What’s the Best String Instrument?

Finding the best stringed instrument depends on various factors, such as age, musical goals, and personal preferences. With an array of options available, such as cello, violin, guitar, and bass, there is an entire world to discover. For those seeking an instrument with a timeless appeal and a rich heritage, string instruments provide incredible options. Here is a guide to help you choose which string instrument is right for you.

What Factors to Consider

When selecting an instrument, it is important to consider the individual’s age, physical size, and musical taste. Studies indicate that 85% of beginners are more likely to continue learning if they are satisfied with their initial instrument choice, underscoring the significance of making the right decision from the start. Here are a few factors to consider:

• Musical Goals: Considering your musical aspirations is crucial in selecting an instrument. Do you envision yourself as more of an orchestral player or more of a pop or rock star? Whether pursuing music as a hobby or a professional career, choosing an instrument that complements your goals will enhance your overall learning experience and enjoyment. 
  
• Age/Physical Fit: The ukulele is the perfect instrument for young children due to its small size and weight. It is an ideal stringed instrument for children under the age of seven to start their musical journey with. The electric guitars and the double bass are better suited for tweens and older individuals because of their heavier weight. Acoustic guitars and violins range in size and can be started at a young age. You want to make sure you or your child are comfortable with the instrument being played.
  
• Musical Preferences: Another critical factor is considering your musical preferences. Are you a fan of jazz or bluegrass? Do you enjoy guitar solos in classic rock songs? Listening to the different genres could help you choose an instrument. If you appreciate all genres of music, selecting an instrument based on its versatility may be the best option. Another factor is if you want an acoustic or electric sound. Acoustic instruments produce natural sound, while electric instruments require amplification (which adds additional costs). Choosing an instrument based on your taste might inspire you to want to play along to your favorite songs.
  
• Storage: The double bass, cello, harp, and guitar are larger in size compared to the other string instruments. They also require additional space for storing their music stands and protective cases, which can be bulky. Ensure that you have enough space to store your instrument when you are not practicing. Additionally, electric and bass guitars require amplifiers, so take that into consideration as well.

Categories of String Instruments

String instruments have been vital to music-making since ancient civilizations, and their importance is massive in Western music today. String instruments are featured in various genres such as pop, jazz, classical, rock, folk, and more. They account for 36% of orchestral musicians, and guitarists and bassists play a crucial role in contemporary bands. Here is a look at some of the most popular string instruments.

Bowed String Instruments

Bowed string instruments are played by moving a bow across their strings. They share features such as wooden bodies, horsehair bows, and techniques like bowing and plucking, making them versatile across various musical styles. Additionally, approximately 70% of string musicians utilize bow technique. Here is an in-depth look at each bowed string instrument.

Violin: The violin is the smallest and highest-pitched (soprano) instrument in the string family. It has a hollow wooden body and four strings tuned in perfect fifths: G-D-A-E. It is played using a bow and can also be plucked. The violin comes in nine different sizes, making it appropriate for all ages.

History: The violin has a rich history dating back to the early 16th century in Italy. It evolved from earlier stringed instruments like the medieval fiddle. Andrea Amati of Cremona is credited with creating some of the first modern violins around 1555. They currently play a significant role in contemporary orchestras, making up 50% of the members.

Viola: The Viola, slightly larger than a violin, produces a deeper sound and is considered the alto voice of the violin family. It is tuned from low to high: C-G-D-A.

History: The viola originated in 16th-century Italy alongside the violin. It is primarily used for playing inner harmonies in ensembles. It is valued for its unique sound and ability to bridge the tonal gap between the violin and the cello.

Cello: Much larger than the violin, the cello has a full sound (tenor) and is played while sitting down, supported between the knees. It is tuned in perfect fifths: C-G-D-A. Studies show cello players spend 30% more time practicing due to the complexity of the instrument. It is large in size, making it harder to transport.

History: The cello, also known as the violoncello, was developed in Italy in the early 16th century, evolving from earlier bowed instruments. By the 17th century, its modern form was established.

Double Bass: The double bass is the largest and lowest-pitched string instrument. It has four strings tuned to E-A-D-G and can be played while standing or seated. Like the cello, the size of the instrument makes it difficult to transport. It is mainly found in blues, jazz, and orchestras.

History: The double bass, originating from the viol and bass violin in the 16th century, gained prominence in orchestral music during the 19th century and became popular in jazz during the 20th century.

Plucked and Strummed String Instruments

String instruments that are plucked or strummed produce a range of sounds and playing techniques. Approximately 10% of the world’s population knows how to play the guitar, demonstrating this instrument group’s popularity.

Guitar: With over 1 million guitars sold in the US annually, the guitar is the most popular string instrument. Tuned to E-A-D-G-B-E, it has six or 12 strings and can be played acoustically or electrically using fingers or a pick. While acoustic guitars offer a warmer and natural sound, electric guitars provide a range of sounds and effects through various pickups and amp settings.

History: The guitar originates from ancient civilizations in Greece and Egypt, evolving from early plucked instruments such as the lute and vihuela. Steel-string acoustic and electric guitars were introduced in the 20th century.

Bass Guitar: The bass guitar resembles the electric guitar but features a longer neck and four strings. It is tuned in fourths E-A-D-G and plays a crucial role in connecting the rhythm with the harmony. Like the electric guitar, the bass uses pick-ups to capture the strings’ vibrations. Bass guitars are used in almost every genre of music, from rock and jazz to funk, blues, and classical.

History: The bass guitar evolved from the double bass. Its development began in the 1930s when Paul Tutmarc created one of the first electric bass prototypes. The Fender Precision Bass in 1951 marked the birth of the modern electric bass guitar.

Mandolin: A mandolin has eight strings arranged in four pairs and is tuned like a violin (G-D-A-E). The mandolin is played with a pick and is commonly used in classical, bluegrass, folk, and country music.

History: The mandolin, a member of the lute family, originated in 17th-century Italy and took its modern shape in Naples. Its journey to prominence in the USA during the 19th century was greatly influenced by the Gibson company. Today, it continues to play a significant role in bluegrass and country music.

Ukulele: The ukulele is shaped like a miniature guitar with four nylon strings. A standard ukulele is tuned to G-C-E-A. It is often associated with Hawaiian music.

History: The ukulele originated in Hawaii in the late 19th century. It was developed from the machete, an instrument brought to the islands by Portuguese immigrants. The instrument was named “ukulele,” which means “jumping flea” in Hawaiian due to the quick finger movements required to play it.

Banjo: The banjo, typically with four or five strings tuned to G-C-G-B-D, produces a twangy sound and is played by plucking or strumming. It is mainly used in bluegrass, country, and folk music.

History: The banjo was brought to America by enslaved Africans in the 17th century. By the 19th century, the design had evolved, becoming a crucial instrument in folk, country, and bluegrass music.

Harp: The harp is played by plucking its 19 to 47 strings, which run perpendicular to the soundboard. It is large and can be played sitting or standing.

History: The harp is one of the oldest instruments, dating back to ancient civilizations in Egypt and Persia around 3500 BCE. It eventually made its way to Europe and increased in size. Today, it is a prominent instrument in orchestras and classical music.

Practice Tips and Expectations

It is important to practice regularly when learning an instrument. Beginners should aim to practice for 15 to 30 minutes a day, gradually working up to 1 hour daily. Here are some practice tips to help you maximize your learning.

• Get a Binder: Get a binder specifically for your sheet music to help keep you organized.
• Tune: Making sure your instrument is tuned is essential for starting your practice session. Even the slightest bump could cause a string instrument to go out of tune, so be cautious.
• Rosin Your Bow: Before playing a bowed instrument, ensure that your bow is properly rosined.
• Develop a Routine: Develop a daily routine consisting of warm-ups, scales, bow exercises, and more. This can serve as the foundation for your practice and can be expanded as you progress.
• Use a Mirror: Remember to use a mirror when playing string instruments such as the violin, viola, harp, and cello. Good posture is crucial for preventing injury and strain.
• Metronome: Using a metronome during warm-ups to measure the beats per minute will significantly improve your playing.
• Mark Your Sheet Music: Marking up your sheet music to indicate specific moments in a song is a helpful way to identify difficulties and work through them.
• Find a Teacher: Learning to play an instrument on your own can provide more challenges than solutions. Wherever you decide to find an instructor, you will want to look for a great personality match and someone who will guide you, provide feedback, and share their musical experiences. This will help ensure that you are spending every minute of your time wisely. If you would like to learn a little more about finding your perfect teacher, click here. 

When choosing a string instrument, you have plenty of options. Your decision should align with your personal preferences and physical considerations, aiming to find an instrument that will bring you joy on your musical journey. Check out the videos in this guide to determine which instrument would best suit you. String instruments can be played in various genres and styles, and the best way to start is by taking lessons. You can learn more here.