Study: More Young Adults Embrace Music

An increasing number of young individuals are diving into the world of music, selecting their personal favorites from an ever-expanding array of musical instruments. Conditions today are exceptionally optimal, as revealed by a representative YouGov survey conducted among 3,000 adult Americans. The results not only carry significant weight but also send a trendy signal. 🎸🎵

Survey: Surge in the Number of Musicians

Approximately 66% of Americans have explored playing a musical instrument at some point in their lives. Breaking down the numbers by age groups, this figure rises to an impressive 71% among younger adults. This positive trend underscores a continuous surge in the count of hobbyist and amateur musicians. It’s akin to a rising wave of musical spirit, captivating an increasing number of individuals irresistibly. Contrary to expectations, handmade music isn’t diminishing; it’s merely, understandably, finding expression through electric instruments.

Source: YouGov

Encouragement Over Coercion – A Parental Approach

A significant contributing factor to this rise appears to be the increasing emphasis on fostering musical abilities in the younger generation by both parents and schools. Younger Americans are more familiar with the recorder as a starting instrument, frequently taught in US schools to introduce kids to a simple and affordable instrument, paving their way into the enchanting world of music. The survey highlights exemplary parental support, with about half of current or former musicians stressing that their parents encouraged them to learn an instrument but never forced them—a commendable approach.

Source: YouGov

Study: The Tenacity of Bassists

The survey delved into who not only played an instrument but continued to do so. The standout result: E-bassists, take a bow. You hold a prominent position among those unwaveringly dedicated to their hobby. With an impressive 52%, you outshine electric guitarists by a solid 10%. However, brass instruments show a noticeable decline. Yet, the fact that only 12% regretted giving up the recorder at some point is not a negative reflection. Instead, it reflects the recorder’s enduring status as the typical entry-level instrument, inviting further musical exploration.

Quelle: YouGov

A Desire Unfulfilled – Many Americans Yearn to Learn an Instrument

Only about a third of Americans have never learned to play an instrument. Interestingly, around half of them wish they had. 🎸🎹 According to the YouGov study, about half of those who played the piano or guitar regret no longer playing the instrument—comprising 17% of Americans, according to the presented estimate.

When asked which instrument they would most like to play, the majority mentioned the piano (47%), guitar (22%), or drums (8%).

The reasons for this desire are diverse, with responses filled with emotions that resonate with everyone. Statements like “I love the sound of the piano. Playing the piano can be beneficial to health because, while playing music, you can leave stress behind and relax,” or “Learning to play something (an instrument) would have helped my self-confidence and kept me occupied,” showcase the charm of these aspirations. Another heartwarming sentiment is, “To play for my grandchildren and encourage them to play a musical instrument of their choice.”

Harmonica & Ukulele – Autodidactic Adventures

Among the most frequently played instruments, certain ones are learned more autodidactically, while others rely on expert music instruction. Approximately 65% of harmonica players, or two-thirds, claim to have learned the instrument on their own as autodidacts; for the ukulele, it’s slightly less at 62%. There are also significant numbers of self-taught musicians for popular electric and electronic instruments. Autodidacts stand out, with 52% for the electric guitar, followed by an equal share of votes for the electric piano and the electric bass.

Interestingly, various instruments are more often learned with the support of music teachers or in school or music school. The clarinet takes the lead in this regard, reaching 73%. In only a small margin, the recorder and the trumpet, the saxophone and the flute, as well as the piano and the violin, follow closely.

Reasons to Embark on a Musical Journey

The survey, conducted in three separate waves, reveals one thing to all of us above all: It is never too late to learn a musical instrument! Find your personal favorite and turn your lifelong dream into a lived reality. It is undoubtedly worthwhile. There are endless reasons why, at any time, you should start learning an instrument. Here are five reasons, as an excerpt from many:

• Music is good for mental health and makes everything a bit better
• It’s simply a great feeling to play your own role models
• Motivating successes in playing music strengthen self-confidence
• Playing music enhances cognitive abilities and concentration
• An instrument, as a source of inspiration, opens the door to creative worlds.

#forevermusic

#noregrets

More Inspirational Reads and Motivations to Make Music

Explore additional motivational tips for musicians in this blog.

Check out the blog titled “Music Makes Everything a little Bit Better.”

Read our blog with more compelling reasons to engage in music-making.

Discover the blog discussing “It’s Never Too Late to Learn Something New.”

Finding Instruments & Expert Advice

Looking for an instrument or music equipment? You’re in the right place with us. 😉 Feel free to browse through our online shop at thomann.de. For inquiries, our colleagues from specialized departments are available for no-obligation consultations. Find all contact details here and schedule an appointment.

Harley Benton SC-400 SBK Vintage Series

Time to Turn Your Dream into Reality 💪

The opportune moment has arrived to turn your dream into reality and pursue it consistently. If you’re pondering what it truly takes, we can affirm: it’s about YOU! Our video “Is it time? It is!” is now live—for you and your success. Dive in below and let the motivation flow.

For additional information about the video and “Is it time? It is!” follow this link.

Your story

Share your narrative with us. If you’re contemplating learning a new instrument, whether for the first time or again, which one captures your interest, and what specifically draws you to it?

Simon's passion for music generated a long time ago, and led him to become a guitarist and self-produce his music with the band Onyria.

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