A keyboard is a Western electronic instrument with black and white keys, while a veenai is a traditional Indian string instrument, typically a four-stringed lute with a large resonator. Both are used for playing music, but they differ in their design and playing technique. Children can learn both instruments, with the keyboard featuring a repeating pattern of notes (A-G) and the veenai requiring plucking and string manipulation with the fingers.

Keyboard

Description: An electronic instrument with white and black keys that produce notes.
Notes: The white keys are named A, B, C, D, E, F, and G, which repeat across the keyboard.
Playing: You press a key to play a note.
Styles: Can play various styles, including Western classical, pop, jazz, and rock.

Veenai

Description: A traditional Indian string instrument with a large resonator, a long neck, and frets.
Notes: Players use the fretboard to play different notes and manipulate the strings for different sounds.
Playing: The player plucks the strings with their fingers and can also pull the strings horizontally and vertically.
Styles: Primarily used for Carnatic music, a form of Indian classical music.

Learning for children

Keyboard: Can be a good starting point for children, as it's easy to produce a sound by pressing keys.
Veenai: Also suitable for children, with online and offline lessons available.
Beginner instruments: Small, handcrafted wooden veenai instruments are available for children, and lessons can start from a beginner level.
No age restriction: There is no age restriction for learning, and it is important for children to have fun while learning.