What instrument is easiest to learn to play improvisationally?

Question

Ideally I'd like an instrument that's as natural and direct as singing. (A kazoo is obvious, but its sound is too loud & unpleasant in my opinion.)

How long does it take to reach a level of proficiency on a musical instrument that allows you to express the notes in your head without having to think anymore about where to place your fingers, etc.?

Answer 1

Ultimately you have to know how to play any instrument very well to improvise. Especially an instrument like the guitar, violin, mandolin, piano...etc. You have to know scales by heart and where every note is. This takes some lucky people not too much time, but for the majority of people who want to be proficient at an instrument it takes years. A woodwind instrument is probably the closest to the voice or the harmonica.

Answer 2

I suggest something like a flute or another wind instrument. This is only because you can only play one note at a time and don't have to worry about if the notes you are playing will clash (such as on a piano).

I was a little confused about what you were asking, so if this does not help, I'm sorry :(

Answer 3

kazoo

Answer 4

drum

Answer 5

harmonica