For those who want to form a band but can't decide on an instrument: A complete guide to choosing an instrument based on personality and lifestyle.

1. For those of you who want to be in a band but don't know what instrument to play.

We've published over 90 articles on our blog so far, but the vast majority of them were read by people who already have an instrument in mind. How to find a guitarist when you can't find one, how to write a job posting for a bassist, how to find the right vocalist—all of these are important pieces of information, but the common thread is the premise that "you can already play some instrument."

However, I'm sure there are quite a few people who actually think this way: "I want to be in a band. The thought of myself playing in a live music venue excites me. But, to begin with, I don't know what instrument to start with." When they go to a music store, there are too many types to decide, when they ask friends for advice they only get vague answers like, "Just play whatever instrument you like," and when they search on YouTube, the information is fragmented and not well-organized—I think there are more people than I imagine who are stuck in this situation and unable to take that first step.

This article is written for those of you who are either completely new to musical instruments or just starting out. While our previous article, " What Beginners in Bands Should Do in Their First Month, " covered the entire roadmap from choosing an instrument to your first studio session, this time we'll focus specifically on the often-confusing aspect of "choosing an instrument." We'll explain, as concretely as possible, how to approach this from three perspectives—personality, physique, and lifestyle—the characteristics of each of the five main instruments, their realistic costs and timelines, and the trends in parts that are truly needed in band settings.

I want to make it clear from the outset that this article doesn't offer a simple answer like, "Choosing this instrument is definitely the right choice." There's no single right answer when it comes to choosing an instrument. However, whether you choose an instrument based on a vague feeling or not will greatly affect how easily you can stick with it and how easily you can find your place in a band. I hope this article can serve as a map to help you do just that.

2. Three key factors to consider before choosing an instrument: personality, physical condition, and lifestyle

When choosing an instrument, many people make their decision based on intuitive reasons such as "it looks cool" or "my favorite artist plays it," and there's nothing wrong with that. Admiration can certainly be a great motivator to continue practicing. However, if you take a moment to consider the following three axes in addition to your intuition, you'll be more likely to arrive at a choice that's easier to stick with and more valuable in a band.

Axis 1: Personality

What role do you want to play in a band? Are you the type who wants to express your emotions openly in the center of the stage, or do you prefer to be behind the scenes, supporting the rhythm and structure? Are you the type who doesn't mind diligent, repetitive practice, or do you prefer to rely on quick reflexes and decisiveness? I believe this "personality orientation" is the most important axis to consider first, as the qualities required differ considerably depending on which instrument you choose.

Axis 2: physique/physical conditions

The physical requirements for playing an instrument vary surprisingly. Playing drums is almost a full-body workout, requiring endurance to use your arms and legs simultaneously. For guitar and bass, finger strength and hand size affect how easily you can play chords, and because the bass has thicker strings with higher tension, you need to get used to using your finger strength. Keyboards don't require any special physical strength, but having larger hands has the advantage of making it easier to play a wider range of notes. For vocals, vocal range, lung capacity, and throat endurance are the foundation. It's a matter of "suitability" rather than "can do" or "cannot do," but being honest about your own physical capabilities will help you avoid stumbling in the early stages of practice.

Axis 3: Lifestyle, Budget, and Practice Time

Often overlooked, this might actually be the most realistic and important factor. Consider whether you have a suitable environment at home to make noise (apartment or house, soundproofing measures in place), how much practice time you can dedicate to weekdays, how much you're willing to spend on initial investment, and whether the portability of the instrument fits your lifestyle. For example, it's difficult to practice with a full drum set at home, making it practically a necessity to go to a practice studio, but with guitars and keyboards, you can practice at home even late at night by plugging in headphones. By considering the realities of band activities and imagining the total burden, including not only the cost of the instrument itself but also studio fees and maintenance costs, you'll be less likely to be disappointed later by the gap between your expectations and the reality that it's harder to continue.

Can you make noise at home? 3-step self-check

Among the three key aspects, "home practice environment" is particularly easy to overlook. Try checking your situation in the following three steps.

• Level 1: Environment where making unsounding noise is not a problem (detached house, soundproof room, etc.) : Acoustic drums or guitars and basses played through amplifiers are acceptable, and almost any instrument can be used as long as the time of day is taken into consideration.
• Level 2: Environments where some noise is acceptable but consideration is needed (e.g., apartment, daytime only) : Guitar and bass can be handled by lowering the amplifier volume or using a headphone amplifier. There are also vocal practice methods that allow for reduced volume.
• Level 3: Environments where you can barely make any noise (such as apartment buildings without soundproofing) : Electronic drums, silent guitars, and keyboards/electronic pianos that allow you to check the sound with headphones are realistic options. For serious drum and vocal practice, a practice studio will inevitably be the main venue.

Depending on your skill level, the ability to progress with the same instrument through "primarily home practice" or "requiring studio visits" can vary greatly. Simply determining this beforehand can significantly reduce the risk of regretting your purchase later because you "can't practice as much as you thought."

3. [Personality Type Diagnosis] Which instrument is best suited for you?

This is merely a general guideline, not an absolute diagnosis, but I've compiled a list of instrument tendencies that are well-suited to different personality types. It's perfectly fine if multiple categories apply to you.

This assessment is merely a starting point. There are also paths for people who already have musical instrument experience to join a band and utilize that experience. For example, as introduced in the complete guide on how to find violin and string players when you can't find any , there are increasing cases of string players with a classical background adding a new color to the band's composition. You can start by considering either personality type or musical experience. The important thing is to find a place where you can utilize your strengths without denying your own potential.

Which part of the job can someone with an introverted personality continue doing without difficulty?

I often receive inquiries from introverted people who say, "I'm not good at being in front of people, but I'd like to be in a band." To put it simply, being introverted is not a handicap at all when it comes to band activities. You just need to choose a role that allows you to concentrate on the performance itself rather than a prominent role in the center of the stage. Specifically, bass and keyboard (backing) are often located at the back or on the sides from the audience's perspective, so they are parts that don't often have the audience's attention focused on them. Drums are also located at the back of the stage, and while playing, you concentrate on the movement of your hands and feet, so you don't need to make eye contact with people all the time. On the other hand, vocals and lead guitar are roles that put you at the center of the stage, both physically and psychologically, so introverted people tend to find the initial hurdle a little high. Of course, the feeling of "I'm introverted, but I want to be a vocalist" should be respected, and there's no need to limit your possibilities based solely on your personality, but if you're at the stage where you want to "start without feeling overwhelmed," trying a part at the back is one realistic option.

Compare by difficulty level | Quick reference chart of ★1-5

Along with personality types, another thing people are probably curious about is the perceived difficulty level—how challenging it actually is. While this is just a general guideline, I've tried to categorize the initial hurdles using a star rating system.

There's absolutely no need to give up just because you have a high star rating. In fact, the more challenging the initial hurdle, such as drums or vocals, the more valuable you tend to become to the band once you overcome it.

4. Complete Guide to Each Instrument ① Guitar | The Main Player in Expression, But Getting "Chosen" Isn't Easy

An electric guitar is an instrument that converts the vibrations of its strings into electrical signals using a pickup, which are then amplified by an amplifier to produce sound. Its appeal lies in its versatility, allowing for a wide range of expression, from playing flashy lead solos to providing backing chords that support the entire band.

The guitar is often the first instrument chosen when someone decides they want to start a band. Because there are so many people starting out, it tends to be relatively easy to get a decent number of applicants when you put out a call for band members. However, as explained in our complete guide to finding a guitarist when you can't find one, finding a guitarist who fits a specific musical style and skill level is by no means easy. The fact that so many people are starting out also means that there are many bands looking for guitarists. To avoid getting lost in the crowd, clearly defining your own playing style and preferred genres is the quickest way to find your place as a guitarist.

Differences in Beginner Sets by Price Range: ¥20,000, ¥30,000, and ¥40,000

Even among beginner electric guitar sets, trends vary depending on the price range. This is not a recommendation or guarantee of any specific product, but rather a summary of general trends.

If it's your first guitar, there's no need to force yourself to choose a high-priced model. A more realistic approach is to start with a set in the 20,000 to 30,000 yen range to build a solid foundation, and then, once you're sure you'll stick with it, consider upgrading to a guitar that better suits your preferences.

Tomoyasu Hotei , one of Japan's leading guitarists, has been active not only as a guitarist but also as a singer-songwriter and music producer, from his time with BOØWY to the present day. The guitar's characteristic of being "the main focus of expression" has led to a wide range of possibilities for developing solo activities, songwriting, and production work. For those who want to broaden their range of expression beyond their role in a band, the guitar can be said to be an instrument that can be enjoyed for a long time.

The guitar is especially recommended for people like these: those who want to unleash their emotions in solos, those who want to create a band atmosphere with riffs and arpeggios, and those who want to complete their music alone by singing and playing. Conversely, because there are so many competitors, if you choose the guitar "just because" without a clear idea of what kind of sound you want to produce, you're likely to get lost in the crowd.

5. Complete Guide to Each Instrument ② Bass | The unsung hero, but actually in high demand

The electric bass is a stringed instrument that produces low-frequency sounds by sending electrical signals to an amplifier. It's the unsung hero of a band, creating the rhythmic foundation in coordination with the drums and supporting the harmony with the root notes of chords.

As mentioned in our article on why it's difficult to find a bassist and how to solve this problem , the bass is one of the most difficult parts to recruit for a band. One reason for this is that fewer people start out wanting to play the bass compared to guitar or drums. Conversely, if you have even a little interest in the bass, you have a high chance of becoming a valuable asset to many bands. Taking that first step towards learning the bass may be worth more than you imagine.

To understand the depth of the bass guitar, it's helpful to look at the careers of real-life bassists. Flea of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, who effortlessly moves from funk slap techniques to punk and hard rock, is considered one of the greatest bassists of all time. In Japan, there are also examples like Seiji Kameda , bassist for the rock band Tokyo Jihen, who has arranged and produced numerous hit songs, and who has built a career as a producer centered around the bass guitar. Their achievements demonstrate that the position of "unsung hero" is by no means a low-profile role.

If you're unsure how to write a self-introduction for a bassist with limited experience, the following approach can be helpful: "I've been playing bass for X months, and I can play basic accompaniments centered around root notes. I'm still practicing more complex phrases, but I especially want to focus on coordinating rhythms with the drummer. If there's a band that welcomes beginners, I'd love to join." — For aspiring bassists, conveying an awareness of being part of the rhythm section is particularly effective, rather than demonstrating perfect technique.

Should I start with guitar or bass?

The question, "Should I get a guitar or a bass?" is a frequent topic I encounter both in music stores and in Membo's recruitment posts. While both are stringed instruments, their roles within a band are completely different. To help you make your decision, let's compare them directly.

In conclusion, the best way to choose a bass guitar is to consider whether you want to be the main focus of the performance or provide the rhythmic foundation. If you still can't decide, choosing based on how often the band will want you to play is also a reasonable approach. As mentioned earlier, the bass is a chronically under-supplied instrument, so it's definitely worth trying if you have even the slightest interest.

6. Complete Guide to Each Instrument ③ Drums | The King of Percussion Instruments You Can Start Playing Without Buying One

A drum set is a percussion kit consisting of various sizes of drums and cymbals arranged for a single player to play. It requires a unique physical sense, as it involves simultaneously manipulating both hands and feet with different movements, but it also plays a crucial role in controlling the overall rhythm of the band.

Drums occupy a unique position among musical instruments. Is there really a shortage of drummers? — As explained in "The Reality of Recruiting Members by Instrument and How to Find Them ," drums are a prime example of an instrument where it's difficult to find people even when recruiting. One reason for this is the physical constraint that it's not an instrument that you can easily practice making noise with at home. However, on the other hand, this also means that you don't need to buy a full set yourself, and you can significantly reduce initial investment by using the set provided at a practice studio . For information on studio conditions nationwide, please also refer to "How to Choose a Band Practice Studio ." For people who enjoy physical activity, drums may be a cost-effective option that combines ease of starting with high demand.

Ginger Baker , the drummer for the rock band Cream, is hailed as "rock's first superstar drummer" and is known as a pioneer who brought the idioms of jazz and world music into rock. Drummers like him, who bring rhythmic sensibilities from other genres to a band, are valuable assets, both then and now. If you have experience with the rhythms of jazz, Latin, or folk music, that can be a valuable asset in a band.

Other parts besides the drum set that can be played while moving your body.

For those who want to release energy through physical activity but find a full drum set impractical for home practice or transport, there are percussion options available. These instruments are not as large-scale as a drum set, yet still allow you to experience the feeling of creating rhythm using your whole body.

• Cajon : A box-shaped percussion instrument that can produce sounds similar to a kick and snare drum simply by sitting and hitting it with your hands. It takes up less space than a full drum set and is well-suited for singer-songwriters and acoustic bands.
• Congas and Bongos : Drums that excel at Latin rhythms. Because they are played using the entire palm, they offer a different way of using your body to experience the rhythm compared to drums.
• Tambourine Shaker : A percussion instrument that allows you to create rhythms by shaking your body. It is often used by members who also sing, and it easily adds dynamism to the stage performance.
• Cowbell/Woodblock : A small percussion instrument used to add accents at key points in a song. Often used as part of a drum set, but can also be used on its own to create rhythmic expression using the body.

While these instruments are rarely advertised as standalone parts, they are often included in bands in conjunction with chorus or vocals. For those who want to be involved in rhythmic activities but find the preparation as extensive as drumming difficult, starting with these lighter percussion instruments is a practical option.

7. Complete Guide to Each Instrument ④ Keyboard | Many experienced players, but not enough in the field

A keyboard is a general term for keyboard instruments used in popular music. It plays a role in enriching the entire ensemble by selecting notes according to the chord progression and sometimes adding improvisational arrangements.

According to a 2024 survey conducted by Cross Marketing , 54.1% of men and women aged 20-69 have experience playing a musical instrument, with "piano (including digital piano)" being the most common instrument at 31.7%. Despite such a large number of piano players, finding a keyboardist for a band is surprisingly difficult—a reality discussed in detail in our article on the difficulties of recruiting and finding keyboardists . The reason is that there is a much larger gap than one might imagine between "playing according to sheet music" and "being given only a chord progression and playing freely within a band." For a roadmap on bridging this gap through self-study, please refer to our article "How to Become a Keyboardist | Self-Study Roadmap and How to Determine a Band-Ready Level," which explains this in detail.

Common stumbling blocks for piano players transitioning to band keyboards.

People with experience in classical piano or electronic organ often encounter unique stumbling blocks when trying to play keyboard in a band. Knowing these in advance can significantly reduce the number of confusing situations.

• Unfamiliar with improvising using chord names : Even with extensive training in playing sheet music, many people have little experience playing freely when given only chord names like "C→Am→F→G". Starting by practicing memorizing and playing simple chord progressions by ear will help bridge the gap.
• The ability to match volume and tone to the band : While you can control the dynamics at your own pace when playing solo piano, in a band setting you need to adjust the tone and volume so that you don't get drowned out by the guitar and drums. Choosing the right synthesizer sounds is also an important skill.
• Communication during a jam session : You might initially be confused by the "non-verbal communication" involved in things like matching the song's progression with glances and eye contact, or signaling the next development with your fingers. It's a good idea to get used to jam sessions and similar settings as early as possible.
• The ability to "not overplay" : In piano solos, it's often thought that the more notes you play, the better, but in a band setting, you often need to make the decision to "deliberately not play" certain notes to suit the other instruments.

Which is better for beginners, bass or keyboard?

For people with a personality type that prefers to be on the supporting side, the choice between starting with bass or keyboard is often the most difficult one. Both play a behind-the-scenes role, but their characteristics are quite different.

If you have absolutely no experience with musical instruments, the bass is an easier first step, while if you already have experience with piano or electronic organ, switching to keyboards is a more direct route. In both cases, the key is to transition to a level of playing that is acceptable in a band, and if you can overcome that hurdle, you can become a highly sought-after instrument in either part.

8. Complete Guide by Instrument ⑤ Vocals | No instrument is needed, but "suited" people are rare.

Vocals are the only part of the five instruments that doesn't require purchasing an instrument. All you need is your own voice, which makes it seem like a low barrier to entry. However, in reality, it's one of the most difficult parts to find the right person for.

As explained in our tips for finding a vocalist , finding a vocalist presents a unique challenge: "We have enough people, but we can't find the right person." Unlike instrumental skills, vocalists require compatibility in areas that are difficult to quantify, such as voice quality, vocal range, and expressive direction. That's why, if you have even the slightest interest in singing in front of others, it's worth taking that first step without hesitation. Bands are constantly searching for the "perfect singer" more than you might think.

When writing a self-introduction for an aspiring vocalist, it's more effective to clearly communicate your musical direction than to simply express technical confidence. For example, "I've been self-taught in vocals for about X years. I mainly sing rock and pop songs, and my vocal range is strong in the mid-range. I'm also interested in chorus work, so I aspire to play in a band with harmonies." By conveying your preferred genre, vocal range, and future aspirations together, it becomes easier for bands to envision your compatibility with them.

5-Part Quick Reference Chart | Comparison of Initial Costs, Learning Time, and Demand

Here's a table summarizing the key features of the five instruments we've looked at so far. If you're having trouble choosing an instrument, refer back to this table for comparison.

These numbers are merely guidelines and can vary greatly depending on practice time and individual differences. Nevertheless, when you compare them side by side like this, you can see that there is an inverse relationship between "ease of practicing at home" and "high demand in bands." Guitars and keyboards are easy to start because you can practice them casually at home, but there is also a lot of competition. Drums and bass, on the other hand, require a specific practice environment, so the barrier to entry is higher, and therefore the demand from bands tends to be higher.

9. Tendencies of parts that tend to be chronically lacking in bands

We've looked at five instruments so far, and based on our experience reviewing band member recruitment information across the country, the Membo editorial team has noticed that the way shortages occur differs for each instrument.

While there are no official statistics that accurately quantify this trend, our editorial team feels that the above assessment is not far off the mark, based on the patterns of recruitment postings and response trends. In other words, if you have even a slight interest in any of the four parts other than guitar, you have a high chance of becoming a rare and sought-after member in many bands.

Specifically, as mentioned in our complete guides on how to find a bassist/drummer and how to find a vocalist, our Membo editorial team's continuous observation of recruitment information nationwide has revealed that the entry point for bass and drummers is consistently narrow, making it difficult to attract applicants even when recruitment is advertised. Conversely, while there are many applicants for guitar and vocals, the difficulty lies in narrowing down the candidates to those who match the desired musical style, skill level, and vocal quality. This asymmetrical situation continues. Many experienced band members share the understanding that, by its very nature, there tends to be a shortage of bassists and drummers in a band.

What's interesting is that the reasons for the shortage are completely different for each instrument. For bass and drums, the problem stems from the narrow entry point—"few people start playing in the first place"—but for keyboards, the challenge lies in the intermediate stage—"many people start playing, but there's a hurdle in adapting to band-oriented playing"—and for vocals, it's a completely different kind of difficulty—"a compatibility issue that's difficult to quantify." In other words, the methods for resolving the shortage also differ for each instrument. The editorial team believes that the key to solving the problem for bass and drums is "increasing the number of people starting," for keyboards it's "developing a self-study roadmap," and for vocals it's "creating self-promotional strategies that visualize compatibility." The sample self-promotional statements and links to self-study roadmaps introduced in each section of this article were prepared with these key points in mind.

10. The option of being a "multi-instrumentalist" who plays multiple instruments.

Instead of sticking to just one instrument, you can also choose to be a "multi-instrumentalist," playing multiple instruments. Playing bass while also handling backing vocals, switching between keyboard and guitar depending on the song, or using both drums and percussion—these combinations not only broaden the range of the band's arrangements but also expand your own "uses."

As mentioned in "Let's Create Original Songs with a Band!" , the necessary instrumentation often changes depending on the song when arranging original music. You might want keyboard pad sounds for one song, but for another, you might want a sound closer to acoustic guitar and vocals—in such cases, having a member who can play multiple instruments greatly expands the range of expression for the entire band. Combining classical instrument experience with rock or pop bands, like the violin and string players already introduced, is also a valid form of multi-instrumentalism.

Another advantage of being a multi-instrumentalist is that it can contribute to the band's longevity. As explained in the section on how to deal with a band member suddenly leaving , member departures are not uncommon. In such situations, having a member who can play multiple instruments can temporarily fill the gap and also function as a "bridge" until a new member is found. Mastering one instrument from the start is a good choice, but if you have the capacity, I recommend trying a second instrument as well. Attending events like jam sessions can easily provide opportunities to try out instruments you wouldn't normally play.

For those looking to try a second instrument, the following order of combinations is recommended. First, choose a "main instrument" that aligns with the personality type you identified in Axis 1, and focus on it until you have a decent grasp of it. Next, choose a secondary instrument that complements your main instrument—for example, if you play bass, try vocals or chorus; if you play keyboard, try acoustic guitar and singing; if you play drums, try percussion. Trying to start both at the same time from the beginning often results in both being half-finished. It's better to solidify the foundation of the first instrument before moving on to the second, as this will ultimately lead to steady improvement in both.

Ways to get involved in band and music activities without playing an instrument

Up until now, we've been discussing this assuming you've chosen an instrument, but there's also a path for those who think, "Playing an instrument just doesn't seem right for me, but I still want to be involved in bands and live performances." There's a definite place for you in a band setting, even in roles other than playing an instrument.

• DJ : The role of a DJ, which involves mixing and selecting existing songs, has opportunities to shine at band joint events and live performances in collaboration with clubs. Even without experience playing an instrument, it's a role where you can utilize your deep understanding of music and your sense of song selection.
• PA/Sound : This is the role of a sound operator who adjusts the sound in live music venues and studios. As explained in the introductory guide to band sound and PA , even if you don't perform, you can be involved in the important job of "delivering the band's sound in the best possible condition."
• Manager/Backstage Staff : This role involves supporting the band's operations, such as booking live shows, managing social media, and overseeing merchandise sales. For someone who is good at bringing people together, this role can be just as essential as the band members themselves.
• Lyricist/Composer : Even without instrumental skills, you can contribute to the band by coming up with melody and chord progression ideas, and choosing the right words for lyrics. Using DTM (Desktop Music) software, you can create the basic structure of a song even if you can't play the keyboard.

There's no need to feel inferior for not being able to choose an instrument. A band isn't just made up of the people playing the instruments. If you're still unsure about playing an instrument, getting closer to the music scene through these kinds of interactions is a perfectly valid first step.

11. Checkpoints when trying out instruments at a music store or studio

Once you have a clearer idea of what you want to choose an instrument, the next step is to actually visit music stores and studios to try them out. Here's a summary of the key points to check at this stage.

• Be frank with the staff : If you honestly tell them, "I want to start a band, but I haven't decided on an instrument yet," many staff members will be happy to help. Nationwide chain stores like Shimamura Music often have a system in place to help beginners.
• Try out multiple brands and price ranges : Don't settle on the first one you try; try at least two or three different types to get a better understanding of your preferences and what makes a guitar easy to play.
• Check if it suits your physique : For guitars and basses, check the neck thickness and weight; for drums, check the throne height; for keyboards, check the key touch and weight. Actually touch and feel them to check.
• Consider secondhand or rental options : You don't need to buy an expensive new item right away. By utilizing the secondhand market or rental services, you can minimize your initial investment while determining if it suits your needs.
• Try renting instruments at a studio before buying : Especially for expensive and bulky instruments like drums and keyboards, it's wise to try out the equipment provided at a practice studio before making a purchase decision.
• Understand the overall budget beforehand : Knowing the total cost of band activities, including not only the instruments themselves but also peripheral equipment such as amplifiers, cables, and tuners, as well as future studio fees, will help prevent you from going over budget later on.

Reading product information and explanatory articles beforehand from major domestic manufacturers like Yamaha , which handle multiple instrument parts such as guitars, drums, and keyboards, will make conversations in stores smoother. There's absolutely no need to feel embarrassed going to a store without knowing the names or mechanisms of instruments, but a little preparation will make your trial playing experience much more worthwhile.

A roadmap from instrument selection to joining the band.

Let's organize everything we've discussed so far into a single, step-by-step roadmap. If you're ever unsure what to do, refer back to this roadmap.

1. Determine your direction : Using the three axes in Chapter 2 (personality, physique, and lifestyle) and the personality type diagnosis in Chapter 3 as references, narrow down your potential instruments to one or two.
2. Trying out and buying : Try out instruments at music stores and studios, including used and rental options, to find the one that suits you best (see the checkpoints in this chapter).
3. Solidify your foundation through self-study or lessons : Refer to the estimated timeframes provided in each instrument's chapter and learn the basics at a comfortable pace.
4. Gain experience playing music with others : Experience the "sense of playing together" early on through jam sessions and practice studios—something you can't learn through self-study alone.
5. Find a band or practice partners on Membo : Once you have a somewhat formed band, take the first step by applying to Membo 's member recruitment or finding people to practice with.

You don't need to complete every step perfectly before moving on. Steps 4 and 5, in particular, can be done slightly out of order or even in parallel. The important thing is not to get stuck at any point.

12. Five common mistakes beginners make

Here's a summary of common stumbling blocks for beginners in the initial stages of instrument selection and practice. Many mistakes can be avoided simply by knowing about them beforehand.

• Choosing based solely on appearance and brand image : It's natural to be drawn to the instruments used by your favorite artists, but choosing one that doesn't suit your physique or budget can make it difficult to stick with. While it's important to value your visual preferences, it's crucial not to skip the process of actually trying out the instrument.
• It's a misconception that buying an expensive instrument will improve your skills : For beginners, an easy-to-use entry-level model is often more effective for building a solid foundation than a high-priced, advanced model. Investing in equipment is more rational, as you gradually improve your skill level.
• Sticking to self-study and not joining a band : It's very common to see people who keep putting it off, thinking, "I'll wait until I'm better." As mentioned in the complete guide for beginners joining a band , many bands recruit with the condition "no prior instrument experience necessary." You'll improve faster in the long run if you take the plunge and join a band once you've reached a certain level of proficiency.
• Difficulty continuing practice : Trying to tackle difficult songs from the start makes it easy to get discouraged. The key to continuing is to start with songs with simple chord progressions, like those introduced in the guide on how to choose songs to practice with your band for the first time , and build up small feelings of accomplishment.
• Trying to complete everything alone : While you can practice an instrument by yourself, band music is only complete when played together with other instruments. By attending jam sessions early on and gaining experience playing music with others, you can gain insights that you wouldn't get from self-study alone.

13. Common questions about choosing an instrument

I like several instruments and can't decide which one to choose.

I think that's more of a fortunate situation than a problem. Remember the "multi-instrumentalist" option I introduced in Chapter 10 of this article. If you focus on one instrument first and then explore a second one when you have the time and energy, you don't have to force yourself to give up your interest in multiple instruments. If you absolutely want to narrow it down to just one, checking whether you can make noise at home (Axis 3) will often give you a realistic answer.

Is it ever too late to start playing a musical instrument?

In short, it's never too late. As mentioned in the complete guide for beginners joining a band , many bands listed on Membo are recruiting members regardless of age or experience level, with the condition "no prior instrument experience necessary." There's no right or wrong time to start; the best time is when you feel like starting.

Do handedness or body type matter when choosing an instrument?

While it's not entirely unrelated, there's no need to worry excessively. There are left-handed guitar models, and physical aptitude can be largely compensated for by practice methods and equipment choices. The physical requirements mentioned in section 2 of this article are merely guidelines for "how easy it is to take the first step," and should not be considered absolute constraints.

Can I join a band just by self-studying?

Yes, you can. In fact, joining a band once you have a certain level of basic skills is often more effective for faster improvement than waiting until you have completely finished self-studying before joining a band. As mentioned in Chapter 12, "insisting on self-study and not joining a band" is one of the mistakes beginners often make. Once you have a solid foundation, I recommend taking the plunge and trying to find a band that suits you at Membo .

14. Summary | Once you've decided on your instrument, the next step is to find a band.

This article directly addresses the common problem of "wanting to be in a band but not knowing which instrument to play," exploring three axes: personality, physical condition, and lifestyle. It examines the characteristics of each of the five main parts—guitar, bass, drums, keyboard, and vocals—along with realistic costs and timelines, and the tendencies of parts that are chronically lacking in band settings. In addition, it introduces the option of becoming a multi-instrumentalist, tips for trying out instruments at music stores and studios, and common mistakes beginners make.

The important thing isn't to make the perfect choice. Once you have a general idea of your direction, the first step is to take action. If you want to form a band from scratch, starting with a guide on how to start a cover band is a good approach, and if you want to join an existing band, refer to a guide for beginners . Once you're ready to make music, reading a beginner's guide to band sound and PA will deepen your understanding of how to create sound in actual studios and live venues. If you want to get an overview of the Japanese band scene as a whole , "What is the Music Scene? A Complete Guide to the Japanese Band Scene Map and How to Get Into It" should also be helpful.

Once you've decided on your instrument, the next step is finding a band. Membo , which we operate, is a service that allows you to search across information from multiple Japanese band member recruitment sites, and it supports band recruitment information from all 47 prefectures of Japan. Many bands are listed with the condition "No prior instrument experience welcome," so if this article has given you a sense of direction, please try searching for a band waiting for you on Membo . If you're unsure how to use it, please also check out Membo's help page , user guide , app usage page , announcements page , and author information page. You've taken the first step of choosing an instrument, and the world of bands will surely welcome you.