Hello from our team at Presto Studios!
Our music school often gets asked:
“Which instrument should I start with?”
“My child is new to music—what’s a good first instrument?”
As a beginner student, finding the best musical instrument depends on your goals, interests, and budget.
Here’s a guide to the most beginner-friendly instruments we teach at our music school located in Changi.
#1 Best Musical Instrument for Beginners: Guitar or Ukulele
Why start with the guitar or ukulele?
Both the acoustic guitar and ukulele are portable, expressive, and well-suited for casual learners and aspiring performers alike. They’re great for solo practice, group jams, or singing along to your favourite hits.
Our guitar and ukulele courses are among the top music courses in demand.
What’s the difference between guitar and ukulele?
Size & Strings:
Ukuleles are smaller and lighter, with 4 soft nylon strings—perfect for young beginners. Acoustic guitars are larger and come with 6 steel strings, offering a fuller sound but requiring more finger strength.
Sound:
Ukuleles have a bright, happy tone suitable for light, melodic and rhythmically simple tunes. On the other hand, guitars offer a deeper, richer sound suitable for a wider range of musical styles.
Ease of Learning
The ukulele is often easier to start with due to its size and simple chord shapes. Guitars have a steeper learning curve but give more musical flexibility in the long run.
Best for
Ukulele is great for young kids and casual learners. Guitar is ideal for teens and adults who want to sing and play, write songs, or join a band.
Cost
Ukulele: ~$150–$300
Acoustic Guitar: ~$300–$500
Time to learn
You can pick up a few chords within a few weeks and start accompanying yourself or others quickly.
Ideal for learners who
Love singing and playing
Want to jam with friends or join a band
Are into pop, folk, rock, or blues
#2 Best Musical Instrument for Beginners: Piano – A Solid Foundation in Music
Why is piano a classic beginner instrument?
At Presto Studios, piano is one of the most popular choices.
The piano is often recommended as the best starting point for students who want to understand music deeply. Its visual layout (black and white keys) makes music theory easy to grasp, and the range of styles you can explore is endless.
Our piano lessons are highly structured ensuring that every student is given the opportunity to discover the joy of piano learning.
Cost
Beginner keyboard: ~$300
Weighted digital piano: ~$600
Time to learn
Steady, consistent progress. You’ll be playing familiar tunes within weeks.
Ideal for learners who
Want a solid foundation in music
Are interested in composing your own tunes
Love pop ballads, classical, or film soundtracks
#3 Best Musical Instrument for Beginners: Voice – Your Built-In Instrument
Why choose singing?
Our voice is a powerful tool of self-expression. Learning to sing not only builds musical ability but also boosts confidence, posture, and emotional awareness.
Our voice lessons are a favourite for all ages. No instrument to carry—just bring yourself!
Cost
Free to start; mic and speaker setup for ~$100 if desired.
Time to learn
With consistent vocal warmups and breathing techniques, students can start noticing improvements in pitch, range, and control within just a few weeks.
Just 15 minutes a day can make a difference in tone, control, and pitch.
Ideal for learners who
Express emotions through singing
Love pop, musical theatre, jazz, or classical
Want to build confidence and stage presence
So…What’s the Best Instrument to Start With?
At our music school, we always give this advice – the best instrument is the one that excites you or your child the most.
When you feel inspired to practise and play, progress comes naturally.
Here’s a quick comparison to help you choose:
| Instrument | Cost | Portability | Learning Curve | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ukulele | $150–$300 | ✅ Easy | Beginner-friendly | Young kids, casual learners |
| Guitar | $300–$500 | ✅ Easy | Moderate | Teens, pop/rock lovers |
| Piano | Varies according to model | ❌ Less portable | Steady and structured | Classical & theory-focused |
| Voice | Free | ✅ Built-in | Natural & expressive | All ages, emotional expression |
At Presto Studios, we believe in matching the instrument to the individual—not the other way around. Every student has a unique musical personality, and we’re here to help you discover it.
Music is a personal journey. Whether you’re drawn to the strum of a guitar, the elegance of piano, or the power of vocals, the key is to stay curious and consistent.
Visit Presto Studios in Changi
If you live at Changi, Loyang or Flora Drive, Presto Studios is right where you want to be. If you’re ready to begin music lessons or want expert advice, come and visit us!
We offer trial classes and personalised recommendations to help you (or your child) start on the right note.
Contact us today to book a trial or drop us a WhatsApp message to learn more!