More than a third of British musicians say that playing an instrument improves their mood

Meanwhile, 35 percent of musicians say playing improves their mood, while nearly one in three (31 percent) feel more relaxed.

Three in ten feel instantly more positive when picking up their instrument, and 29 percent feel inspired to be more creative.

Sandeep Jassi of Allianz Musical Insurance, who commissioned the survey, said: “Playing a musical instrument has many benefits, one of which is improving your mood.

“They provide a sense of escapism that’s hard to find elsewhere, so it’s no wonder people turn to instruments for relaxation and happiness.”

The research also found that one in four (26 per cent) are more likely to play their instrument after a stressful day at work, while 22 per cent will play when they have money worries.

Another 22 percent find that they cope better with an injury or illness when playing a tune.

And those who are musically inclined spend an average of four hours a week playing their instrument, with a quarter saying it is their most prized possession.

Sadly, however, 24 percent of musicians have had their instrument stolen, and a large number have been emotionally affected by the loss.

Nearly four in ten said they were devastated by this loss, with 22 percent saying they would feel “lost” or “empty” if their instrument went missing.

However, an encouraging 42 percent did get their lost item back.

Reaching out to family and friends (50 percent), returning to last known location (47 percent), and asking for CCTV footage (40 percent), were some of the top efforts people made to repossess.

The research was carried out to celebrate the launch of a new website which allows musicians across the UK to register lost, stolen and found instruments online for free.

Various musicians have parted ways with their instruments over the years, and many have made headlines in musical history.

Famously, Paul McCartney had his Hofner Violin bass stolen in 1969, and Eric Clapton was also a victim in 1966 when his Gibson Les Paul guitar was stolen.

Sandeep Jassi added: “It’s clear how much instruments can mean to their owners, so it’s really sad to see the impact it can have when stolen.

“We understand that instruments are not only an invaluable tool of the trade for a professional musician, but also often have great personal and sentimental value.

“That’s why we’re committed to reuniting as many musicians as possible with their beloved lost instruments.”

The OnePoll research also surveyed 1,000 adults, who do not play a musical instrument, to gauge their opinions on the subject.

It turned out that 28 percent admit that being able to play one would help them relax, while a quarter say they would generally be happier if they could use an instrument.

And 41 percent admit they envy people who can play an instrument, with 29 percent having this on their “wish list.”

However, one in four (26 percent) have previously tried to learn one, only to give up after a short period of picking it up.

The instruments people would most like to learn are guitar (38 percent), piano (34 percent), and drums (16 percent).