When is National Buy a Musical Instrument Day?
May 22nd is National Buy a Musical Instrument Day.
What is National Buy a Musical Instrument Day?
Music gives life rhythm and texture. It’s medicine for the mind, and it draws people together. National Buy a Musical Instrument Day urges us to purchase an instrument in celebration of every person’s ability to make music.
Perhaps you don’t own an instrument, or don’t even know how to play one. What would you like to play? You may be too old to become a violin virtuoso, but you’re never too old to learn. Or, for an inexpensive option, you could buy a harmonica, a Jew’s harp, or even a simple flute, such as an Irish tin whistle or a recorder.
Even if you already own instruments, National Buy a Musical Instrument Day is a good chance to expand your repertoire. Play the cello? Buy a woodwind. Play the piano? Pick up something that’s not percussive, like a clarinet or a trumpet.
Learn a new instrument. Or, buy a nicer version of something you already play. You decide. National Buy a Musical Instrument Day isn’t picky. It just wants more music in the world.
Fun facts about National Buy a Musical Instrument Day!
- Trumpets are compact, but these small instruments usually contain about six and a half feet of tubing.
- The earliest drums ever discovered were made with alligator hide.
- The first instrument played in space was a harmonica. American astronaut Walter Schirra played one aboard the Gemini 5 spacecraft in 1965.
- When music gives you the chills, that’s actually a dopamine release in your brain, giving you the feel-good hormone that’s linked to motivation.
How to celebrate National Buy a Musical Instrument Day:
- Go purchase an instrument, or shop for one online. This is a great day to buy that guitar you’ve been eyeing for months now. Or, browse the music store’s selection of eclectic musical devices.
- At the very least, spruce up any instruments you already own. Does your harp need new strings? Is your saxophone due for a polishing? Should you maybe stop storing your tools on that poor djembe in the closet?
- Play your instruments! They’re more fun that way.
What’s the hashtag for National Buy a Musical Instrument Day?
Use #BuyAMusicalInstrumentDay on social media when you post photos of your new musical instrument.