Are you struggling with what string instrument to choose? If you’re like many beginners, choosing the right instrument is a challenge. Years ago I was lucky when I chose my first instrument, the viola, because our teacher played the Star Wars theme on it in a fourth-grade assembly. But I’m probably the exception. Many students start out on one instrument and switch to another instrument shortly thereafter and there’s nothing wrong with that!

Like in Harry Potter where the “wand chooses the wizard,” the instrument chooses the player. When you’re first starting out, your instrument selection may seem innocuous, but over time you’ll realize whether that instrument is right for you.

You can read our guide to figure out if cello is the right instrument for you.