Whether it is a first instrument or a return to one you once played,
children, teenagers and adults alike will find the instrument that suits
them here. Making music trains the ear, concentration and perseverance —
but above all it brings joy and confidence, at any age. From keyboard
instruments through strings, plucked and electric instruments to woodwind
and percussion, the range is wide enough that there really is something
for everyone. Not sure what would suit you best? We are glad to advise you
and to help you choose the right instrument. To see which teacher takes
which subject, visit our Teachers page.
Keyboard instruments
On a keyboard instrument the whole of harmony lies visibly in front of you — ideal for grasping how music fits together and for taking melody and accompaniment in hand at the same time.
Piano
The classic choice at any age — the foundation for harmony, accompaniment and free playing. Because melody and accompaniment come together here, the piano often makes musical connections especially quick to grasp and offers a rewarding way into almost any style.
A versatile start, with sounds and rhythms from pop, rock and beyond. Built-in voices and auto-accompaniment make playing fun from early on and turn the keyboard into an easy route to the keys.
From folk song to contemporary repertoire — a full-sounding instrument you can carry with you. With melody and accompaniment housed in a single body, a single player can sound like a small orchestra — and can perform practically anywhere.
String instruments shape the note with the bow and so sing almost like the human voice — expressive, agile, and rewarding to develop over a lifetime.
Violin
Agile and expressive — and children can begin at an early age. Thanks to child-sized instruments, even the youngest find a violin that fits and develop a fine ear for clean intonation early on.
A warm, deep sound that has its place everywhere, from solo playing to ensemble work. Its range, close to that of the human voice, makes the cello especially songlike and adaptable — from a sustained solo piece to the supporting voice in an ensemble.
The foundation of every band and every orchestra, in classical music and jazz alike. As the lowest voice, the double bass provides both anchor and pulse; players are in demand everywhere, from the symphony orchestra to the jazz combo.
Acoustic around the campfire or amplified on stage: plucked and electric instruments are the direct route into pop, rock and folk — and they often bring that first sense of achievement quickly.
Guitar
Accompany acoustically or play as a soloist — a rewarding way into music. A handful of chords is enough to accompany songs, and anyone who wishes can work up to solo playing step by step.
Riffs, solos and sound: a direct line to rock, pop and blues. Amplifiers and effects let you shape a sound entirely your own — and you will soon find yourself right in the middle of band life.
Groove and foundation — the instrument that holds every band together. Sitting between the drums and the harmony, the bass supplies the pulse; its role is indispensable and audibly effective from early on.
Woodwind players create their sound with the breath, training conscious breathing along the way — their palette of colours reaches from the bright tone of the flute to the expressive oboe.
Flute
A clear, bright tone — popular in classical music, folk and contemporary ensembles. It is easy to carry and fits into many styles, from the classical concert to the folk band.
An ideal first step into music, suitable even for younger children. It is handy, quick to produce a sound on, and trains breathing and finger control — a sound basis for any instrument that follows.
The orchestra’s expressive voice, with an unmistakable sound. Its warm, faintly melancholy tone often carries the loveliest melodies and is impossible to imagine the orchestra without.
With percussion, rhythm takes centre stage — the foundation of all music. Here you can let off energy and develop precise timing at the same time.
Drum kit
Timing, energy and the sheer fun of rhythm — from the first beat to playing as part of a band. The drum kit lets you release energy while developing a reliable sense of time: the engine that drives every band.
Cajón, hand drums and more: experiencing rhythm, in a group as well as alone. Many of these instruments are quick to get started on and invite playing together — hands-on rhythm from the very first stroke.
This is where music begins playfully — and becomes a shared experience: first encounters with sound for the youngest, and the ensemble playing in which separate voices become a whole.
Early years music
Discovering rhythm, voice and movement through play — a first encounter with music. In a group, even the youngest delight in how much fun sound, singing and movement can be, entirely without pressure to perform.
Ensemble
Making music together: the moment practice turns into real music. Listening to one another and shaping a piece jointly is not only more enjoyable — it audibly advances your own playing.
Pop instrument carousel
Primary-school children get to know the drums, keyboard, electric guitar and electric bass — no previous experience needed. It gives them time to find out what suits them before settling on one instrument.