My post on page one stands the test of time.
The one thing I would add, if someone did want to learn to play a musical instrument the one they should choose above all is the harmonica. A really good one can be had for only about $50. Small enough to fit in your pocket. Good enough, and with enough volume, to entertain a group of people. Yet with enough range to be played quietly.
Harmonica calls for all the same breath control and embouchure skills as other wind instruments. All the same vibrato, note bending, and dynamic shadings apply. It is a genuine musical instrument, with tremendous range. You can learn to play Oh Susannah within minutes, then spend a lifetime trying to master it. Which like all instruments you never will do. But unlike all the others, you will have a lot more fun in the process- and a lot less complaints from the neighbors.
The one thing I would add, if someone did want to learn to play a musical instrument the one they should choose above all is the harmonica. A really good one can be had for only about $50. Small enough to fit in your pocket. Good enough, and with enough volume, to entertain a group of people. Yet with enough range to be played quietly.
Harmonica calls for all the same breath control and embouchure skills as other wind instruments. All the same vibrato, note bending, and dynamic shadings apply. It is a genuine musical instrument, with tremendous range. You can learn to play Oh Susannah within minutes, then spend a lifetime trying to master it. Which like all instruments you never will do. But unlike all the others, you will have a lot more fun in the process- and a lot less complaints from the neighbors.