I started with a Mouth Organ as a lad, had a brief period of Clarinet lessons then learned Scottish Pipes. Went back to Clarinet playing Jazz, added Saxes, then discovered Folk. Obvious first Folk Instrument was Whistle (Tommy Makem with the Clancy's) then on to Guitar, Banjo,(Duo with Other Vocals/Guitarist) then got a cheap mandolin. Added Tenor Banjo to 5 String, then got the Banjola. I still say whistle is the ONLY one I CAN play, just get by with the others, but I LOVE the banjola. Its the one i take out to Folk Clubs
more than any thing else.