musical instruments...suggestions???

[gw84]

I've been thinking of learning to play an instrument. I don't really have any hobbies and I love music, so playing an instrument seems like a good choice. I'm basically starting new as I've only touched a guitar once (around age 10) and I've "played" the harmonica as a kid...didn't have a clue!!

I thought about trying drums but I would prefer to learn something that is a little more portable. Being a country music fan, I've always loved the sound and wanted to learn the steel guitar. The other instrument I've been thinking about is guitar: electric guitar. I had never been interested in guitar at all, until I heard Brad Paisley play one. I wish I knew how to play that good!!! I guess I would like to think of him as an idol.

I have no preference between the two instruments, and I'm split!!
I think the steel would be neat because there aren't as many people who play it...AFAIK. I spoke with someone who teaches guitar [both types] and he knows someone who has a decent steel for sale. The price is right and I could probably sell it if I decide it's not for me. I'm just wondering if anyone has any suggestions for someone who has never really tried to play an instrument before. I've been told it's hard and takes a lot of patience. I understand this and also know that I'm not going to be good for a while and maybe at all. anyone want to comment/encourage? thanks!

[2.2 Straight six]

Steel guitar owns. My friend plays, it's awesome.

[brady_381need72c10]

how about deering 5-string banjos thats what i play (somewhat)

[eversio11]

Percussion is actually the most portable instrument you can play. All you need is a surface that has two different kinds of acoustics, one for bass and high for a snare. Tap out a beat with your fingers for hours.

[LjasonL]

I play both regular guitar and steel guitar and I like regular guitar way more because I feel like I have a lot more freedom with it. The steel was the first instrument I ever got but I hardly even pick it up since I got my electric. I have been toying with it a bit lately though. Another thing is with the steel you have to sit there and set it in your lap or tabletop and play it right there. With a normal guitar you can stand up, walk around, and just generally get into it more. It's more fun for you and for the people listening to you.

[gw84]

Originally Posted by LjasonL

I play both regular guitar and steel guitar and I like regular guitar way more because I feel like I have a lot more freedom with it. The steel was the first instrument I ever got but I hardly even pick it up since I got my electric. I have been toying with it a bit lately though. Another thing is with the steel you have to sit there and set it in your lap or tabletop and play it right there. With a normal guitar you can stand up, walk around, and just generally get into it more. It's more fun for you and for the people listening to you.

That thought crossed my mind while I was trying to decide. I've been watching some videos of bands playing and I noticed that the person playing the steel was off by himself ...just playing. I'm sure he was having fun, but like you said: you're stationary. I had a lengthy talk with someone who plays and teaches both and he couldn't tell me that one was better than the other or easier to play. Although I've never really touched either instrument, my thought is that the electric would be a better idea because there are more people who know how to play it (AFAIK) that could help. I guess if I let this guy teach me, that wouldn't really matter though.

Another thing I forgot to mention in this, is that I am left-handed. This started another discussion regarding left-handed guitars. I was told that because so few people actually play a left handed guitar, that once I buy one, I'd pretty much be stuck with it...it would be harder to sell. However, since I've never played before, I would likely just try to do it like most people, right handed. What I was told was that no matter which instrument I choose and which way I choose to play it, it will still be uncomfortable at first and probably for awhile. Therefore I think I will do it right-handed.

I guess I've decided that electric is more for me than the steel. The only reason I chose those two to possibly play was because I've seen what can be done with them and I love the sound. Anyone know of any good songs to listen to that have solos (either instrument) that are worth listening to. I mostly like country music. thanks all

[beef_bourito]

i'm sure you know this but i just want to remind you that when you start you're going to suck. and i'm not talking about "oh he can play a bit of a song decently but he's not good" you're going to really suck. the problem that alot of people have with learning and instrument, especially when you're not a kid, is that they want to sound good right away and don't want to practice. if you want to sound good you're going to have to practice alot.

i remember when i was just starting out on the piano, i wasn't very good, but i was one of the lucky ones who learned really quickly. i learned to play Beethoven's Fur Elise in my second year, but i was practicing every day so that could have something to do with it. when i stopped practicing every day my progress slowed alot.

[TexasF355F1]

I bought an acoustic last year and have been "learning" how to play, but want to get lessons. Just no time.

Lately I've been feeling like I really want to learn how to play the drums. Maybe my quietness and reservations has had me hide a lot of pent up aggression to get out.

[raysoh8]

Tap out a beat with your fingers for hours.

Tapping your fingers all day won't make you play like this guy.. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a2PCxNG2R1w