Traveling with a musical instrument can be a hassle, especially if you’re trying to avoid costly checked baggage fees.
But there are a few instruments out there that are small enough to fit in carry-on luggage, making them the perfect travel companions for musicians on the go.
Here are a few of our favorite small musical instruments!
What is the Simplest Musical Instrument to Play?
Though there are many opinions on what the simplest musical instrument to play is, the answer may depend on a few different factors:
- For some people, the easiest instrument to play may be one that they are already familiar with, such as the piano or guitar.
- For others, it may be an instrument that requires little physical effort, such as the flute.
- In terms of pure difficulty, however, some experts believe that the easiest instrument to learn is actually the recorder.
- The recorder is a type of flute that uses simple fingerings and has a limited range of notes.
- As a result, it can be relatively easy for beginners to produce a clear sound on the recorder. Though it is sometimes overlooked, the recorder may be the perfect choice for those looking for a simple and accessible musical instrument.
No matter what instrument you decide to learn, signing up for online music lessons can help you master it. Learn more about the benefits of online music lessons by watching the video below:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VZb2Kxy7I8A
What Are the Smallest Musical Instruments?
With life’s hectic pace, we know busy music students sometimes find it difficult to keep up practice time and consistent lessons. Now that summer is here and many students also have travel plans coming up, it can be tempting to put music lessons and learning on hold. However, these 5 pint-sized instruments make it easy to travel light and still get your music fix! Read on and decide which musical instrument you’ll be packing in your carry-on bag this summer…
1. Ukulele
In addition to being small, light, and portable, the charming ukulele lends the sounds of the Hawaiian Islands to your summer travels. Guitarists and students of other stringed instruments will find much of what you already know applies to how to play the ukulele, but there is still enough difference to add interest to your traveling practice sessions.
2. Harmonica
No matter where you’re going, you can always fit a harmonica in your pocket and play a song right on the spot. This bluesy little instrument, sometimes called the “mouth harp” is great for travelers who love blues and folk music. Guitarists especially might be interested in learning harmonica to accompany themselves on guitar, like the legendary Bob Dylan.
3. Melodica
This quirky instrument looks like a tiny piano and is played by blowing into the reed while pressing down its keys. Although the melodica’s range is somewhat limited, piano students will enjoy hearing familiar pieces transformed by this small instrument, and it can provide a great, portable aid to practice reading music.
4. Flute
Most flutes are lightweight, thin instruments that can easily fit in a backpack. Students interested in classical music will love learning to read music and playing tunes on this clear-toned wind instrument.
5. Bongo Drums
Okay, so this one doesn’t quite fit in your carry-on bag, but compared to lugging a full-sized drum set around, a couple of bongo drums look incredibly portable. Drummers can easily practice keeping time and learn more complex rhythms on these comparatively tiny drums.
Extra Credit: Your Voice
If none of the above instruments appeals to you, guess what? You already have an instrument you carry with you every day. Why not take the time to develop your singing voice? Start by taking singing lessons and you’ll find you can practice just about anywhere, with little or no equipment necessary!
A Longer List of Small Musical Instruments
Handheld musical instruments are a staple of many cultures across the globe. From the sprightly tunes of a fiddle to the joyous jingling of a maraca, these instruments add an element of fun and liveliness to any gathering.
Unusual Small Musical Instruments
While many people are familiar with common handheld instruments such as guitars and drums, there is a wide variety of less familiar instruments that are equally exciting to play.
The banjo, for example, is a plucked string instrument with African origins that is often associated with country music.
The mandolin is another small string instrument that is similar to a guitar, although it has a much higher pitch.
Another unusual small musical instrument is the accordion. Usually associated with polka music, the accordion can actually be used in a wide range of styles, from folk to rock. In addition, the accordion has a unique ability to create a sense of space and depth in a song.
Another string instrument, the sitar, is widely used in Hindustani classical music and has a distinctive resonating sound. The shehnai is another type of wind instrument that is commonly played at Indian weddings.
Small Handheld Musical Instruments – Wind
While many people think of wind instruments as being large and cumbersome, there are actually a number of small handheld options available. These include the recorder, penny whistle, and ocarina. They are perfect for beginners or those who want to play music on the go. In addition, they are relatively affordable and offer a great way to get started with playing music.
Cool Small Musical Instruments – Strings
From guitars and ukuleles to violins and cellos, there is a wide range of string instruments that can be played in a small space. What’s more, strings are relatively easy to learn how to play, making them a great option for beginner musicians. With a little practice, anyone can learn to create beautiful music on a string instrument.
Best Small Musical Instruments – Percussion
There are a wide variety of percussion instruments available, making it easy to find one that suits your needs.
For example, if you’re looking for a portable instrument that can be played without electricity, a handheld drum such as a bongo or conga is a great option. If you’re looking for an instrument that can create a range of sounds, consider a djembe or electric drum kit. And if you’re looking for an instrument that’s perfect for creating rhythms, a tambourine or shaker is a great choice.
Which of These Small Music Instruments Is Right For You?
Whether you’re a seasoned musician or just starting out, traveling with an instrument doesn’t have to be a hassle.
There are plenty of small instruments that can easily fit in your carry-on bag—including ukuleles, harmonicas, recorders, kazoos, and guitars—so you can enjoy making music no matter where you go.
Are you a musician planning to travel this summer? Let us know what you’re taking in your carry-on bag in the comments!
–Megan L. TakeLessons Staff Member and Blogger
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–5 Must-Read Tips for Your First Lesson
–Time-Saving Hacks for Busy Music Students
–5 Practice Tips with a Spring Break Twist
Photo by Kuster and Wildhaber Photography
Megan L.