Piano or violin for 4 years old

[Mum214]

DD(4) is interested in learning piano or violin. I play violin, so it’s easier for me to support her and I believe orchestral instruments may bring a lot of opportunities in the future (older DCs enjoy NCO & JD and they are fantastic!) but piano is also good for children to learn basics and she is slightly more interested in piano because it’s easier to make good sound. We don’t want her to start two instruments at the same time.
Any opinions are welcome!

Lots of good suggestions here! I'm a pianist by profession and started having formal lessons at 5. I agree with previous posters that singing, general music classes etc. are really, really valuable.
You mentioned the LSO family concerts — you might also like the family days at the Royal Opera House. There are a few coming up in July. Lots of fun activities — interactive concerts, crafts, dance etc.

Cello would go well if you already have violin and viola in your family!

I am a clarinettist. I would say the flute is unlikely to work before about age 8 or 9. You need enough puff and also long arms (even for a curved mouthpiece). Lots learn the recorder first to get some basics of wind playing (like not breathing in the middle of a phrase). Fingerings is vaguely similar, but as the flute it keyed, the similarities are limited and the fingering is really not the most difficult thing to learn. It's the embouchure! Would be a shame to put someone off the flute by getting them started too young.

One of mine started flute at 6 but she was very tall /long armed and size matters. Cellos, like violins, come in fractional sizes and personally i think the small cellos sound better than the small violins.
If i had another child id lean towards starting with percussion though, a good understanding of pulse and rhythm are soooo valuable

Percussion is obvs great, but I couldn't accommodate the kit in my house and it can be very loud!

Thats true glovesick

The bongos, djembe and congas are less in ypur face volume wise but it all takes up a lot of space..

I think what matters is to find the right teacher. One who uses a suitable method and is good with young children.

The instrument doesn't matter much at this point. She can always take up the other one (as well, or instead) in two or three years.

either is good.

if you have a piano I'd start with that, much easier.
I'd let her try both then she can decide which she prefers

I do Suzuki piano with my 3yo - he has days when he won't give me the time of day, but other days when he'll happily play little bits and bobs.