-the-Cello-Step-17.jpg","alt":"How to Play the Cello"}],"minimum":0},{"text":"You should play the viola.","meaning":"You crave a sense of individuality as a musician and may be interested in instruments that are a little less well-known than popular alternatives like the guitar, flute, and violin. So, why not give the viola<\/b> a try?

Like the violin, the viola is a string instrument that produces sound with 4 strings and a bow. The viola, however, has a warmer, fuller sound than the violin, and it typically covers the harmony (the tune that supports the melody) in a given song. The viola is also one of the only instruments in existence to read music on the alto clef (as opposed to the treble or bass clef, which most other instruments use). You\u2019re in for a fun and rewarding musical experience if you choose this niche instrument!","edit_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-Viola"},{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Read-Music"}],"link_data":[{"title":"How to Play Viola","id":100447,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-Viola","image":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/48\/Play-Viola-Step-19-Version-2.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Play-Viola-Step-19-Version-2.jpg","alt":"How to Play Viola"},{"title":"How to Read Music","id":2667,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Read-Music","image":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/90\/Sing-Classically-Step-6.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Sing-Classically-Step-6.jpg","alt":"How to Read Music"}],"minimum":0},{"text":"You should play the harp or double bass.","meaning":"It sounds like you want to play an important role in an ensemble without necessarily being front and center. The harp or double bass could be the perfect option for you\u2014as the largest string instruments out there, they\u2019re great compliments to an orchestra (but are super snazzy in their own right, too). Before we match you to your perfect instrument, choose one more word that describes your favorite music: gentle or booming.

If gentle<\/b>, you should play the harp<\/b>. The harp is a gargantuan string instrument; at 6 ft (1.8 m) tall, the harp is shaped like a capital \u201cD\u201d (or the number 7) and features 47 strings, along with 7 pedals. The harp has a much more versatile range than the double bass and can play both higher and lower notes. If you\u2019re interested in playing angelic-sounding music, the harp could be an excellent choice for you.

If booming<\/b>, you should play the double bass<\/b>. The double bass is the same shape as a violin but is much, much bigger\u2014it\u2019s so large, in fact, that it\u2019s played while standing upright or sitting on a tall seat. This instrument features 4 strings that produce low sounds when plucked or manipulated with a bow. If you\u2019re interested in playing lower notes and rhythms, the double bass might be a great fit for you.

Not interested in playing for an orchestra? You might prefer playing the bass guitar<\/b>, an electric instrument that more closely resembles an electric guitar (while still having just 4 strings).","edit_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-Bass"},{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Harp"}],"link_data":[{"title":"How to Play the Bass Guitar: Tuning, Playing Technique & More","id":67905,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-Bass","image":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/9a\/Play-Bass-Step-5-Version-2.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Play-Bass-Step-5-Version-2.jpg","alt":"How to Play the Bass Guitar: Tuning, Playing Technique & More"},{"title":"How to Play the Harp","id":374390,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Harp","image":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/67\/Play-the-Harp-Step-18.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Play-the-Harp-Step-18.jpg","alt":"How to Play the Harp"}],"minimum":0},{"text":"You should play the guitar.","meaning":"Whether you\u2019re hoping to jam out in a band or start your singing-songwriting career, we think the guitar would be an awesome instrument for you to learn. With all the iconic guitar riffs and legendary guitar solos out there, there are a million and 1 reasons to pick up this amazing, versatile instrument. Before we match you to your perfect instrument, choose one more word from this list that describes your favorite music: cozy, vibrant, or niche.

If cozy<\/b>, you should play the acoustic guitar<\/b>. Acoustic guitars are pretty easy for beginners to get the hang of. If you want a simple, no-frills guitar to help you jam to some of your favorite hits, an acoustic guitar could be a great option for you. If you dream of eventually performing live sets and gigs, you might prefer an electro-acoustic guitar<\/b>, which can be plugged into a sound system.

If vibrant<\/b>, you should play the electric guitar<\/b>. Electric guitars are known for their dynamic, robust sound that\u2019s\u2026 well, electrifying! Electric guitars have a wider sound range than acoustic guitars (especially if you invest in effects pedals)\u2014plus, they\u2019re a great option if you\u2019d like to learn some wicked guitar solos.

If niche<\/b>, you should play the banjo<\/b>, mandolin<\/b>, or ukulele<\/b>. The banjo or mandolin could be great picks if you dig folk-style music, while the ukulele (an instrument hailing from Hawaii) is an excellent option if you\u2019re looking for an instrument with a higher, dream-like sound.","edit_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-Guitar"},{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Learn-to-Play-Electric-Guitar"}],"link_data":[{"title":"How to Play Guitar","id":41603,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-Guitar","image":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/73\/Play-Guitar-Step-13-Version-13.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Play-Guitar-Step-13-Version-13.jpg","alt":"How to Play Guitar"},{"title":"How to Learn to Play Electric Guitar","id":885513,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Learn-to-Play-Electric-Guitar","image":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/a4\/Learn-to-Play-Electric-Guitar-Step-15.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Learn-to-Play-Electric-Guitar-Step-15.jpg","alt":"How to Learn to Play Electric Guitar"}],"minimum":0},{"text":"You should play the piano.","meaning":"Few musical instruments are as versatile and downright iconic as the piano<\/b>\u2014which is exactly why we think you have the makings of a future pianist. The piano is a flexible instrument that works well in so many settings: with an orchestra, with singers, and on its own. With your flexible, go-getter attitude, we bet that you and the piano would be peas in a pod.

Believe it or not, the piano actually belongs to the percussion family of instruments; in other words, it\u2019s an instrument that you need to physically hit or manipulate to produce a sound. While the piano is way<\/i> different from a drum, you\u2019re technically \u201chitting\u201d the keys to create sound. So, a percussion instrument it is!

You don\u2019t need a fancy grand piano to learn or practice piano, though. In this day and age, digital pianos like keyboards and synthesizers make learning piano easier (and more accessible) than ever. Plenty of big-box stores offer keyboards for less than $200, which is great if you\u2019re just wanting to learn the basics.","edit_links":[{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Piano"},{"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Teach-Yourself-to-Play-the-Piano"}],"link_data":[{"title":"How to Play the Piano","id":37277,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Piano","image":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/98\/Play-the-Piano-Step-22-Version-2.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Play-the-Piano-Step-22-Version-2.jpg","alt":"How to Play the Piano"},{"title":"How to Teach Yourself to Play the Piano","id":107960,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Teach-Yourself-to-Play-the-Piano","image":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/bc\/Teach-Yourself-to-Play-the-Piano-Step-18-Version-2.jpg\/-crop-200-200-200px-Teach-Yourself-to-Play-the-Piano-Step-18-Version-2.jpg","alt":"How to Teach Yourself to Play the Piano"}],"minimum":0}]" class="quiz_results_data"/><\/picture>","alt":"What Is My Learning Style Quiz"},{"title":"General Knowledge Quiz","id":14201541,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/General-Knowledge-Quiz","image":"<\/picture>","alt":"General Knowledge Quiz"},{"title":"Am I Smarter than a 5th Grader Quiz","id":14174658,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Are-You-Smarter-than-a-5th-Grader-Quiz","image":"<\/picture>","alt":"Am I Smarter than a 5th Grader Quiz"}],"number":1},{"text":"Having something exciting to do in my free time.","result":"We hear you! We think you might like these quizzes:","next_quizzes":[{"title":"What Should I Do Quiz","id":13648569,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/What-Should-I-Do","image":"<\/picture>","alt":"What Should I Do Quiz"},{"title":"What Book Should I Read Quiz","id":13697090,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/What-Book-Should-I-Read-Quiz","image":"<\/picture>","alt":"What Book Should I Read Quiz"},{"title":"What Movie Should I Watch Quiz","id":14309432,"url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/What-Movie-Should-I-Watch-Quiz","image":"<\/picture>","alt":"What Movie Should I Watch Quiz"}],"number":2}]}" class="quiz_questionnaire_data"/>