In a tight race, the piano cemented its place in the hearts of music enthusiasts taking out #2 with the violin following close behind at #3. At the other end of the scale. the Triangle held position 80. A Typewriter came in at 85. At 91 was the classical bushies’ favourite, the gum-leaf and dead last came the Keytar.
Head to the ABC Classic website to check out the complete top 100.
Known for its warm, rich and lyrical tone, the cello was a unanimous favourite with voters and has just been crowned Australia’s favourite instrument, which is something we can all celebrate.
Over the past two months, ABC Classic asked Australians to vote for their favourite instruments culminating in an epic two-day countdown, which accumulated over 171,000 votes for 327 instruments.
The diversity of sound during the ABC Classic 100 was spectacular. From the glockenspiel to the alphorn, the erhu to the taiko, the didgeridoo to the cowbell, instruments from all musical cultures and traditions, including classical, jazz, pop, folk and everything in between.
Considering why the question “What is your favourite instrument?” was so popular with audiences, ABC Classic Breakfast presenter Dr Megan Burslem shares: “This question became one of identity, history and cultural connection; an exploration of the tapestry of musical experiences that make up your life.”
ABC Classic and ABC Jazz Content Manager Kat McGuffie adds: “This year, we went on a journey that expanded our musical horizons and connected with audiences far and wide. We listened differently and drew upon the stories of our team and listeners to create a shared experience of connecting and celebrating the best music of all time.”
Celebrations for the Classic 100 are set to continue! This year’s Classic 100 will be performed live by the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, celebrating many of the instruments in the top 100. Performances will take place at Hamer Hall on June 22 and 23 (further information + tickets here) and will be broadcast on ABC TV, ABC iview, ABC Classic and ABC listen on June 24 at 7:30pm.
Relive the ABC Classic 100 now via the ABC listen app. For more info and stats about the countdown, head to the ABC Classic 100 website or follow us on socials via Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.
ABC Classic extends a big thank you to our devoted music-loving audience whose passion, participation and dedication made this year’s countdown an unforgettable experience. Thank you for listening, voting, and tuning in to the Classic 100.
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being an ABC Classic tragic, I was glued to the radio all weekend and absolutely loved the whole thing. Great selections of music to illustrate the various instruments and I loved that examples came from Mozart to Elgar, to Ella Fitzgerald, to Kiss and multiple game show and soundtrack pieces. Well done to all concerned!
Wendy Jane