play THE violin vs play violin ??
I've heard both of these - play the violin/piano/ flute,
and
-play violin/piano/flute , without the article .

Is this something that has to do with the British English/ American English distinction, or ..?

Thank you .

Question

play THE violin vs  play violin ??
I've heard both of these - play the violin/piano/ flute,
 and 
                                          -play violin/piano/flute , without the article .

Is this something that has to do with the British English/ American English distinction, or ..?

Thank you .

Answer

I use either form. Generally if I'm feeling more formal I'll say Play THE piano. More casual - play piano. But it really depends on the situation. I agree with Ayman that if it's your profession you might prefer the 'play piano' form.

I don't think it's a British/American thing. We use either over here in the UK. I'm sure they do in the USA too. And let's not forget the Aussies and Kiwis and Canadians. Bet they use either too.

Answer

Both are correct, but using "the" is more common with musical instruments, but in American English, it is acceptable to say " I play piano" if you mean that it is your profession.

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