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!
Types of musical instruments for kids
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.
12 Musical Instruments for Kids in Singapore
The Hape Learn with Lights Electronic Ukulele is an engaging and educational musical instrument designed for young children, typically aged 3 and above. This innovative toy features real, tunable strings and flashing lights along the fretboard, guiding little ones to play melodies by following the illuminated notes.
Price: $79.90
Where to Buy: Lazada
The Rainmaker Rain Stick is a captivating musical instrument designed to introduce young children to the world of sound and rhythm. By turning the tube over, children can observe and listen as colorful beads cascade through internal channels, mimicking the soothing sound of rainfall. This auditory experience not only delights but also aids in developing sensory and motor skills. Its engaging design makes it an excellent addition to any early learning environment.
Price: $8.00
Where to Buy: Shopee
The Hape Blues Harmonica is a delightful 10-hole wooden wind instrument designed for young beginners. Crafted from beechwood and coated with a non-toxic, edible wax, it’s safe for little hands and mouths. The harmonica features widely spaced, numbered notes, making it easy for children to learn and play. Its compact size and vibrant colors make it an engaging introduction to music for toddlers and preschoolers.
Price: $18.62
Where to Buy: Lazada
The 8-Key Mini Kalimba is a compact and portable thumb piano, perfect for beginners and children. Crafted from mahogany, it offers a warm, resonant sound and is easy to play with its 8 metal tines. Its small size makes it ideal for on-the-go music enjoyment and a thoughtful gift for young music enthusiasts.
Price: $3.90
Where to Buy: Lazada
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.
Price: $59.90
Where to Buy: Shopee
The Hape Playful Piano is a beautifully crafted 18-key wooden instrument designed to introduce young children to the joy of music. Its compact size and vibrant design make it an ideal choice for budding musicians aged 3 and up.
Price: $119.90
Where to Buy: Shopee
The 37-Key Electronic Keyboard Piano for Children in Pink is an excellent choice for young aspiring musicians. Its compact design, vibrant color, and engaging features make it both fun and educational. With 37 keys, it’s perfectly sized for small hands, allowing children to explore melodies and rhythms comfortably. Many models come equipped with built-in songs, various instrument sounds, and interactive lights, enhancing the learning experience.
Price: $21.43
Where to Buy: Lazada
For young beginners in Singapore, selecting the right violin size is crucial to ensure comfort and proper technique.Typically, a 1/8 size violin suits children aged 4–6 years with a height of approximately 90–105 cm, while a 1/4 size violin is ideal for those aged 5–7 years, around 100–115 cm tall.
Price: $47.65
Where to Buy: Lazada
The WS-858 Karaoke Microphone is perfect for kids thanks to its fun, all-in-one design that combines mic and speaker. It’s easy to use with simple buttons and Bluetooth connectivity for sing-along sessions. Lightweight and portable, it’s great for playdates or solo performances. Plus, the built-in rechargeable battery keeps the music going without fuss.
Price: $18.80
Where to Buy: Lazada
The 10-piece Musical Toys Percussion Instruments Band Rhythm Kit is an excellent choice for young children, offering a variety of instruments like tambourines, maracas, castanets, handbells, and a wooden guiro. This set encourages early musical exploration, helping kids develop rhythm, coordination, and auditory skills. The instruments are designed with child-friendly materials, ensuring safety and durability during play.
Price: $16.19
Where to Buy: Lazada
The Wind Instrument Toy Bugle Horn, along with toy saxophones and trumpets, offers an engaging introduction to music for young children. These instruments are designed to be lightweight, colorful, and easy to handle, making them ideal for toddlers and preschoolers. They help develop motor skills, rhythm, and auditory recognition, fostering early musical interest and creativity.
Price: $10.44
Where to Buy: Lazada
The 15-Key Glockenspiel Xylophone is an excellent musical instrument for children, offering a vibrant and engaging way to introduce them to the world of music. With its colorful keys and clear tones, it not only captivates young minds but also aids in developing auditory skills and hand-eye coordination. The instrument’s design ensures safety and durability, making it suitable for toddlers and young children.
Price: $10.44
Where to Buy: Lazada
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
