I play guitar. I got into it, mainly as a crutch to assure myself that I was singing on key among the improvised harmonies I'd often encounter. Gradually, though, (seven and a half years now) I've come to appreciate that it can make me sound a lot better on most songs.

I'm more curious about what instruments people like to hear others playing. For example:

I once played with a harmonica player who had big harmonicas, each 7-8 inches, which he claimed cost $40 - $50 US each, and which he could play so mellowly that they didn't interfere with the singing, the way most harmonicas do if they are used continuously. Does anyone know why the harmonicas would be so expensive? Natural reeds instead of metal?

The same guy also had what looked like a barber's brush to play his bodhran. I was so used to cringing when someone picked up a bodhran, but this guy could not only play well, he could play softer than the guitars if he wanted to.

The most interesting instrument I've seen was a bowed saw. It's IMPOSSIBLE to sing with, but incredible to sit back and listen to for one or two songs.

My favourite instrument to see in a crowd is a mandolin. A player with a light, thoughtful touch can add a bright sound to most folk songs.