19 Musical Instruments That Start With the Letter A

Music is a universal language that has the power to move people from all walks of life. From classical symphonies to modern pop songs, music has the ability to evoke emotions and create unforgettable memories. One of the key components of music is the musical instrument, which has been around for centuries and is responsible for bringing music to life.

In this article, we will explore musical instruments that start with the letter A. From the ubiquitous acoustic guitar to the exotic-sounding arghul, this list will cover a wide range of instruments that are sure to pique the interest of any music lover.

Some of the instruments on this list are well-known and have been popular for decades, while others are lesser-known and may only be familiar to niche audiences. Regardless, each instrument has its own unique sound and characteristics that make it a valuable addition to the world of music.

Whether you’re a musician looking to expand your instrument repertoire or simply a music enthusiast interested in learning more about the fascinating world of musical instruments, this article is sure to be a great starting point for your musical journey. So sit back, relax, and let’s explore the wonderful world of musical instruments that start with the letter A.

1. “Accordion”

The accordion is a unique and versatile instrument. It’s made up of bellows that are operated by both hands, with buttons or keys on the right side for playing notes. Its sound ranges from mellow to bright depending on how it’s played – using techniques like vibrato and tremolo can create beautiful effects. Accordions come in different sizes and types, allowing musicians to choose the one best suited for their purpose.

This musical tool has been used in many genres over its history. From folk music to classical pieces, there’s an accordion-friendly version out there! Jazz bands often incorporate it into their arrangements as well; its range allows it to provide a lively addition to any mix. Whether you want something subtle or something bolder, the accordion can do both at once.

Accordions have also become popular instruments for solo performances, thanks to their ease of use and portability. Musicians who play them can switch between chords quickly while maintaining melodies simultaneously. This makes them ideal for busking as they can easily fill public spaces with music without needing another musician around.
It’s no wonder why so many people love playing this instrument: its versatility means anyone can find a way to enjoy it! With enough practice, a person could be jamming away happily with an accordion in hand within days.

2. “Acoustic Bass Guitar”

The acoustic bass guitar is another popular musical instrument that has taken many forms over the years. This stringed instrument has been used by musicians in a variety of genres, including jazz and blues. It’s known for its deep, rich tones that can add a lot of depth to any song.

One great thing about the acoustic bass guitar is how easy it is to learn how to play. Compared to other types of guitars, this one does not require as much technical knowledge or experience with music theory. The strings are also easier on your fingers than those found on electric models, which makes playing more enjoyable overall.
Unlike some instruments, the acoustic bass guitar does not need an amplifier in order for you to hear it properly. Its natural sound is loud enough to be heard without one – perfect for busking or jamming out with friends! Additionally, its size allows you to transport it easily from gig-to-gig if needed.

The beauty of the acoustic bass guitar lies in its ability to fit many different styles of music while still sounding unique each time. From upbeat funk tunes to slow ballads, there’s something special about hearing the low notes produced by this instrument when played correctly. With practice and dedication anyone can become an expert at playing this fantastic tool!

3. “Acoustic Guitar”

In contrast to its bass counterpart, the acoustic guitar is a smaller instrument with a bright and resonant sound. With six strings, this popular instrument can create an array of different sounds which makes it great for both solo performances as well as group jam sessions. It’s also incredibly versatile; from classical music to blues or rock songs, playing an acoustic guitar will never get old!

The best thing about learning how to play the acoustic guitar is that anyone can do it. Although there are some technical aspects involved in mastering the chords and strumming patterns, even beginners should be able to pick up basic techniques quickly. Additionally, you don’t need any special equipment besides your hands – no amps or pedals necessary!

When it comes time to choose an acoustic guitar, there are many factors to consider such as size, type of wood used in construction, and setting preferences (like string action). Doing research beforehand will help ensure that you purchase one that fits your style and skill level perfectly.

Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience under your belt, the possibilities with an acoustic guitar are endless. There’s something undeniably magical about hearing those first few notes and being able to craft them into beautiful melodies over time. No matter what kind of music you like to listen or perform – give the acoustic guitar a chance and see where it takes you!

4. “Aeolian Harp”

For a more ethereal sound, the Aeolian harp is an instrument to consider. Unlike the guitar, it requires no playing and produces music without any physical input. Instead, its strings are tuned to specific notes and then plucked by wind passing through them. This creates a mesmerizing effect; gentle tones that can be heard in the background of nature or used as accompaniment for other instruments.

The Aeolian harp doesn’t require much set up – just some tuning and securing so that it stays upright on its own. It’s also highly portable which makes it perfect for outdoor performances or traveling musicians who want something unique to add to their repertoire. And while this instrument may not produce loud sounds like other traditional acoustic instruments do, its subtle beauty is sure to captivate listeners with every note.

If you’re looking for a way to enhance your next performance or simply enjoy making soothing music at home, the Aeolian harp might be worth exploring. Not only because of its ability to create such serene melodies but also due to its simplicity; all you need is a bit of breeze and you’re good to go! Plus, there are plenty of tutorials available online if you want help getting started.
So don’t let the thought of mastering another complex instrument stop you from trying something new – give the Aeolian harp a chance and experience what sweet melodies await!

5. “Agung”

For a more powerful sound, the agung is an instrument to consider. This traditional Indonesian gong produces a deep and resonant tone that will surely make an impact on any performance. It’s made up of several different sizes of gongs arranged in patterns and can be used both as accompaniment or as a solo instrument.

Similar to other percussion instruments, playing the agung requires some skill; one must learn not only how to hit each gong but also how to control its volume. As such, it may take some practice for beginners before they get comfortable with this instrument’s nuances. But once mastered, you’ll be able to create rich melodies and rhythms with ease!

The agung has been around for centuries so there are plenty of resources available online if you need help getting started. Plus, many professional musicians use the agung in their own performances – from jazz ensembles to symphonies – which means it won’t be hard finding inspiration either.
So don’t let the thought of mastering another difficult instrument stop you from trying something new – give the agung a chance and experience what incredible music awaits!

6. “Ajaeng”

Another instrument to consider is the ajaeng, a traditional Korean zither. This stringed instrument has seven strings that are plucked with a pick or bow and produces soothing melodies that will transport you to another world. It’s commonly used in court music but can be adapted for many different genres of music as well.

The ajaeng was traditionally tuned by ear and so it takes some skill – more than just finger strength – to get the right sound from this instrument. However, modern technology allows players to tune their instruments accurately and easily with the help of an electronic tuner. With patience, anyone willing to put in the time can learn how to play this beautiful instrument!

Not only does learning how to play the ajaeng require dedication, but also understanding its unique timbre. The tone produced by this instrument varies depending on which part of the string is struck and if any accessories like nails or picks are used. As such, one must experiment in order find what works best for them before they master the nuances of playing it correctly.

In short, those looking for something new should definitely give the ajaeng a try – once mastered, it’ll bring your performances alive with its mesmerizing tones!

7. “Alphasphere”

A great alternative to the ajaeng is the Alphasphere. This instrument offers a whole new range of possibilities for musicians of all levels. It’s an electronic music creation device that combines elements from both traditional instruments and modern sound design technology, allowing users to create truly unique sounds. With its intuitive interface and easy-to-use controls, it’s perfect for anyone who wants to try something different in their performances or recordings.

The Alphasphere provides limitless opportunities for exploration – you can use it as a synthesizer, sampler, sequencer and controller all rolled into one instrument! Its powerful capabilities allow players to craft complex sonic landscapes with ease. Plus, there are hundreds of pre-programmed tones available at the touch of a button so you don’t have to spend hours programming your own patches if you don’t want to.

Since the Alphasphere has no strings or moving parts like other musical instruments do, learning how to play it doesn’t require any special skills – just an understanding of basic music theory and some practice time! You also won’t need additional accessories like picks or bows either; instead, you can explore its many features with just your fingers on its tactile keys.

Whether used live onstage or in studio production work, the Alphasphere adds creative flair and personality by giving musicians access to infinite soundscapes they never knew existed before. With this versatile tool at their disposal, they’ll be able to expand their repertoire beyond what was previously thought possible!

8. “Alphorn”

The Alphorn, or alpenhorn, is a unique wind instrument with an unmistakable sound. This traditional folk instrument has been used for centuries to call travelers and herders in the Alps. The long wooden tube produces a hauntingly beautiful tone that can be heard over miles of rugged terrain. It’s one of the most recognizable symbols of European mountain culture and often evokes feelings of nostalgia when played.

A player holds the Alphorn vertically while blowing into it at an angle, creating air pressure which vibrates against the walls inside the horn chamber. Its distinct sound carries across great distances due to its bright resonance – even more so than brass instruments like trumpets! As such, this makes it ideal for signaling messages from far away locations.

Playing the Alphorn requires precision timing and breath control as well as correct posture – something that takes practice to achieve properly. While playing, musicians must focus on their breathing technique; inhaling deeply through their nose will produce richer sounds compared to shallow breaths taken through their mouths. Additionally, they must also pay attention to where their lips are placed relative to the mouthpiece in order for them to hit all the right notes accurately.

The beauty of this instrument lies in its simplicity; anyone can learn how to play it regardless of age or experience level if they have enough dedication and patience. With time, players can master its delicate nuances and create truly mesmerizing music that resonates deep within our hearts!

9. “Alpine Bell”

Continuing with the tradition of European mountain culture, we come to the Alpine Bell. When struck, its clear and melodic sound can be heard echoing across the valleys for miles – a beautiful reminder that music is everywhere in nature! The bell has been used throughout history as a way to communicate between different villages and towns; it’s also associated with religious ceremonies like weddings or funerals.

The traditional Alpine bells are made from bronze or brass and shaped into various sizes depending on their purpose. They range from small hand-held models intended for personal use to large versions hung up in churches or town squares. In order to produce their unique tones, each bell must be carefully crafted by skilled artisans who have experience working with metal alloys.

Unlike other instruments, playing an alpine bell requires no breath control or technique – just patience and practice! All you need is a mallet (or even your bare hands) to strike the bell at any angle you want while listening closely for the pitch changes produced by where you hit it. With enough time spent experimenting and tinkering around, players will soon find they’re able to create some truly magical sounds!

So if you ever get the chance to visit those picturesque mountains of Europe, make sure to bring along your own set of bells so you too can join in on this timeless celebration of life’s simple joys!

10. “Alto Clarinet”

The alto clarinet is an instrument that has been around for centuries, but it’s only recently become popular with modern players. This unique woodwind produces a mellow yet clear sound – perfect for blending in ensembles or playing solo pieces! It’s often used in jazz and classical music, as well as some contemporary genres like rock and pop.

Unlike its larger cousin the bass clarinet, the alto clarinet is smaller and easier to transport. And while you don’t need any previous musical experience to start learning this instrument, having basic knowledge of how to read sheet music can help tremendously when practicing scales or tackling more complex pieces.

When it comes to creating music on the alto clarinet, there are two main techniques – single tonguing and double-tonguing. Single tongueing involves making short staccato bursts of air by quickly opening and closing your mouth (think of a machine gun firing!), whereas double-tongueing requires making longer notes with a smoother articulation (similar to talking). Both techniques take time and patience to master, so don’t be discouraged if things aren’t sounding great right away!

No matter what style of music you play on the alto clarinet, the key is finding ways to express yourself through your own personal voice. With enough practice and dedication, anyone can learn how to bring out their inner musician – no matter how inexperienced they may feel starting out!

11. “Alto Saxophone”

The alto saxophone is an instrument that has been around for centuries, but its popularity skyrocketed in the jazz era of the early twentieth century. It’s used widely across many genres today – from classic pieces to modern pop tunes! This woodwind produces a mellow yet bright sound, which makes it perfect for blending with other instruments or playing solo performances.

Unlike some other reeds, like clarinets and oboes, learning how to play the alto saxophone doesn’t require any previous musical experience. However, having basic knowledge of music theory can help tremendously when practicing scales or tackling more complex pieces. Plus, since this instrument uses a single-reed mouthpiece, it’s easier to produce a good tone right away than with double-reeded instruments – though getting consistent results still takes practice and dedication!

Playing on the alto saxophone involves two main techniques – single tonguing and double-tonguing. Single tongueing requires making short staccato bursts of air by quickly opening and closing your mouth (think machine gun!), while double-tongueing involves producing longer notes with smoother articulation (similar to talking). Both take time and patience to master so don’t be discouraged if things aren’t sounding great right away!

At the end of the day, playing music on the alto saxophone is all about finding ways to express yourself through your own personal voice. With enough practice and dedication anyone can learn how to make beautiful music – no matter their level of experience!

12. “Angélique”

Now, if you’re looking for a unique instrument that has been around since the 1930s, Angélique is definitely worth considering. This rare melodic percussion instrument produces an enchanting sound unlike any other and its design allows players to explore multiple timbres – from soothing tones to explosive rhythms!

The core of Angélique consists of two cylindrical drums which are connected by a wooden board. It can be played with sticks or mallets and each drum produces different sounds when struck in different areas. The player needs to create their own rhythm while managing both drums at once, resulting in an incredibly dynamic sonic experience! It takes time and practice to become proficient but there’s no greater reward than producing music on such a beautiful instrument.

When playing Angélique it’s important to have control over your volume levels so as not to overpower the rest of the ensemble or performance space. You’ll also want to use varying degrees of pressure when striking either side of the instrument – this will give you more options in terms of dynamics and expression. Finally, don’t forget about body movement: swaying back and forth with the music is essential for creating a truly captivating performance!

Angélique requires skillful coordination between hands, feet and body movements; however, it’s well worth learning how to play this magical instrument. With enough dedication anyone can bring these heart-warming melodies into existence and enjoy hours of musical pleasure!

13. “Anglo Saxon Lyre”

The Anglo Saxon Lyre is a wonderful stringed instrument that dates back to ancient times. It’s an incredibly versatile tool, capable of producing both gentle melodies and powerful rhythms. This makes it an ideal choice for those who enjoy playing traditional folk music as well as modern styles such as jazz or funk!

Unlike most other instruments, the lyre has no frets to indicate where notes should be played; instead, it relies on the skill of the player to determine which strings they should pluck or strum. To get started, you’ll need to learn how to use your left hand to press down on certain strings while using your right hand to pick or strum others. This technique can create some truly enchanting sounds when mastered correctly!

Another unique aspect of the lyre is its ability to produce different tones depending on what type of material is used for its body and strings. For example, using lighter woods like cedar will give a brighter sound whereas denser materials like mahogany will provide a deeper resonance. Experimenting with these different timbres can open up whole new musical possibilities – so don’t be afraid to try something new!

Using one’s hands in this way requires practice but the rewards are worth the effort – being able to express oneself musically through this time-honored instrument brings joy and beauty into any performance. With dedication and patience anyone can unlock their inner musician by learning how to play the Anglo Saxon Lyre!

14. “Appalachian Dulcimer”

Now, let’s take a look at another traditional stringed instrument with its roots in the Appalachian Mountains of North America – the dulcimer. This is an easy-to-learn instrument that produces a beautiful sound and can be used to play both folk music and popular music. It has three strings which are played by plucking or strumming with one hand while pressing down on certain frets with the other.

Although it looks simple, playing the dulcimer requires some practice; beginners should start out slowly and focus on finding their own personal style before trying more complex pieces. As they become more experienced, they may want to experiment with different tunings as well as alternate picking techniques like hammering or strumming. With these skills under their belt, players will find themselves able to create unique arrangements of any song!

The beauty of the dulcimer lies not only in its sound but also in its portability; since it’s light enough to carry around, it’s perfect for taking along on camping trips or outdoor events where you might want to serenade your friends with melodies from nature. Furthermore, this special instrument doesn’t require electricity or batteries – just imagination!

Playing the dulcimer encourages musicians to explore new possibilities within familiar genres and develop their own musical voice. Whether playing traditional songs or creating original compositions, learning how to use this versatile tool opens up a world of possibility for anyone looking to express themselves musically through this beloved instrument.

15. “Arpeggione”

The arpeggione is a stringed instrument that originated in the 19th century. It looks similar to both a guitar and a cello, but it produces a sound more akin to the latter. This six-string instrument has frets like its cousin the guitar, making it easier for players to produce chords with their left hand while using their right hand in order to pluck or strum individual strings.
Unlike with many instruments, playing the arpeggione requires an even balance of both hands; this allows musicians to perform intricate melodies without sacrificing any speed or accuracy.

Additionally, due to its mellow tone and range of four octaves, this instrument perfectly complements other stringed instruments when used as part of an ensemble.
Although learning how to play the arpeggione can be challenging at first, those who take on this unique challenge can soon reap the rewards – from being able to express themselves musically through complex pieces of music to impressing friends and family alike with beautiful performances! Plus, since it’s relatively small in size compared to most other stringed instruments, taking it along on trips is easy too.

For anyone looking for a new way to approach traditional genres or explore more modern styles, mastering the arpeggione could be just what they need! With practice and dedication comes great reward – so don’t hesitate; give it a go today and see where your musical journey takes you!

16. “Array Mbira”

The array mbira is an African musical instrument, consisting of a wooden board with metal keys attached to it. It has been played for centuries by many different cultures throughout Africa and beyond. The mbira produces a unique sound that is perfect for creating complex polyrhythms and melodies.

This instrument is sometimes referred to as the “thumb piano” because of its use of small metal keys which are plucked or struck with the thumbs or fingers. These keys create beautiful tones that can be used in combination with other instruments, such as drums, flutes and even strings, to create complete compositions.

In addition to being incredibly versatile, the array mbira also offers players a great deal of control over their playing style. By manipulating the pitch of each key, musicians can craft intricate rhythms and harmonies that will delight audiences everywhere. Furthermore, due to its relatively low cost compared to more traditional acoustic instruments like guitars or pianos, it’s become increasingly popular among amateur and professional musicians alike.

No matter what type of music you’re interested in making – from jazz to folk – the array mbira provides an ideal platform for experimentation and creativity. Its range of sounds makes it suitable for any genre or style imaginable, allowing you to take your performance skills to new heights!

17. “Atumpan”

Continuing our exploration of African musical instruments, we come to the Atumpan. This is a type of drum, traditionally made from a hollowed log and covered with animal hide heads. The sound that’s produced when struck by hand or sticks is an intense thumping noise which carries over great distances in open areas.

The Atumpan has been used for centuries throughout West Africa as part of traditional ceremonies and festivals. It was also used to communicate between villages, serving as an early form of what would later become known as ‘drum telegraphy’. Today, it continues to be played at events such as weddings and funerals, where its resonant tones add texture and atmosphere to proceedings.

Although the Atumpan may seem simple compared to other drums like the djembe or conga, it offers players plenty of creative freedom. By adjusting their grip on the head or varying the striking force applied to different parts of it, musicians can create nuanced rhythms and melodies which are uniquely suited to certain genres or pieces. In this way, they can use the instrument not just for accompaniment but also as a solo voice within compositions.

Moreover, while some percussionists specialize in playing only one kind of drum (such as bongos), those who learn how to play multiple types can easily switch back and forth between them depending on the style being performed – making them more versatile performers overall. With all these benefits combined, it’s no wonder why so many people have taken up learning how to master this incredible instrument!

18. “Audiocubes”

Switching to a different type of instrument, we come to the audicubes. These are small electronic devices made up of four cubes connected together by wires and can be used to create captivating musical sounds. Each cube has its own individual speaker and LED light, allowing users to mix and match frequencies with ease. They also feature simple controls like knobs and buttons which make it easy for anyone – regardless of their skill level – to produce unique compositions in no time at all.

The audicubes provide an innovative way for musicians to explore sound design without needing any expensive equipment or technical knowledge. With just a few tweaks, players can generate complex textures from minimal input – perfect for ambient music, experimental performance art, or even as background noise during meditation sessions. Plus, they occupy very little space which makes them ideal for use on the go!

What’s more, these devices offer incredible value when compared to other instruments such as synthesizers or samplers; not only do they cost less but they’re also much easier to transport around since they don’t require additional peripherals like keyboards or drum machines. In this sense, audicubes represent a great option for those who want to start producing music without breaking the bank.

Overall then, audicubes are an incredibly versatile tool that allows users to explore sonic possibilities anywhere and anytime – making them an invaluable addition to any musician’s arsenal!

19. “Autoharp”

Moving on from audicubes, let’s take a look at the autoharp. This stringed instrument is played by strumming or plucking its strings while pressing down buttons that act as dampers and control which notes are heard. It has an unmistakable sound that can be used to create sweet melodies and lively rhythms. Plus, with its lightweight design and easy portability, it’s perfect for taking along to outdoor events like camping trips or concerts in the park.

The autoharp comes in various sizes – ranging from small lap-sized models all the way up to full size versions – so it’s suitable for musicians of any skill level and playing style. Additionally, because of its simplistic construction, you don’t need any prior experience to start making music right away; even complete beginners can quickly learn basic chords and progress their skills further over time.

What makes the autoharp particularly special is its unique tonal palette; when different combinations of strings are struck together, they create rich and varied sounds that add texture and depth to your compositions. On top of this, some modern versions come equipped with built-in effects such as reverb or chorus which allows players to experiment even more with sonic possibilities!

So whether you’re just starting out in your musical journey or already have years of experience under your belt, the autoharp is certainly worth considering as an addition to your setup. Its versatility makes it great for both solo performances and ensemble pieces alike – making sure you always have something new to explore whenever inspiration strikes!