Which instrument should you play? | Think Like A Musician

Key Concepts

• Instrumental Connection: The deeply personal and often inexplicable connection individuals feel towards specific musical instruments.
• Self-Expression & Identity: The role of music and instrument choice in expressing personality, finding identity, and coping with emotions.
• Musical Journey & Exploration: The process of trying different instruments and ultimately finding the one that resonates most.
• Technical vs. Emotional Connection: The balance between understanding music theory and experiencing the emotional impact of playing.
• Rhythm & Harmony: The distinct roles of instruments like bass guitar in providing rhythmic foundation and harmonic support.
• The Power of Mentorship: The importance of supportive teachers who encourage independent learning and exploration.

The Allure of Instruments: A Personal Exploration of Musical Connection

This discussion centers around the deeply personal experiences musicians have with their chosen instruments, exploring the motivations, journeys, and emotional connections that drive their musical pursuits. The core theme revolves around why individuals gravitate towards specific instruments, moving beyond technical considerations to the realm of feeling and self-discovery.

Finding "Your Thing": Initial Attraction & Exploration

The conversation begins with the idea that the initial pull towards an instrument is often mysterious and profound. One musician recounts hearing the lap steel guitar as a pivotal moment, stating, “I couldn’t possibly recognize that it was going to be as important a moment as it’s become…there was no turning back.” This highlights the inexplicable nature of this connection – a sound that resonated deeply and irrevocably.

Many musicians describe a period of exploration, trying various instruments before settling on their primary one. One individual started with clarinet in 5th grade, then flute and alto saxophone, ultimately finding their passion in the oboe after extensive research on YouTube. This illustrates the importance of experimentation and exposure to different sounds. Another musician’s initial choice of piano was driven by a childhood crush, but evolved into a genuine love for the instrument. This demonstrates that even seemingly superficial motivations can lead to lasting musical engagement.

The Instrument as a Vehicle for Self-Expression

Several speakers emphasize the role of their instrument as a means of self-expression and emotional outlet. The guitar, for example, is described as a “travelable companion” for someone who felt a sense of not belonging, providing a way to articulate feelings. Another musician states, “Now, I pick up my guitar and I can’t imagine doing anything else. It’s an outlet for me. It’s like my form of self-expression.” This underscores the therapeutic and identity-forming power of music. Music is described as “a language” and “a way to connect,” highlighting its ability to transcend words and foster understanding.

Technical Considerations & Musical Roles

While emotional connection is paramount, technical aspects and the inherent qualities of each instrument also play a role. The bass guitar is characterized as being about “a combination of rhythm and harmony,” requiring a love for “groove” and an appreciation for the “power of repeating a bassline.” Playing bass is likened to “meditation,” suggesting a calming and focused experience.

The piano is described as a “super power instrument” because “all of music theory is laid out before you,” providing a foundational understanding that can be applied to other instruments. One musician notes that understanding piano theory aids in approaching the guitar, which is considered less “linear.” This highlights the value of a strong theoretical base.

The Importance of Mentorship & Independent Learning

The role of a supportive teacher is emphasized through the story of a piano student named Florence. She encouraged independent exploration, advising her student to “try it on your own with your ears” before seeking assistance. This approach fostered a love for the process of discovery and a deeper understanding of the instrument. This illustrates the benefit of a mentorship style that prioritizes self-reliance and ear training.

Navigating Musical Paths & Prioritization

The conversation acknowledges the practical realities of musical pursuits. One musician, after years of playing alto saxophone, realized the limitations of time and the need to “triage” their musical focus. While loving the saxophone, they recognized the need to prioritize instruments that aligned with their long-term goals. This demonstrates the importance of self-assessment and strategic decision-making in a musical career.

Drumming: A Unique Path to Engagement

The journey to drumming is presented as distinct from other instruments. The speaker found piano and guitar intimidating, but drumming offered “an immediate shock of power and excitement.” The simplicity and gratification of drumming circumvented their tendency towards impatience, making it a uniquely satisfying experience. This suggests that instrument choice should align with one’s personality and learning style.

Connecting with the Audience & Finding Your Voice

The discussion concludes with a call to action, encouraging listeners to identify “that light inside of you” – their passion and unique gift. The advice to “see what moves you” when attending shows suggests that inspiration can be found by observing performers and identifying with their energy. The final thought emphasizes the importance of opening oneself to opportunities, believing that “the right thing will find you.”

Synthesis:

This conversation reveals that choosing an instrument is rarely a purely logical decision. It’s a deeply personal journey driven by emotional resonance, self-discovery, and a willingness to explore. While technical skills and theoretical knowledge are valuable, the most enduring connection comes from finding an instrument that allows for authentic self-expression and fosters a lifelong love of music. The key takeaway is to embrace experimentation, seek supportive mentorship, and trust the intuitive pull that leads you to “your thing.”