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Best Melodica | Buying Guide : Things to consider while buying a Melodica

When it comes to melodica, there’s a large number of choices from a wide range of brands. Therefore, choosing the best melodica for the money can be somewhat tricky. However, we’ve included everything that you need to know in this article.

Size and Octaves

Melodicas are available in two or three octaves. Many beginner versions will only have two or two and a half octaves. The best melodica for advanced players has three octaves. If you are looking for a beginner instrument that’s simple to play and for melodic lines, two octaves are enough. For those seeking an advanced instrument, look for one with three octaves. Three octaves will allow you to play a wider variety of chords throughout the instrument’s range.

Melodica Voice Ranges

Melodicas come in the following voice ranges:

• Soprano – Has the highest range and are among the most commonly used melodica type. You play them with both hands. One hand plays the white keys and the other plays the black keys. Many come with an extension tube that lets you lay the instrument flat and play with both hands.
• Alto – Slightly lower in range but are nearly as common as soprano melodicas. You can play with both hands or with one hand like a tenor melodica.
• Tenor – Provides a lower range that offers a deeper sound. You play with one hand and hold a handle with the other. Many models allow the player to rest the melodica on a flat surface and play the keys with both hands.
• Bass – Lower in range and far less common that soprano, alto, and tenor melodicas.

Melodica Construction Materials

Most melodicas consist of plastic, but some say the best melodica consists of wood. There are many high-quality plastic options available. But some musicians prefer the deeper tone of wood. High-quality instruments of each material are available, but plastic is more common. Remember, you don’t need to pay extra for a wooden melodica to get a high-quality instrument.

Best Way to Use a Melodica?

The best melodica you choose will depend on how you want to use your instrument. Whether you want one instrument or several for a class, your intended use should lead your purchasing decision.

• For Beginner Musicians – A simple, two-octave melodica is the best starting choice for beginners. It allows you to learn the mechanics of the instrument without spending excessive money on an advanced model.
• For Advanced Use – A higher-quality, three-octave instrument is best for advanced musicians. Instruments with finer construction tend to have a higher price tag. However, the resonant sound is worth the expense if you plan to use the instrument for years.
• For Group Settings – If you plan to use melodicas with a group, get one in each voice range. Having an alto, soprano, tenor and bass melodica allows you to play a wider range of music as a group. When shopping for soprano or alto melodicas for a group, choose a softer tone. This will help control the noise when your group plays all their instruments together.
• For Solo Playing – If you plan to use your melodica as a solo instrument, the tone quality is your deciding factor. Choose a melodica with a clear, resonant tone to play melodic lines and accompanying chords.

Prerequisites to Playing a Melodica

Melodicas are a great beginner instrument for children and adults who have never played an instrument before. They combine the aspects of wind and keyboard instruments to provide a well-rounded education. Before learning the melodica, you should have some background experience in piano.

It will help you feel comfortable with reading music. You’ll be more comfortable playing notes with your right hand before you add the breathing component, too. While not required, piano experience will make your transition to playing the melodica easier.