Are you tired of your kids spending hours glued to their screens, playing the latest mobile game or streaming endless videos? Well, it's time to shake things up and introduce them to the magical world of musical instruments!
Here in Singapore, we've got plenty of options to choose from, whether you're looking for a miniature guitar, a kid-friendly keyboard, or even a tiny drum set.
And don't worry if you're not a musical genius yourself — with the right guidance and a bit of practice, your little ones will be jamming like rock stars in no time.
As parents, it's now time to explore some of the best musical instruments for kids that Singapore has to offer.
We've scoured the city to bring you the top picks, so whether your child is a budding Beethoven or a mini Mozart, there's sure to be something here that will strike a chord with them.
So grab your earplugs and get ready to unleash your kid's inner virtuoso with our list of musical instruments. It's time to make some noise!
[product-comparison-table title="6 Musical Instruments for Kids in Singapore"]
Types of musical instruments for kids
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Learning musical instruments names and their types is the first step in understanding how to play them. It's important for music students to be able to recognise musical instruments names by sight and sound.
List of musical instruments types
Here are six types of musical instruments that are perfect for kids:
- Percussion instruments: Firstly, these types of musical instruments are easy for kids to learn and play with, as they involve striking or shaking to produce sound. Examples include tambourines, maracas, and drums.
- Keyboards: Secondly, these types of musical instruments (eg. electronic keyboards or pianos) are a great choice for kids, as they offer a range of sounds and can be played with both hands.
- Recorders: Thirdly, these types of musical instruments are easy to learn and play. The recorder is perfect for young children. They can learn to play simple tunes and develop their breath control.
- Harmonicas: Basically this is another easy-to-learn wind instrument. Generally, the harmonica is small and portable, making it great for kids to take anywhere. These types of musical instruments are also relatively inexpensive.
- Ukuleles: Additionally, they are great for kids, as they are small and lightweight, making them easy to hold and play with. Plus, they come in a range of fun colours and designs.
- Singing: Don't forget the most accessible instrument of all — the voice! At any rate, encourage your kids to sing along to their favourite songs or even try writing their own lyrics. Basically, it's a great way to develop their musical skills and confidence.
There are so many musical instruments names to learn when studying music theory, it can be overwhelming at first.
But your kids will get along if they have it in their own hands!
Who knows? Your kids might love to quiz you on different musical instruments names while you both play or listen to them.
6 Musical Instruments for Kids in Singapore
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Best ukelele musical instruments for kids
[caption id="attachment_494540" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Little Maestros: The Best Musical Instruments for Kids in Singapore[/caption]
The Hape Learn with Lights Ukulele is an excellent way for kids to learn to play this classic instrument. With four strings and six songs to learn, kids can quickly get started making music.
Features we love:
- LED lights on the fretboard guide children's fingers to the right positions while playing
- Made of high-quality materials — wood and nylon strings
- The colourful design and sound effects add an element of fun to learning to play
Best rainstick musical instruments for kids
[caption id="attachment_494541" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Little Maestros: The Best Musical Instruments for Kids in Singapore[/caption]
The Treeyear Rainstick is a unique and fun percussion instrument that imitates the sound of falling rain. Kids will enjoy playing with this instrument and creating soothing, calming sounds.
Features we love:
- The easy-grip instrument makes sounds that are great for sensory development
- Child-safe paint finish and solid wood for your kids for long-lasting playing
- Easy for a toddler to hold and switch this toy into a shake-and-rattle activity
Best wind musical instruments for kids
[caption id="attachment_494542" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Little Maestros: The Best Musical Instruments for Kids in Singapore[/caption]
The Hape Blues Harmonica is an excellent way to introduce kids to the world of harmonicas. With its easy-to-play design and sturdy construction, this instrument is perfect for beginners.
Features we love:
- The perfect way to encourage your little one’s love of music while they experiment and play
- Sturdy and perfectly sized for young hands yet fully playable
- Specially spaced for little musicians
Best wooden musical instruments for kids
[caption id="attachment_494535" align="aligncenter" width="1149"] Little Maestros: The Best Musical Instruments for Kids in Singapore[/caption]
The Cega Mini Kalimba is a small thumb piano that produces a beautiful, melodic sound. With its simple design and easy-to-play keys, it's an excellent way for kids to learn to play music.
Features we love:
- Perfect for beginners
- Both adults and children can play
- Easy to learn with accessories
Best percussion musical instruments for kids
[caption id="attachment_494543" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Little Maestros: The Best Musical Instruments for Kids in Singapore[/caption]
The Hape Drum and Cymbal Set is an excellent way for kids to learn to play percussion instruments. With its sturdy construction and realistic sound, this set is perfect for kids who want to learn to play the drums.
Features we love:
- Each drum has a distinct tone
- Embossed sticks for small hands
- Easy assembly
Best keyboard musical instruments for kids
[caption id="attachment_494545" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Little Maestros: The Best Musical Instruments for Kids in Singapore[/caption]
The Hape Playful Piano Music is an excellent way for kids to learn to play the piano. With its colourful design and easy-to-use keys, this instrument is perfect for younger children.
Features we love:
- A perfect beginning instrument for little musicians with small hands and a desire to play
- This best-selling 18-key piano combines classic design and formality with youthful energy for a finished product
- Aesthetically pleasing and child-friendly
Price Comparison Table
Product
|
Prices in SGD
|
Hape Learn with Lights Ukulele
|
$59.90
|
Treeyear Rainstick
|
$8.63
|
Hape Blues Harmonica
|
$19.90
|
Cega Mini Kalimba
|
$32.93
|
Hape Drum and Cymbal Set
|
$59.90
|
Hape Playful Piano Music
|
$119.90
|
Note: Each item and price is up to date as of publication. However, an item may be sold out or the price may be different at a later date.
Benefits of musical instruments to kids
Wondering what your child can have when playing an instrument? Here's a list of benefits for your little one.
- Firstly, it improves cognitive development. Learning an instrument involves complex motor and cognitive skills, which can enhance brain function and improve memory, concentration, and problem-solving abilities.
- Secondly, it boosts confidence and self-esteem. As kids master new skills and perform in front of others, they gain a sense of achievement and build self-confidence.
- In general, it develops creativity. Playing an instrument allows kids to express themselves creatively and explore their own musical style.
- Additionally, it enhances social skills. Whether it's jamming with friends or performing in a band, music instruments provide opportunities for kids to collaborate, communicate, and build relationships with others.
- Moreover, it reduces stress and anxiety. Music instruments have been shown to have a calming effect on the mind and body, helping kids manage stress and anxiety in a healthy way.
So whether your child dreams of being the next musical superstar or just wants to strum a few chords on a ukulele, the benefits of music instruments are clear.
Give your little ones the gift of music and watch them grow into confident, creative, and well-rounded individuals.
Physical, mental and psychological effects on kids
Music has a powerful impact on children, influencing their physical, mental, and psychological well-being.
Music can stimulate brain development, improve academic performance, and promote emotional regulation.
- Physical Effects: Research has shown that music can improve a child's physical coordination and motor skills. Playing an instrument or dancing can help develop hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills, and gross motor skills.
Moreover, listening to music has been linked to reduced levels of cortisol, the hormone associated with stress.
- Mental Effects: Music has also been linked to improved cognitive function, such as memory and language skills. Learning to read music and play an instrument can improve a child's ability to concentrate and process information.
Additionally, music has been shown to improve academic performance, particularly in math and science.
- Psychological Effects: Music can have a profound effect on a child's emotional well-being. It has been shown to reduce anxiety, depression, and aggression.
Listening to music can also promote a sense of relaxation and calmness, which can aid in sleep and reduce stress levels.
Moreover, playing music with others can promote socialisation and communication skills. It can provide a sense of belonging and connection to others, leading to improved self-esteem and confidence.
In conclusion, music has numerous physical, mental, and psychological benefits for children.
Encouraging children to engage in music, whether it be through listening or playing, can lead to improved well-being and overall quality of life.
Where to buy instruments in Singapore?
Looking to buy music instruments for your little ones? Here are six places in Singapore where you can find a selection of music instruments for kids.
- City Music Store Singapore: This popular music store offers a variety of children's musical instruments, including guitars, keyboards, and drums. They also have a dedicated section for children's instruments, with options such as toy pianos and mini guitars.
- Swee Lee Music Store Singapore: With multiple locations across Singapore, Swee Lee is a one-stop shop for children's musical instruments. They offer a range of instruments for kids, from ukuleles to junior drum kits.
- Yamaha Music Store Singapore: Yamaha is a well-known brand in the world of music, and their stores in Singapore offer a range of children's musical instruments that are suitable for kids, including keyboards and guitars.
- Cristofori Music Store Singapore: This music store has been in Singapore for over 40 years and offers a range of instruments for all ages and skill levels. They have a dedicated section for children's musical instruments, which includes ukuleles, keyboards, and toy drums.
- Davis Guitar Music Centre: This Music Store Singapore specializes in guitars and offers a range of options for children's musical instruments, including 3/4 size acoustic guitars and electric guitars in fun colours.
- The Music Works: Located in the heart of Orchard Road, this Music Store Singapore offers a range of instruments for kids, including percussion children's musical instruments, ukuleles, and keyboards. They also offer music lessons for children of all ages.
No matter what music instruments your child is interested in, these six places in Singapore have got you covered.
DIY instruments you can play at home
Looking for a fun and creative way to introduce your kids to music? Try making your own for your kids!
Here are six ideas for easy-to-make instruments that your kids will love. Check out this list!
Tin Can Drum DIY Musical Instruments for Kids
How to create this DIY easiest instrument to play: Use an empty tin can and decorate it with colourful paper or paint. Then, cover one end of the can with a balloon and secure it with rubber bands.
Tap the balloon-covered end with your hands or drumsticks to create a drumming sound.
Straw Pan Flute DIY Musical Instruments for Kids
How to create this DIY easiest instrument to play: Cut several plastic straws to different lengths and tape them together in a row.
Blow across the tops of the straws to create different notes and experiment with different lengths to create different pitches.
Paper Plate Tambourine DIY Musical Instruments for Kids
How to create this DIY easiest instrument to play: Cut two paper plates in half and decorate them with markers or paint.
Staple or glue the halves together with dried beans or rice inside to create a tambourine that can be shaken or hit.
Rubber Band Guitar DIY Musical Instruments for Kids
How to create this DIY easiest instrument to play: Stretch several rubber bands around a shoebox or tissue box and strum them like a guitar.
Experiment with different rubber band sizes to create different pitches.
Water Xylophone DIY Musical Instruments for Kids
How to create this DIY easiest instrument to play: Fill several glasses with varying levels of water and use a spoon or chopstick to tap each glass to create a different pitch.
Add food colouring to the water for a colourful visual effect.
PVC Pipe Maracas DIY Musical Instruments for Kids
How to create this DIY easiest instrument to play: Cut PVC pipes into 6-inch sections and cap one end. Fill the pipes with rice, beans, or small beads, and then cap the other end.
Decorate with colourful tape or paint and shake to create a maraca sound.
This list is a great way to get your kids involved in music and spark their creativity.
Plus, they're easy to make with items you likely have around the house.
So, get ready to make some noise with your little ones and have fun creating your own unique instruments!
Chinese musical instruments for kids
Your child should be fascinated with Chinese musical instruments names. Check out this list of musical instruments from the Chinese culture your kids can learn anytime they want!
With this list, your little musician might be the next musicologist out there! One who specialises in etymology and its cultural significance, right?
- Guzheng: The guzheng is one of the traditional Chinese musical instruments that has a long history. Pluck the strings with the fingers or with a pick. It will register s a beautiful, flowing sound.
- Erhu: The erhu is one of the two-stringed Chinese musical instruments that is often called the Chinese violin. Got a rich and expressive sound. Plus, this is often used in traditional Chinese music.
- Dizi: The dizi is one of the Chinese musical instruments that has been used in Chinese music for centuries. It has a bright and clear tone, and it's relatively easy for kids to learn to play.
- Pipa: The pipa is one of the plucked string Chinese musical instruments that have pear-shaped bodies. Often used in Chinese opera. Moreover, it has a unique sound that's both bright and mellow.
- Yangqin: The yangqin is one of the hammered dulcimer Chinese musical instruments. It is played by striking the strings with small hammers. This has a bright and cheerful sound. Additionally, this is part of traditional Chinese music.
- Sheng: The shengs are traditional Chinese musical instruments that are mouth-blown and free-reed. Generally, this has a unique sound that's somewhere between an accordion and a harmonica.
Also read: Best Musical Instruments for Toddlers to Develop Their Brains