The violin is one of the most beautiful, but also most demanding instruments to start on. It has no frets, so you have to find every note by ear, and bowing is a science of its own. We tell you what you need, how to start with holding the violin and bow, and how long it takes to play your first melody.

The concert flute is one of the most beautiful and versatile wind instruments, but it is easy to get lost among the models on your first purchase. We explain how it differs from the recorder, what to watch for in the keys and material, and which concert flute suits a beginner or a child.

A harmonica is a cheap, pocket-sized instrument on which you can play your first melody within minutes. The catch is that there are two completely different types, and the wrong choice will slow you down. We explain the difference between a diatonic and a chromatic harmonica and advise which one, and in what key, to pick to start.