Musical Instruments

Musical Instruments has over 280 instruments for babies, toddlers and young musicians. There are about 110 drum and percussion lines, including toddler drum kits, jazz drum sets, xylophones and tambourines. Nearly 100 are pianos and keyboards, from floor piano mats to 61-key keyboards with microphones. You'll also find around 55 guitars and string instruments such as ukuleles and beginner acoustic guitars, plus a few wind instruments and accessories.

Choosing by age

• Babies and toddlers – Montessori wooden music sets, shakers and baby drums. Of the instruments with an age grade, about 29% are for under-3s.
• Preschool – keyboards with microphones, drum kits and piano mats. About 68% of the range starts at 3 years.
• Older beginners – full-size ukuleles, guitars and 61-key keyboards.

Brands and prices

The range draws on many specialist makers, including M SANMERSEN, MusicForset, Hape, Loog guitars and Love&Mini. Instruments start at £19 and the median is £57; most cost £28 to £98, VAT included.

Shakers, batteries and volume

Shakers and small percussion pieces can contain beads, so check the age grade for babies. Electronic keyboards and toy drums with lights may use button cell batteries, so make sure compartments are screwed shut. Keep the volume at a comfortable level for small ears.

FAQs

What size ukulele suits a child?

Soprano ukuleles (about 53cm long) are the usual starting size for children, and the listing gives the length.

Do keyboards come with a power adaptor?

Some run on batteries and some include a USB or mains adaptor. Check the listing for power details before you order.

Can I return an instrument?

Yes. Send it back within 30 days with postage paid by us, and we'll refund you within 14 days of it arriving.

For anything else, head to categories or brands. More learning toys are in Learning & Education, and little performers may enjoy Puppets & Puppet Theatres.