7 Best Musical Instruments for Beginners: A 2026 Guide for Utah Families

Starting a musical journey is an exciting decision, but the first question is always the same: 'What instrument should I learn?' This choice can feel overwhelming with so many options available. The key is finding an instrument that aligns with your personal goals, budget, and lifestyle. For families in areas like Bluffdale, Herriman, and Riverton, this decision sets the stage for a rewarding artistic adventure. This comprehensive guide is designed to help you confidently select one of the best musical instruments for beginners.

We’ve created a clear roadmap to help you or your child make an informed choice without the guesswork. Instead of just listing instruments, we dive deep into the practical details that matter most to new musicians. We will explore the pros and cons of seven popular beginner instruments, including piano, guitar, voice, and violin.

You will learn about the average startup costs, what to expect from the learning curve, and the space and maintenance requirements for each option. Whether you are a parent in Draper or Lehi researching for your child or an adult in Sandy ready to start a new hobby, this article provides the essential information you need. Our goal is to equip you with actionable insights to find the perfect instrument that resonates with your aspirations and sets you up for long-term success. Once you’ve found your match, the next step is finding the right instruction, and Encore Academy is here to guide you every step of the way. Let's find your first instrument and start on the right note.

1. Sweetwater

For families just starting their musical journey, Sweetwater stands out as a top-tier online retailer for finding the best musical instruments for beginners. The platform excels by combining a vast selection of gear with exceptional human support, making the daunting process of buying a first instrument significantly less stressful. Whether you're in Bluffdale or Herriman, their curated beginner sections for keyboards, guitars, and ukuleles simplify the initial search.

Sweetwater’s main advantage is its customer-centric approach. Instead of just selling you a box, they provide a support system that includes a dedicated "Sales Engineer" who can answer questions, offer personalized recommendations, and even help with setup after your instrument arrives. This service is invaluable for new learners who may not know the difference between a digital piano and a MIDI keyboard.

Why It Stands Out

What truly sets Sweetwater apart for beginners is its commitment to post-purchase satisfaction. Most products come with a free 2-year Total Confidence Coverage warranty, which is a huge benefit when investing in a new instrument. This extra protection covers unexpected issues and provides peace of mind, reducing the financial risk associated with a new hobby.

Key Takeaway: Sweetwater's combination of expert human guidance and an extended warranty makes it one of the safest and most supportive places to purchase a first instrument online.

Features & Practical Tips

• Human Support: Don't hesitate to call and speak with a Sales Engineer. They can help you compare models and find an instrument that fits your budget and goals, ensuring you understand the basics before you buy.
• Curated Selections: Use their "Beginner" filters and buying guides, especially for guitars and keyboards. These are tailored to new players and often bundle necessary accessories.
• Shipping & Returns: Shipping is free for most items, typically arriving in just a few business days. Be aware that if you return an item, the original shipping cost may be deducted from your refund.

While their selection of orchestral strings and band instruments is less extensive than their guitar and pro audio gear, their strengths in the most popular beginner categories are undeniable. Understanding the instrument itself is just as important as knowing where to buy it; to get started, you can explore the fundamentals by reading about music theory lessons for beginners .

2. Guitar Center

For those who prefer a hands-on approach, Guitar Center offers a powerful hybrid model for finding the best musical instruments for beginners. As the largest music retail chain in the U.S., it combines a massive online inventory with the invaluable benefit of physical stores. This means families in Riverton or Lehi can research beginner keyboard bundles online and then drive to a nearby location to let their child physically touch and try out the instrument before committing.

The primary advantage of Guitar Center is this blend of digital convenience and in-person experience. You can browse extensive selections of guitars, drums, keyboards, and even band and orchestra instruments from home, take advantage of online sales, and still have the option for an in-store tryout. This tangible interaction is crucial for ensuring a new instrument feels right, especially for younger learners who are just discovering their preferences.

Why It Stands Out

What makes Guitar Center a top choice for beginners is the ability to try before you buy and the convenience of in-store returns. Ordering an instrument online can feel like a gamble, but knowing you can return it to a local store without the hassle of repackaging and shipping provides significant peace of mind. They also frequently offer beginner-friendly bundles that include everything needed to start, like a guitar with an amp, strap, and picks, which removes the guesswork for parents.

Key Takeaway: Guitar Center is the ideal choice for beginners who want the vast selection of an online store combined with the confidence and convenience of a local, physical shop.

Features & Practical Tips

• Try In-Store: Use the website to identify a few top choices, then visit a physical store to compare them. Feeling the weight of a guitar or the action of piano keys can make all the difference.
• Leverage Bundles: Look for their "beginner packages" or "player packs." These are curated to offer the best value and ensure you have all the necessary accessories from day one.
• In-Store Returns: Take advantage of their in-store return policy for online orders. It’s often easier and faster than shipping an item back, especially for larger instruments. Be sure to check the return window, as it can vary from 30 to 45 days.

While some niche or high-end professional gear might be limited, their selection for new players is comprehensive and competitively priced. Once you have your instrument, the next step is learning to use it, which begins with understanding how to read sheet music for beginners .

3. Music & Arts

For parents of aspiring young musicians, especially those entering school band or orchestra programs, Music & Arts is an indispensable resource for finding the best musical instruments for beginners. The platform specializes in educator-approved instruments, making it the go-to choice for families in Herriman or Riverton who need to meet specific school requirements. Their primary strength lies in a robust rental program that lowers the barrier to entry for instruments like the flute, clarinet, violin, and cello.

Music & Arts simplifies what can be a confusing process by aligning its offerings with local school music programs. Parents can often find their child's specific school district and teacher recommendations directly on the site, ensuring they get the right instrument and accessories from the start. This focus on the student musician experience makes it a trusted partner for countless schools and families.

Why It Stands Out

What truly sets Music & Arts apart is its industry-leading rent-to-own program. This model is perfect for beginners because it minimizes financial risk. If a child decides not to continue with an instrument, the family isn't stuck with a costly purchase. Better yet, 100% of rental payments can be applied toward owning the instrument, offering a flexible path to ownership without a large upfront investment.

Key Takeaway: Music & Arts is the ideal choice for school-age beginners, offering a low-commitment, educator-approved rental program that ensures your child starts with the right gear.

Features & Practical Tips

• School Rentals: Use the website's rental portal to find your child's school. This will populate a list of teacher-approved instruments and required accessories like cleaning kits and music stands.
• Rental Equity: Remember that all your rental payments build equity. You can use this credit to purchase the instrument you're renting or even apply it to an intermediate-level instrument later on.
• Free Shipping & Returns: Take advantage of the free shipping for rentals, which can be sent to your home, a local store, or directly to your child’s school. Rentals also feature free and easy exchanges if an instrument needs service or your child decides to switch.

While its retail prices for outright purchases can sometimes be higher than competitors, the value and flexibility of its rental program for band and orchestra instruments are unmatched. Pairing a rented instrument with structured learning is the key to success, and you can build a strong foundation with violin lessons for beginners to complement your new rental.

4. Reverb

For aspiring musicians on a budget, Reverb is the largest online marketplace dedicated to new, used, and vintage musical instruments. It's an exceptional resource for finding the best musical instruments for beginners at a fraction of the retail price. The platform connects individual sellers, small music shops, and major retailers, creating a massive inventory where you can find everything from a gently used beginner keyboard in Draper to a discounted acoustic guitar from a shop in Lehi.

Reverb’s primary strength lies in its vast selection of pre-owned gear. This allows new learners to acquire a higher quality instrument than their budget might otherwise allow from a traditional retailer. The platform's user-friendly interface includes price history charts and detailed listings, empowering buyers to make informed decisions and find fair deals on quality starter instruments.

Why It Stands Out

What makes Reverb a safe and reliable choice for beginners is its Reverb Protection policy. When you complete your purchase and communicate through the platform, your order is covered against items that are lost, damaged in transit, or arrive not as described. This buyer-focused protection minimizes the inherent risks of shopping in a peer-to-peer marketplace, offering a level of security that is crucial when you're just starting out and may not know what to look for.

Key Takeaway: Reverb provides access to a massive used instrument market with significant savings potential, all backed by a strong buyer protection policy that makes it a secure choice for budget-conscious beginners.

Features & Practical Tips

• Filter Smartly: Use the "Condition" filter to search for items listed as "Mint" or "Excellent" to find nearly new instruments with minimal wear. This is a great way to save money without sacrificing quality.
• Check Seller Reviews: Always review a seller's feedback and rating before making a purchase. A history of positive reviews and fast shipping is a good indicator of a reliable transaction.
• Read Return Policies: Unlike a single retailer, return policies on Reverb are set by each individual seller. Read the listing carefully to understand your options if the instrument isn't the right fit.

While the experience isn't as turnkey as a dedicated retailer-since condition and setup vary by seller-the savings and selection are unmatched. Once you've found your instrument, the next step is learning how to play it. To ensure you start with a solid foundation, consider enrolling in guitar lessons for beginners to build proper technique from day one.

5. Amazon (Musical Instruments)

For sheer convenience and an almost limitless selection, Amazon's Musical Instruments storefront is a go-to marketplace for families looking to find the best musical instruments for beginners. The platform excels at providing rapid access to a massive inventory of keyboards, ukuleles, guitars, and essential practice accessories. For a family in Draper or Sandy needing a last-minute instrument for a new class, Amazon’s fast Prime shipping is often unbeatable.

Amazon's primary strength lies in its convenience and price comparison. You can easily sort through dozens of beginner-friendly brands, compare prices from multiple sellers, and read extensive customer reviews and Q&A sections. This user-generated feedback is incredibly helpful for gauging the real-world quality of an instrument before committing to a purchase.

Why It Stands Out

What truly sets Amazon apart for beginners is its unmatched speed and the ease of its centralized returns process. If an instrument arrives and isn't quite right, the familiar and straightforward return system (typically around 30 days for most items) simplifies exchanges and refunds. This reduces the risk of being stuck with a low-quality instrument, which is a common concern when buying budget-friendly gear online.

Key Takeaway: Amazon is the ideal choice for price-conscious shoppers who prioritize fast delivery, extensive user reviews, and a hassle-free return policy for their first instrument purchase.

Features & Practical Tips

• Filter Smartly: Use the filters for "4 Stars & Up" and "Prime" to narrow your search to higher-rated products with fast, reliable shipping. Pay close attention to the number of reviews, not just the star rating.
• Read the Q&A: The "Customer questions & answers" section is a goldmine for specific details. You can often find answers about whether an instrument comes ready to play or if it requires professional setup.
• Check Seller Info: For third-party sellers, always check their return policy and recent ratings. While Amazon's A-to-z Guarantee offers protection, buying directly from "Shipped by Amazon" provides the most consistent experience.

While Amazon offers incredible variety, the quality and factory setup of low-cost instrument bundles can vary significantly. It is crucial to read reviews carefully to avoid disappointment. Knowing what to look for is key, and understanding what age to start music lessons can also help guide your instrument choice.

6. Yamaha Music USA (shop.usa.yamaha.com)

For those who prefer to buy directly from a trusted manufacturer, Yamaha Music USA offers a streamlined and reliable experience for finding the best musical instruments for beginners. The official online store cuts through the clutter of overwhelming options by focusing on brand-specific, educator-recommended models. This direct-from-source approach ensures you are getting an authentic, high-quality instrument with a full manufacturer warranty, a key consideration for families in communities like Draper and Riverton.

Yamaha's reputation for consistency makes their beginner instruments, such as the PSR-E series keyboards and GigMaker acoustic guitar packs, perennial favorites in music classrooms. The website provides clear, detailed specifications for each product, helping new buyers understand exactly what they are getting. This transparency removes the guesswork often associated with buying a first instrument from a multi-brand retailer.

Why It Stands Out

What truly sets the official Yamaha store apart is its focus on curated beginner solutions. Instead of just selling an instrument, they offer comprehensive packages like the GigMaker series, which bundles a quality guitar with essential accessories like a gig bag, tuner, strap, and picks. This all-in-one approach simplifies the shopping process and guarantees that a new student has everything they need to start playing right away.

Key Takeaway: Buying directly from Yamaha ensures consistent quality, access to models frequently recommended by music teachers, and straightforward warranty support, making it a safe bet for a beginner's first instrument.

Features & Practical Tips

• Beginner Packages: Look for their bundled kits. The PSR-E series keyboards often include lesson functions, and the GigMaker guitar packs provide excellent value for a new player.
• Check Specifications: Use the detailed product pages to compare features. This is especially helpful for digital pianos, where you can easily compare key count, touch sensitivity, and included sounds.
• Warranty and Support: Purchasing directly gives you immediate access to Yamaha's customer support and manufacturer warranty, providing peace of mind for your investment.

While the selection is limited to the Yamaha brand and you may not find the deep discounts of larger retailers, the trade-off is guaranteed quality and reliability. Knowing the instrument is well-made is crucial, especially for young learners; understanding the best age to start piano lessons can help you make an informed decision on timing.

7. Shar Music

For families in Riverton or Lehi looking to start their child in a school orchestra, Shar Music is an indispensable resource for finding the best musical instruments for beginners, specifically in the strings category. As a string-instrument specialist, they offer a highly curated experience for students of the violin, viola, cello, and bass. Instead of navigating a massive, generalized inventory, you get access to teacher-approved brands and outfits designed for learning.

Shar Music's deep expertise ensures that every beginner instrument is properly set up and ready to play right out of the box. This is a critical detail often overlooked by big-box retailers, as a poorly configured instrument can hinder a new student's progress and cause frustration. Their focus on rentals and trade-ins also acknowledges that young musicians grow, making it a practical and cost-effective choice for long-term study.

Why It Stands Out

What truly distinguishes Shar Music is its flexible ownership and trial programs tailored to string students. Their SharWay and rePLAY rent-to-own programs (with rentals starting from just $9.99/month for a violin) allow families to start with a minimal investment while building equity toward owning the instrument. Furthermore, their In-Home Trial program lets you test instruments and bows at home for 10 days, providing confidence that you’ve made the right choice before committing.

Key Takeaway: Shar Music's string-specific expertise, flexible rent-to-own options, and home trial programs eliminate the guesswork and financial risk of starting a new string instrument.

Features & Practical Tips

• Rent-to-Own: Explore the rePLAY (used) and SharWay (new) rental programs. They are an excellent low-cost entry point and often the smartest financial decision for growing students who will need to size up.
• In-Home Trials: Take advantage of the 10-day trial for instruments and bows. This is especially useful for intermediate players looking to upgrade, but it’s also great for beginners who want to feel the instrument first.
• Teacher-Approved Outfits: Stick to their recommended beginner outfits. These bundles include a case, bow, and rosin, ensuring you have all the properly-sized, essential accessories from day one.

While Shar Music is the top choice for orchestral strings, it isn't a one-stop shop for band or rock instruments. However, for anyone starting their string journey, their specialized service is unmatched. To properly prepare for the nuances of a string instrument, you can find valuable information by reading about cello lessons for beginners .

Beginner Musical Instruments: 7-Retailer Comparison

Final Thoughts

Embarking on a musical journey is an exciting decision, and choosing your first instrument is the foundational step that shapes your entire experience. As we've explored, the path to finding the best musical instruments for beginners isn't about identifying one universally "perfect" choice. Instead, it's about finding the instrument that resonates with your personal goals, lifestyle, and passion. The piano offers a direct and visual representation of music theory, while the guitar provides portability and a central role in popular music. The violin demands discipline but rewards with profound emotional expression, and the ukulele delivers instant gratification with its cheerful, accessible chords.

The key is to move beyond the instrument itself and consider the practicalities of your new pursuit. Think about your available practice space. Do you have a dedicated room where a digital piano can live, or do you need something compact like a flute or clarinet that can be easily stored? Your budget also plays a critical role, not just for the initial purchase but for ongoing maintenance, accessories, and, most importantly, quality instruction.

Key Takeaways for Your Musical Journey

Before you make your final decision, let's distill our findings into a few core principles. Reflecting on these points will bring clarity and confidence to your choice, whether you're a parent in Herriman guiding your child or an adult in Draper finally pursuing a lifelong dream.

• Passion Over Perception: Don't choose an instrument because it seems "easy" or "prestigious." The best motivator for consistent practice is a genuine love for the sound and style of music the instrument produces. If you adore the deep, resonant tones of a cello, you'll be more driven to overcome its steep learning curve.
• Logistics are Crucial: Your daily reality matters. Consider the noise level (will a drum kit work in your apartment?), the physical demands (is the instrument comfortable for your body size?), and the time commitment required. An honest assessment of these factors prevents frustration down the road.
• The Teacher is as Important as the Instrument: A great instrument in the hands of a beginner is just a tool. A supportive, knowledgeable instructor is the guide who turns that tool into a source of artistic expression. The right teacher transforms challenges into learning opportunities and keeps you inspired when you hit a plateau.

Your Actionable Next Steps

Feeling inspired? Here’s how to channel that energy into a concrete plan.

Listen Actively: Spend the next week listening intently to music. Pay attention to the specific instruments. Which sounds give you goosebumps? Which melodies do you find yourself humming? Make a list.

Seek Hands-On Experience: Visit a local music store or, even better, schedule a trial lesson. There is no substitute for holding a guitar, sitting at a piano, or drawing a bow across a violin's strings. For families in Bluffdale, Lehi, or Sandy, this can be a fun and informative weekend outing.

Define Your "Why": Write down what you hope to achieve. Is it to play your favorite pop songs on the ukulele? Join a community orchestra with your viola? Or accompany your own singing on the piano? A clear goal is your north star.

Ultimately, learning music is not a race. It is a deeply personal and rewarding process of discovery, discipline, and joy. The "best" instrument is the one that you will pick up day after day, not out of obligation, but out of a genuine desire to create and connect. Embrace the initial fumbles, celebrate the small victories, and trust that with consistent effort and the right support system, you are at the beginning of a wonderful adventure.

Now that you have the knowledge to choose the perfect instrument, the next step is finding the right guidance to bring your musical aspirations to life. At Encore Academy for the Performing Arts, we provide expert, personalized instruction for many of the instruments discussed, helping students from Bluffdale, Riverton, and surrounding communities build a strong and joyful musical foundation. Visit us at Encore Academy for the Performing Arts to learn about our programs and schedule a trial lesson today