May

National Buy A Musical Instrument Day May 22

National Buy A Musical Instrument Day May 22

Imagine a day dedicated not just to the joy of music, but to the very tools that make it possible. National Buy a Musical Instrument Day, celebrated on May 22 each year, might not have ancient roots or a story shrouded in mystery, but its significance is undeniable in a world where music forms a universal language. This day, believed to have been created to boost music education and instrument sales, serves as a reminder of the power of music to unite, educate, and inspire. From the earliest instruments crafted from bones and shells to the sophisticated digital devices of today, musical instruments have been pivotal in cultural expression and human connection. National Buy a Musical Instrument Day offers a unique opportunity for novices and maestros alike to add a new instrument to their collection, encouraging the spread of musical literacy and the joy that comes from playing an instrument. Whether you're a seasoned musician or someone who's always dreamed of picking up an instrument but never did, this day is a call to action—a chance to step into the vast, melodious world of music.

Key Takeaway

National Buy a Musical Instrument Day is observed on May 22 each year to promote music education and instrument sales.
The history of musical instruments dates back to ancient civilizations, with evidence of their use found in archaeological sites worldwide. They have played a vital role in cultural expression, education, and social gatherings throughout history.

Timeline

1500
Arrival of European musical instruments
European musical instruments, such as viols, lutes, and recorders, begin to influence music in the Americas.
1720
Invention of the pianoforte
Bartolomeo Cristofori, an Italian instrument maker, invents the pianoforte, a new type of keyboard instrument that will become very popular in the following centuries.
1810
Development of the guitar
The modern guitar begins to take shape, with improvements to the instrument's design and construction that make it louder and more versatile.
1870
Birth of the saxophone
Adolphe Sax, a Belgian instrument maker, patents the saxophone, a new type of woodwind instrument that becomes popular in jazz and popular music.
1900
Rise of the brass band
Brass bands become popular in the United States, with groups such as the Salvation Army and John Philip Sousa's band gaining widespread acclaim.
1930
Electric guitars and amplifiers
The first electric guitars and amplifiers are developed, allowing musicians to play louder and with greater sustain and distortion.
1950
Rock and roll
Rock and roll music emerges, with the electric guitar as a central instrument, and becomes a major cultural force in the following decades.
1960
Folk music revival
A folk music revival takes place, with many people taking up traditional instruments such as the acoustic guitar, banjo, and mandolin.
1970
Synthesizers and electronic music
Synthesizers and other electronic instruments become more widely available, leading to the development of new genres of music such as disco, techno, and hip-hop.
1980
Drum machines and samplers
Drum machines and samplers become popular, allowing musicians to create complex beats and loops using digital technology.
1990
Rise of the DJ
DJs become prominent figures in popular music, using turntables and other equipment to mix and manipulate recorded music in real time.
2000
Digital audio workstations
Digital audio workstations (DAWs) become widely used, allowing musicians to create and produce music on computers and other digital devices.
2010
Mobile music-making
Mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets become popular platforms for music-making, with a wide range of apps and accessories available for creating and recording music on the go.

Day Activities

  1. Morning Melodies: Kick off National Buy a Musical Instrument Day with a visit to local music shops. Many stores host special events, offering mini-concerts or hands-on demos. It's a golden chance to get up close and personal with instruments you've dreamed of playing. Who knows? You might find yourself strumming a guitar or tickling the ivories before noon!

  2. Afternoon Adventures: After grabbing a bite, why not join a workshop? Many communities organize free or low-cost sessions where pros share tips on choosing the right instrument. Whether you're eyeing a violin or a set of drums, these workshops can demystify the selection process, ensuring you make a sound choice.

  3. Evening Encore: Cap off the day by attending a local concert or open mic night. These events not only showcase the talents of seasoned musicians but also offer a platform for beginners. It's a heartwarming reminder of the joy and community music brings into our lives, encouraging everyone to keep the rhythm going long after the day ends.

Why We Love This Day

  • Encourages musical exploration
    Hey, ever thought about picking up a guitar or tickling the ivories? National Buy a Musical Instrument Day on May 22 is the perfect excuse to finally do it! This day isn't just about shelling out cash for a new instrument; it's a nudge for folks of all ages to explore music in a hands-on way. Whether you're a seasoned musician looking to add to your collection or a newbie ready to start your musical journey, there's no better time to dive in. Plus, trying out different instruments can be a blast, helping you find the one that really speaks to you.

  • Supports local businesses and music education
    Let's face it, local music shops and educators are the unsung heroes of the music world. National Buy a Musical Instrument Day shines a spotlight on these pillars of our communities, encouraging us to support them by investing in instruments and lessons. It's a win-win: you get to learn something new and exciting, and they get the support they need to keep offering their invaluable services. Plus, learning to play an instrument has all sorts of benefits, from boosting your brain power to giving you a cool new way to express yourself.

  • Fosters community and connection
    Music has this incredible power to bring people together, and what better way to celebrate that than by getting your own instrument on May 22? Whether you're jamming in your garage, performing at a local open mic night, or just playing for friends and family, music creates a sense of community and connection that's hard to beat. And let's not forget, sharing your musical journey with others can lead to lifelong friendships and unforgettable experiences. So, why not take the plunge and see where music can take you?

Past & Future Dates

MonthDayYear
MAY222022
MAY222023
MAY222024
MAY222025
MAY222026
MAY222027
MAY222028

FAQ

Which day is good for buying musical instruments?

Observed every year on 22nd May is National Buy A Musical Instrument Day.

Is there a National instrument day?

Each year on May 22nd we observe National Buy a Musical Instrument Day.



Also Happens on May 22

Public Holidays on May 22

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Religious Observances on May 22

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On This Day in History — May 22

  • 2017 — 22 people are killed at an Ariana Grande concert in the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing.
  • 2015 — The Republic of Ireland becomes the first nation in the world to legalize gay marriage in a public referendum.
  • 2014 — General Prayut Chan-o-cha becomes interim leader of Thailand in a military coup d'état, following six months of political turmoil.
  • 2014 — An explosion occurs in Ürümqi, the capital of China's far-western Xinjiang region, resulting in at least 43 deaths and 91 injuries.
  • 2012 — Tokyo Skytree opens to the public. It is the tallest tower in the world (634 m), and the second tallest man-made structure on Earth, after Burj Khalifa (829.8 m).
  • 2011 — An EF5 tornado strikes Joplin, Missouri, killing 162 people and wreaking $2.8 billion in damage—the costliest and seventh-deadliest single tornado in U.S. history.

More about history on this day →

Notable Births on May 22

  • 1999 — Camren Bicondova, American actress
  • 1994 — Florian Luger, Austrian male model
  • 1991 — Joel Obi, Nigerian footballer
  • 1991 — Suho, South Korean singer (EXO) and actor
  • 1987 — Novak Djokovic, Serbian tennis player
  • 1987 — Arturo Vidal, Chilean footballer

Notable Deaths on May 22

  • 2017 — Nicky Hayden, American professional motorcycle racer (b. 1981)
  • 2016 — Velimir "Bata" Živojinović, Serbian actor and politician (b. 1933)
  • 2015 — Marques Haynes, American basketball player and coach (b. 1926)
  • 2015 — Vladimir Katriuk, Ukrainian-Canadian SS officer (b. 1921)
  • 2013 — Sigurd Ottovich Schmidt, Russian historian and ethnographer (b. 1922)
  • 2013 — Lee Rigby, British fusilier

Sports on May 22

  • WNBA: Golden State Valkyries @ New York Liberty Scheduled
  • WNBA: Toronto Tempo @ Minnesota Lynx Scheduled
  • MLB: Athletics @ Los Angeles Angels Scheduled
  • MLB: Colorado Rockies @ Arizona Diamondbacks Scheduled
  • WNBA: Los Angeles Sparks @ Phoenix Mercury Scheduled
  • Formula 1: ? @ Lenovo Canadian GP Scheduled

All sports schedules for May 22 →