Are you a parent thinking of encouraging your child to learn an instrument? If so, you are not alone.
In doing so, many settle on teaching their children learning to play the guitar or the piano. Both instruments have long histories and a plethora of passionate players.
But which is best for children to learn?
The guitar vs piano debate is often long and stressful, but we want to make it easier for you! Read below to learn more about both instruments, why they are great for children, and which could be best for your family.
Physical Ability
Both the guitar and piano are excellent instruments for children to learn and can provide many physical benefits. Children learn both tools and develop finger dexterity, muscle memory, and coordination.
The guitar requires strength and flexibility to hold down strings and can help grow upper body strength. Meanwhile, the piano keys need swift, decisive movement and delicate pressure.
It helps to build fine motor skills and coordination. Ultimately, both instruments can be great options, but while some children may prefer the fluidity of the piano, others may find the flexibility and strength of the guitar more enjoyable.
Musical Interests
The guitar has the potential to be a versatile instrument that can be used to play a variety of styles of music. It can also be portable, and playing with a band or group can be fun and engaging.
Piano, yet, requires more technical knowledge and can open the door to learning more complex music theory. It can also go with vocals or other instruments, making it a complete tool for songwriting.
Both instruments can help foster creativity in children. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference, but the Sloan School of Music provides structure, resources and top-notch teachers so that children can get the most out of either instrument.
Learning Style
In general, a piano offers more structure and easier access to theory in learning music. They learn the basics of key signatures and note reading from the start.
A guitar is more flexible and allows students to learn depending on their style. They might prefer to learn riffs, licks, or chords rather than traditional scales.
Either instrument also offers opportunities for creativity – for instance, due to its strings, working with a guitar can be great for improvised melodic lines. At the same time, the piano can be good for experimenting with different chord progressions. The student’s chosen instrument should fit their learning style, goals, and needs.
Cost
Guitar and piano can both be excellent instruments for kids to learn. The cost of each involves different considerations.
Most guitars need the buy of an amplifier, guitar strings, and other extra pieces. A piano usually comprises the included piano and electric or acoustic stool.
On average, a quality guitar may cost over two hundred dollars with different parts, while a beginner piano can cost around $5,000. While the initial purchase of a guitar may require less than a piano, other things may be needed to upkeep the instrument, such as strings, hardware, and an amp.
Ending the Debate Between Guitar vs Piano
Guitar vs piano are both fantastic instruments for children to learn. With both, there are many opportunities to grow and develop musicality.
Deciding which to learn piano or guitar depends on personal preference and what suits your child best. So, don’t hesitate to speak with a music professional today about the different options available for your child!
To learn more about learning to play a musical instrument, check out the rest of our site.
James Martin is a passionate writer and the founder of OnTimeMagazines & EastLifePro. He loves to write principally about technology trends. He loves to share his opinion on what’s happening in tech around the world.
