Instruments for Left-Handers – What’s Different and What to Look For

Playing music is a joy for many – but for left-handers, getting started can be challenging, as most musical instruments are designed for right-handed players. Fortunately, many instruments are now available in left-handed versions or can be adapted accordingly.

Guitars and Basses

With guitars and basses, handedness matters a lot. Left-handed guitars are mirror-inverted versions, with reversed string order, nut and bridge adjustments, and flipped fretboard markers. Simply restringing a right-handed guitar is not recommended, as it negatively affects intonation and playability.

String Instruments

Instruments like violins or cellos are asymmetrical. A true left-handed version requires a complete redesign – including internal components like the bass bar and sound post. These are rare and often made to order.

Wind Instruments

Some woodwind instruments like recorders exist in left-handed versions with modified finger hole placements. Brass instruments such as the French horn are traditionally played with the left hand and thus naturally suit left-handers. Other brass instruments are designed for right-hand use but can be learned by left-handers with practice.

Keyboard Instruments

Pianos and keyboards are structurally symmetrical, but the right hand typically plays the melody. Special left-handed pianos with reversed key arrangements do exist, but they are very rare and not widely available.

Percussion

Drum kits can be easily adjusted for left-handers by mirroring the setup of drums and cymbals – allowing an ergonomic and natural playing experience.

Conclusion: Today, many musical instruments are available for left-handed players – or can be modified for comfort and ergonomics. Early guidance and professional advice help find the right setup for every left-handed musician.