6 musical instruments you can learn to play at any age

As you age, it's easy to feel like you're “too old” to do new things. One of the biggest misconceptions is that you can't learn new skills as you age. There is no need to despair, as older people can still learn. Older adults can benefit by staying active and stimulating their brains through hobbies and extracurricular activities. Learning music can help preserve memory, improve hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills, and other skills that are important at any age. It's never too late to try something new, especially if you have a love for music. Here are six musical instruments you can learn to play at any age, from the simplest to the most challenging.

Ukulele

The ukulele is one of the most affordable and simple musical instruments, perfect for beginners. Compact, lightweight and inexpensive, it features only four strings, making it much easier to learn. You won't need a plectrum like you would for guitar, and mastering basic chords will only take a few weeks. The ukulele is easy to take anywhere - it fits easily into a backpack. Its ease of use makes it a great starting point for learning more advanced instruments. Musical pieces played on the ukulele sound lively and emotional, inspiring creativity.

Harmonica

The harmonica is a compact and lightweight musical instrument that can be taken anywhere. However, to master playing it, it is important to master proper breathing technique and breath control. Each sound is created through inhalation or exhalation, which requires precision and coordination. The harmonica is especially popular in blues and country music, adding melody and character. Interestingly, regular harmonica playing improves lung function, helps with facial paralysis and even reduces the risk of stroke in the elderly by exercising the respiratory system.

Piano

A classical instrument, the piano may seem complicated, but it is actually a simple instrument for beginners. Most people are familiar with the basics of playing the piano. Once you have all the keys in front of you and have learned the basics of music theory, all you have to do is play chords. The goal is to play chords and chord progressions with both hands, so you'll have to work on hand-eye coordination. But because piano is such a popular instrument, there are many teachers and tutorials available to help you develop these skills.

Guitar

Like the piano, the guitar is a well-known instrument that is often used by beginners. However, mastering chords on it is more difficult. After a few months of learning, you will be able to master the chords and move on to more advanced lessons. Even if you learn just a few basic chords (three to be exact), you will be able to play many simple songs. There are many varieties of guitars: you can choose from electric guitars, acoustic guitars, or bass guitars. Also, many people teach themselves how to play this instrument, so you can learn at your own pace and in your own way.

Whistle

These inexpensive wind instruments are great for seniors. If you've always loved the sounds of the clarinet or flute, why not try playing a recorder? The recorder is one of the oldest instruments that can be played by both right-handed and left-handed players. It can be played by one person or in an ensemble. Another plus point of this instrument is that it is portable and can be taken anywhere. However, make sure your whistle is tuned to D and has the correct pitch. Both instruments require articulation skills and proper breathing. 

Bongos or drums

Finally, bongos and drums are ideal percussion instruments. They are not as easy to learn as the other instruments listed here, but there are ways to make them easier to master. Bongos are especially popular because they are more versatile and portable than drums, but all of these instruments allow you to express yourself through rhythm and learn steps and rhythms. It's not easy to learn these instruments on your own, so it's best to find an experienced teacher. Make sounds, relieve stress, relax and have fun.

Conclusion 

Mastering a musical instrument at the age of 50 and older is not only a fun activity, but also a useful way to develop cognitive abilities, coordination, and fine motor skills. As you can see, there are many instruments that provide a variety of styles and levels of difficulty, allowing everyone to find an instrument to their liking. Music has no age limit, and it's never too late to start. Choose an instrument that inspires you and immerse yourself in the world of music.