Human voice: Capable of great expression and meaning. Each has its own individual characteristics. Not always particularly loud, however, unless amplified. Only instrument with a readily apparent gender difference!

Guitar: Without a doubt the most versatile instrument. Can accompany voice. Can play backup chords or single string lead. Can be flatpicked or fingerpicked. Can be acoustic or electric. Is used across a variety of musical styles - gypsy jazz to classical to folk to bluegrass to rock. Most well-known virtuosos (Doc Watson, Chet Atkins, Jimmy Hendrix, etc.) are guitar players. Only downside - its so common as to be a cliche!

5-String Banjo: Can be bouncy and happy, or incredibly sad if playing the old mountain ballads (Pretty Polly, etc.) Can be too brash and noisy for some listeners. Tends to be associated with bad behaviour and bad jokes. Can be sung with.

Fiddle: Maddening to learn. Can play real fast - too fast, sometimes. Very expressive in the right hands. With practice you can sing and play, play and sing.