I play two musical instruments: piano and standup bass. Both of these instruments are very large and unweildy. I have a portable keyboard, but even that is pretty big.

I want to learn a smaller instrument. The harmonica seems pretty small. However I kind of hate country/bluesy type music. However apparently in east asia, the harmonica is a classical instrument? What do you people think?

I saw this great beatboxer use a harmonica in one of his sets and it was amazing.

Sure why not? Its how you use it creativily that counts

The next logical instrument to pick up is Trumpet. Or Mandolin. I'm sorry if you don't like those choices, but they're the only ones you can take.

What are you trying to accomplish? Playing while walking around? Busking? I think traditional "doesn't look like an idiot playing solo" instruments are guitar, clarinet, sax, flute... that may be it.

But if you want to be able to play the instrument at parties to entertain people, it's all about piano. If the host has one, you can just start playing. :)

the skin flute is teh gay

I just want something I can play when I'm traveling, which seems to be more often these days.

Try packing a piano.

The harmonica is great. I like blues best but the classical and irish is excellent too.

There's always the bagpipes.

The harmonica is annoying unless you can play it like Stevie Wonder.

http://www.brendan-power.com/Music%20Clips/New%20Irish%20Harmonica/Silver%20Spear.mp3.mp3

I think the harmonica is a great choice. A bit on the messy side, but great if you don't mind the drool.