St. John’s Parents Guide: Choosing the Right Instrument for Your Child
Music lessons can be one of the most rewarding activities for a child — helping to build confidence, patience, and creative thinking. At Shine Music in St. John’s, we believe that finding the right instrument is the first step to a fun, lasting musical journey. This guide will help you understand how to choose the best instrument for your child, based on their age, personality, and interests.
What’s the Best Age to Start Music Lessons?
Every child is different, but many are ready to start lessons as young as age 4 or 5. At this age, children begin developing the motor skills and attention spans needed for music. That said, the best time to start is when your child shows genuine curiosity. Whether they’re singing around the house or tapping out rhythms on the table — these are signs they might be ready.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Instrument
Size & Age
Smaller children may struggle with full-size guitars or drum kits. Instruments like ukulele or piano (which don’t require finger strength to start) are often great entry points.
Personality & Learning Style
Shy children may feel more comfortable behind a drum set, while outgoing kids may love singing or performing on piano. Some kids are hands-on learners; others prefer structure. Matching their style to the instrument can make all the difference.
Budget & Accessibility
It’s important to consider the cost of the instrument and whether you can practice at home. Piano and voice are great because no gear is required beyond a basic keyboard or your own voice.
Most Popular Instruments for Kids in St. John’s
🎸 Guitar
A classic choice for kids who love rock, pop, or songwriting. We offer both acoustic and electric options for beginners.
🎹 Piano
Great for understanding music theory and melody. Ideal for beginners of all ages, and one of the easiest instruments to start learning right away.
🥁 Drums
Perfect for high-energy kids who love rhythm. Drums build coordination and are often a big hit with younger students.
🎤 Voice
Your child’s voice is a built-in instrument! Voice lessons help with confidence, pitch, and performance skills, even for beginners.
Try a Trial Lesson at Shine Music in St. John’s
At Shine, we offer free trial lessons to help kids discover the instrument that suits them best. Our studio is adaptive and student-led — we call this process “instrument gravitation.” During the trial, students are invited to explore different lesson rooms and see what they naturally gravitate toward. It’s not uncommon for a child’s instrument of choice to change — and that’s encouraged! We follow their lead, getting to know them as individuals and building a music experience tailored just for them.
Ready to Get Started?
Choosing the right instrument is just the beginning. Book a free consultation or trial lesson today at Shine Music in St. John’s. Let’s help your child discover their passion and start a journey that inspires confidence, creativity, and joy.