Why You Should Play Music As A Hobby (Hint: It’s Not Just for Fun)

Playing a musical instrument is more than just a hobby; it’s a journey that enriches your life in countless ways. As you delve into the world of music, you’ll find yourself developing a range of cognitive, emotional, and social skills. Your brain becomes a vibrant orchestra, with different regions working in harmony as you decode sheet music, coordinate finger movements, and interpret musical nuances. This cognitive workout strengthens your memory, problem-solving abilities, and even spatial reasoning.

Beyond the intellectual benefits, playing an instrument is a powerful emotional outlet. The act of creating music can evoke a wide range of feelings, from tranquility to exhilaration. It provides a healthy way to express yourself, manage stress, and boost your mood. The sense of accomplishment you feel as you master new pieces or perform for others can also significantly enhance your self-esteem and confidence.

Moreover, learning an instrument often fosters a strong sense of community. Joining a band or orchestra allows you to connect with like-minded individuals, collaborate on creative projects, and share your passion for music with others. These social interactions can enrich your life and provide a supportive network of friends.

In essence, playing a musical instrument is a holistic experience that benefits your mind, body, and soul. It’s an investment in your personal growth, a source of joy, and a lifelong pursuit that can bring immense fulfillment.

Whether you’re a seasoned musician or just starting your musical journey, Singapore offers a vibrant music scene with a plethora of exceptional musical instrument stores. From guitars and drums to keyboards and pianos, these stores cater to every musical taste and budget. Here’s a curated list of the top musical instrument stores in Singapore.

Key Consideration Factors

Here are some key consideration factors before picking up a musical instrument.

• Personal Factors:
  • Interest and Motivation: Choose an instrument that genuinely excites you and aligns with your musical preferences.
  • Time Commitment: Be realistic about the time you can dedicate to practise. Some instruments require more practice than others.
  • Goals: Define your musical aspirations. Are you aiming for casual enjoyment, professional performance, or something in between?
  • Personality: Consider your personality traits. Some instruments may be better suited to analytical or creative individuals.
  • Physical Attributes: Certain instruments may have physical requirements, such as finger dexterity or lung capacity.
• Practical Considerations:
  • Budget: Factor in the cost of the instrument, lessons, accessories, and maintenance.
  • Space: Ensure you have adequate space for practice and storage.
  • Noise Level: Consider the noise level of the instrument and how it might affect those around you.
  • Accessibility to Resources: Evaluate the availability of teachers, music stores, and online resources in your area.
• Instrument-Specific Factors:
  • Sound: Consider the sound you prefer and the versatility of the instrument.
  • Learning Curve: Some instruments have a steeper learning curve than others.
  • Social Opportunities: If you’re interested in playing with others, choose an instrument that is commonly used in ensembles or bands.
• Here are a few tips to help you get started on your musical journey:
  • Master the Basics: Before diving into complex pieces, make sure you have a solid foundation in music theory. Understanding rhythm, melody, and harmony will help you play with confidence and creativity.
  • Find a Great Mentor: A skilled teacher can guide you through the learning process, provide personalised feedback, and keep you motivated.
  • Practice Makes Perfect: Consistent practice is the key to improvement. Dedicate a little time each day to honing your skills.
  • Set Achievable Goals: Break down your learning into smaller, manageable steps. This will help you stay focused and track your progress.
  • Embrace Mistakes: Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. They’re a natural part of learning. Use them as opportunities to grow and improve.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a skilled musician.Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process of learning.

10 Best Musical Instrument Stores In Singapore

1. Swee Lee

Swee Lee, a Singapore-based company established in 1946, has grown into a prominent musical instrument and lifestyle retailer and distributor across Southeast Asia. The company’s enduring commitment to quality and passion for music has solidified its position as a trusted name in the region’s music industry.

2. Accent Musical Equipment

Accent, a well-established company founded in 1988, has solidified its position as a premier supplier of musical instruments and accessories in Singapore. With a strong track record spanning over three decades, Accent has earned the trust of numerous customers in the music industry. Their expertise lies in providing a wide range of Woodwind, Brass, and Percussion instruments, catering to the diverse needs of musicians.

3. Tong Ming Xi Pte Ltd

Tong Ming Xi is a comprehensive music solutions provider, specialising in violins, violas, and cellos. They offer a wide range of instruments catering to different skill levels, with expert advice for personalised selection. Their in-house workshop ensures optimal instrument condition through repair, maintenance, and restoration services. By actively engaging with the global music community, Tong Ming Xi contributes to the advancement of music education and industry through the Global Strings Federation.

4. Opulent Pianoforte SG

Opulent Pianoforte, a leading high-end piano distributor, was established in Beijing in 2007. With a decade of global trading experience, the company specialises in quality used pianos from renowned international brands. The company’s dedicated team ensures stringent quality checks throughout the entire process, from sourcing to delivery. Opulent Pianoforte entered the Singapore market, aiming to bring world-class pianos to Singaporean homes and provide access to rare and exclusive instruments from brands like Steinway & Sons.

5. Boon Musical Instrument Centre

Boon Musical Instrument Centre offers a comprehensive range of musical instrument, studio, and audio-visual equipment rentals at competitive prices. Their services cater to both amateur and professional musicians, orchestras, educational institutions, and event organisers. Whether it’s a short-term rental or a long-term commitment, Boon Musical Instrument Centre ensures that clients have access to the right equipment to meet their specific needs. Additionally, they provide their own studio space for musicians to practise and collaborate.

6. SR Lifestyle Singapore

SR Lifestyle Singapore is a company that specialises in musical instruments and audio equipment. They offer a wide range of products from various brands, including Casio, Roland, and Yamaha. They provide musical instruments, audio equipment such as speakers, amplifiers, and headphones. They offer a range of accessories for musical instruments and audio equipment, such as stands, cables, and power supplies.

7. Cristofori Music

Cristofori Music Singapore is a leading music company and school in Singapore, offering a wide range of musical instruments, lessons, and courses. They are the largest retailer of musical instruments in Singapore, offering a vast selection of pianos, guitars, violins, drums, and other instruments from renowned brands. They specialise in pianos, carrying a wide range of acoustic and digital pianos from top brands like Yamaha, Kawai, and Roland. They also offer a variety of accessories like stands, cases, and music books.

8. Luther Music

Luther Music, a trusted name in the music industry since 1996, is dedicated to providing musicians with high-quality gear, expert advice, and competitive prices. The company prides itself on offering a wide range of leading brands and models, carefully selected for their exceptional sound and performance. Luther Music’s knowledgeable staff is passionate about sharing their expertise and helping customers make informed decisions. With a customer-first approach, the company strives to provide a positive shopping experience for musicians of all levels.

9. The Music Works

The Music Works is a comprehensive music store and workshop catering to music enthusiasts of all ages. Established in 2012 as Absolute Piano, TMW has since expanded its offerings to include a wide range of instruments such as drums, ukuleles, and acoustic and electric guitars. With a focus on quality and customer satisfaction, TMW provides expert instruction and a curated selection of musical instruments from renowned brands like Casio, Yamaha, Roland, and Korg. Their experienced teachers offer tailored curriculums to help individuals of all skill levels develop their musical abilities.

10. CCM Guzheng Guqin Music Store

CCM Guzheng Guqin Music Store Singapore is a popular choice for those interested in learning or purchasing Guzheng and Guqin instruments. They specialize in selling high-quality Guzheng and Guqin instruments from various brands and price ranges, catering to both beginners and advanced players. The store also offers lessons for both Guzheng and Guqin, taught by experienced instructors.

Conclusion

Have Fun! Remember to enjoy the process. Music is a beautiful and rewarding journey. Whether you’re looking for a classic guitar, a modern synthesiser, or a traditional Chinese instrument, you’re sure to find it in one of these top-notch music stores. Don’t forget to visit these musical havens and let your passion for music soar!