The Most Skilled Multi-Instrumentalists
There’s talent, and then there’s talent. Learning how to play one instrument is already an achievement in itself – can you imagine being able to play 11 or 17? There are also many benefits that come with multi-instrumentalism: a better understanding of music theory, being able to cover a missing band member and an enhanced music listening experience, to name a few. As an establishment which offers both singing and music lessons in Guernsey, School of Popular Music has put together a list of the most skilled multi-instrumentalists today.
Beck
This gifted singer-songwriter is certainly no loser – he can play a stunning total of over 10 instruments, all of which he arranged and played himself on one of his latest albums Morning Phase. The latter included the ukulele, acoustic guitar, glockenspiel, piano and synthesizer, amongst many others. His artistry was recognised when Morning Phase won Album of the Year at the 2015 Grammy Awards.
Trent Reznor
Even outside his work for Nine Inch Nails, Reznor is renowned for involvement in a multitude of different musical projects. Aside from providing vocals on many of his songs, he can also play more than 13 instruments, including lesser known ones such as the tuba, harpsichord, mellotron and marimba.
St. Vincent
Listen to any album by this this indie queen and you’ll hear a variety of different sounds and harmonies. Credited under her real name (Annie Clark) are the guitar, synthesizer, xylophone, triangle and the Moog.
Johnny Greenwood
Every member of Radiohead is impressive in their own way, and Greenwood is certainly no exception. Ostensibly the lead guitarist for the band, he has however referred to the guitar as nothing more than a simple tool, preferring to experiment with other instruments which receive less acclaim. To date, he is known to play the viola, recorder, harmonica, the organ and others including percussion instruments.
PJ Harvey
Harvey’s musical genius extends well beyond her lyrics and her voice – there’s a long, long list of musical equipment that she can play. Besides the piano, bass and the violin, she’s also pretty good with the saxophone, the cello and the trumpet. In her 2010 album Let England Shake, she even wrote and produced songs that featured the autoharp.
If you fancy trying your hand at any instrument or becoming one of the best multi-instrumentalists, contact us at the School of Popular Music for music lessons in Guernsey. Even if you know how to play one already, it’s never too late in life to learn something new! Our instructors can offer the best in guitar, piano, or violin lessons Guernsey has to offer.