Think you’re too old to learn guitar or ukulele? It’s absolutely possible for adults to learn to play an instrument and enjoy it if they have the right mindset, instrument, and support.

Is It Too Late for an Adult to Learn an Instrument?

Have you ever wondered if you’re too old to start music lessons? Let me stop you right there—no, you’re not!

You wouldn’t believe how many stories I’ve heard (and witnessed) of people picking up an instrument at 30, 50, or even 60+ years old. And no, they weren’t child prodigies or music theory nerds. They were just ordinary people who wanted to do something creative and rewarding but had busy adult lives.

Though adulthood with its jobs, home, and family makes life difficult, music is one way to express oneself. It can serve as a form of coping with stress or be pursued as a passion project.

advertisement
advertisement

advertisement
advertisement

advertisement
advertisement

advertisement
advertisement

advertisement
advertisement

advertisement
advertisement

Being a virtuoso is probably something you have to be born with and begin at a young age. But if your goal is to strum a ukulele by the fire or play a song on your guitar that makes people smile—then yes, you can absolutely get there. I’ve been in music education for years, and I’ve seen it happen countless times.

I want to share some truths that might just convince you to finally give it a go.

The Science of Adult Learning: It’s Different, Not Worse

We all know kids pick things up quickly—language, balance, rhythm. Their brains are more “plastic,” meaning they can form new connections easily. But that doesn’t mean adults can’t learn. It just means we learn differently. 

The problem is not age but rather time, dedication, and perseverance. Since adults usually have more responsibilities and distractions, discipline is pretty important if you really want to master an instrument.

Noteworthy facts from psychologists and educators:

• Adults prefer self-directed learning. You’re more likely to stay motivated if you’re choosing the instrument, setting your own pace, and finding music you love.
• You bring life experience. That context actually helps—like understanding emotions in music or picking up rhythm from dancing at weddings!
• Intrinsic motivation is stronger. Adults often learn because they truly want to. Not because someone made them.

I think that the key to adult learning success is time, patience, and a bit of planning.

Important Factors That Keep You Going On: Keep In Mind

1. Motivation

These days, there’s no shortage of support—online communities, forums, YouTube tutorials, and both in-person and virtual lessons. Whether you want to master fingerpicking on a guitar or just play some chords on a ukulele, the resources are there. You just need to keep reminding yourself why you started.

2. Discipline Beats Talent

It’s true. Disciplined practice can go a long way in overcoming a talent deficit. For me, this is probably the most important thing. Practicing regularly—even just 30 minutes a day—can help you outpace someone with natural talent but no routine. Set a specific time each day and stick to it. That’s how habits form.

3. Choose the Right Instrument

The first step is picking the right instrument. Don’t make things harder than they need to be. We’ve got a handy guide on Everest Music to help you choose the best beginner guitar or ukulele based on your needs and goals.

4. Don’t Fear the Challenges

Everyone finds it hard at first. Adults, teens, kids, and even seasoned musicians when they pick up something new. So make it fun! Play songs you love. Make mistakes. Laugh about it.

5. Find Your Own Style

When you stop trying to copy others and start playing in a way that feels authentic to you, it becomes even more rewarding. At that point, your musical identity begins to take shape. After mastering the fundamentals, don’t be scared to improvise, jam, or even compose short songs. In your musical world, there are no wrong notes—just experiments.

A Simple Plan to Get You Started

To summarize, I advise you to make a rough plan for yourself:

1. Set Clear Goals. Use the SMART method: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-based. For example: “I want to play three songs confidently in two months.”

2. Find a Good Teacher. Look for someone who has experience teaching adult beginners. They’ll know how to adapt the pace and tone for your needs.

3. Track Your Progress. Create a calendar, checklist, or practice log. Crossing things off gives a real sense of progress—and it’s surprisingly motivating.

4. Learn a Bit of Theory. You can play more confidently and creatively if you know the fundamentals of keys, chords, and rhythm. You don’t need to dive deep. You will be able to recognize the fundamentals of what’s pleasing to the ear.

5. Start Performing for Others. Don’t be afraid to play for your friends, your dog, your partner, or your children. Even if you are nervous, their support can give you the confidence you need. You might even inspire someone else to start!

6. Celebrate Every Bit of Progress. Every chord you play, every song you learn, every breakthrough you make – celebrate it! 

The Benefits of Learning Music as an Adult

It’s more rewarding than you might imagine.

• Relaxation and Stress Relief. Instead of scrolling reels or TikToks and binge-watching another Netflix series after a long day, you could be singing along to your favorite songs or strumming calming melodies. It’s better for your soul, I promise.
• An Opportunity to Meet New People. New friends and new relationships with everyone from your music teacher to fellow learners, music enthusiasts, and the larger community of musicians as a whole.
• Better Physical Health. From my own experience, I would say that playing an instrument helps with posture, coordination, flexibility, and lung strength (hello, singers and flautists!). It also improves focus, strengthens your mind, and promotes neuroplasticity in your brain.
• A Mental Health Lifeline. Music gives you a way to express yourself and escape the noise of daily life. It’s healing. Many adults I know say it helped them through tough times, especially when words weren’t enough.
• Leading by Example. Learning music yourself is a great way to encourage your kids. It shows them that learning doesn’t stop at school and that it’s okay to be a beginner at any age.
• And Most of All—It’s Fun. Seriously. That moment you finally get through an entire song without stopping? Magic.

I hope that I assured you that it’s possible with practice and hard work.

Visit Everest Music to explore beginner-friendly guitars, ukuleles, and more. We’d love to help you get started.