Choosing a first instrument for a six-year-old

At six, the instrument matters less than the size, the noise, and whether the child can carry it.

Piano

The easiest start: no tuning by ear, both hands visible, immediate sound. It needs space and tolerant neighbours, and a digital piano with weighted keys is fine for the first two years.

Violin

Rewarding and slow. Expect three months of short bows and open strings before anything recognisable. Get a properly sized instrument (1/4 or 1/2 at that age) and a teacher who does not rush posture.

Guitar

Small hands struggle with a full-size guitar. A 3/4 classical with nylon strings is the sane choice; steel strings hurt, and pain is a bad first lesson.

What to ignore

Talent tests, “musical” siblings, and the neighbour whose child plays Chopin at seven. The only reliable predictor is whether the child volunteers to play again.