At Dusty Strings, our goal is to make it easy for people to get into playing music for the first time, or get back into music if it’s been a while since you’ve picked up an instrument.
Playing music has so many benefits! It can be meditative or energizing, relaxing or uplifting, creative, expressive -- whatever you choose. Music can boost your mood through reduced cortisol levels and increased dopamine and serotonin production. It’s been shown to improve memory creation and recall. It’s a great way to create meaningful connections with others in your community, and socializing is great for mental health too. Most of all, playing music is fun!
How do I get started? You’ll need an instrument (or your voice!) and some guidance.
Should I buy an instrument first? Our store offers a wide range of instruments at many different price points, but we usually recommend renting an instrument to get started. See, the most important thing with playing music is to get started, and renting an instrument is a short-cut to the good stuff. Hold off on purchasing an instrument until you’ve had the opportunity to play a bit, take a class, learn some chords. At that point, it will be easier to make an informed decision about what features you’re looking for in your new instrument. Our rental program includes rent credit that can be put towards a purchase, so money spent on an instrument rental isn’t wasted. See our rentals page for more details.
Some folks may prefer to purchase an instrument first, and we always love to help connect players with a new instrument that will fit their needs and budget. Stop by the store and chat!
Or, you may have an older instrument that needs some love to get into its best playing shape. We recommend having an expert look at a used or hand-me-down instrument before starting on your musical journey, just so we can make sure it is playing like it’s supposed to. Even if you are a new player, you are worth an instrument that works properly. A poorly playing instrument is a sure-fire way to get discouraged and quit. Bring your hand-me-down instrument by our shop for a quick check-up, and we’ll give you an honest, no-strings assessment.
Ok, I have a working instrument, what do I do with it? Learning with a teacher can get you playing right away. We offer private lessons, group classes and workshops. Working one-on-one with a teacher in a private lesson gives you the most personalized experience. A good teacher will listen to your goals and help you map out a path to achieve them. Group classes can be a fun way to get started if you prefer a social atmosphere. Workshops are a one-day event, and are great for returning or intermediate players who want to get inspired or up their game. If time or budget doesn’t allow for lessons or classes, the next best thing is to find guidance in a good method book, or online video course. Our store stocks a great selection of instructional books to help new players get started, or help returning players advance in new ways.
What’s next once I’m happy with my playing ability? If you’ve got an instrument, know a few chords, or have a song or two under your belt, you’re ready to start playing with others! Community orchestras, pub sessions, and open mics are great ways to connect with others in the community. You’ll find that sharing experiences through music can create some of the strongest friendships. If the session at the pub still feels intimidating, we offer free and donation-based jams and meetups as fun, low-stakes ways to ease into playing with others. Check out our Gather & Sing on Wednesdays at noon, and other inspiring weekly or monthly meetups.
If you think you’d like to get started playing music, we’re excited for you, and want to help. Call or stop into the shop to chat.
