Best musical gifts for kids: A 2026 guide for little musicians

Every year we celebrate special moments with the little loved ones in our lives. Some are seasonal and some stay with us for a lifetime. From birthdays and graduations to festive occasions, we all love giving gifts that bring joy and put a smile on a child’s face.

No matter the trend or the hype, if you feel your child, niece, nephew, or a friend’s kid is ready to bring music into their life, look no further.

Before you buy anything else, take a moment to explore our top musical picks for young learners. These are gifts that inspire them to smile, strum, drum, and sing their hearts out with their new gear.

And the best part? Thomsun offers special deals throughout the year, thoughtfully crafted for young musicians just starting their journey.

1. Ukuleles

Why Ukuleles make great gifts

Ukuleles are a fantastic entry point into the world of music. They are budget-friendly, remarkably easy to pick up, and far less intimidating than larger instruments.

Because they only have four soft strings, mastering chords is a breeze for small hands and young minds. This low "stress factor" means kids can skip the frustration and go straight to playing their favorite songs for hours on end. It’s the ultimate confidence-booster for any budding musician!

The beginner Graffiti range from Flight is one of the most popular brands in this category. Its strong laminated top, paired with a durable plastic back for flight and, makes it ideal for the mischievous and the energetic. It also comes with a carry case, so kids can take their music wherever they go.

Fender offers a range of stylish ukuleles if you’re looking for a more modest, classy gift option.

2. Guitars

There is a world of possibility when it comes to guitars, and for good reason. Many of the world’s greatest musicians began their journey with a six string. Whether they were self-taught in their bedroom or playing in community bands, it remains one of the most versatile and approachable instruments available today.

Yamaha’s range of beginner friendly guitars, both steel string and classical, is very popular because of its reliable build quality. Fender is known for producing superior quality guitars for both young players and adults. They offer two great pathways. Fender is for those willing to invest a little more, while Squier affinity series  is perfect for budget-friendly seekers who still want that classic Fender feel.

A range of 1/2, 3/4, and full-size options are available across all three brands to suit your style, whether you prefer classical nylon strings or steel-string folk guitars. And if you’re looking to lift their mood in a slightly different way, check out Yamaha’s Guitaleles. If they want to rock hard, you can also choose from a range of beginner electric guitars, bass guitars and packages for young learners.

3. Drums and Percussions

How do you spot an emerging drummer? You’ll see them tapping everywhere with pencils and pens, secretly hoping someone notices their beat. For those playful kids who love making noise, there are plenty of options, from budget percussion instruments for kids by Percussion plus and  Nino to full acoustic drum kits for kids by Ludwig. And if you want to keep the neighbors happy, silent drum kits from Yamaha are also available to suit any home environment.

4. Keys

Keyboards can be an excellent start for both piano and keys, especially since beginner pianos can feel a bit risky for little ones who might change their minds often. You can choose from a selection of Yamaha keyboards, with the PRS E Series designed for educational purposes and the PSR F Seriesand PSS F Series made specifically for small hands.

Keyboards are an excellent starting point for learning both piano and general keys, especially since investing in a beginner piano can feel risky if your little ones are prone to changing their minds. You can choose from a selection of Yamaha keyboards, including the PSR E Series designed specifically for educational purposes, and the PSR F Series and PSS F Series, which are perfectly suited for small hands.

5. Violins

Not every musical family has a violinist hanging around, and frankly, instruments like guitars, drums, and keys are often the most fun instruments to start with. But violinists are different because they are precise and drawn to a more classical and disciplined approach. If a kid says, “I’d like to try the violin” here are two trusted options to consider.

 Yamaha’s V3SKA series is very popular for its long-lasting, superior tonality, while the Stentor 1400 Student Violin Outfit is a budget-friendly option that does not compromise on quality.

6. Recorders and Harmonicas

Recorders are among the most popular instruments for young musicians, as they provide a foundational step toward musicianship and are often encouraged in schools. Harmonicas can also be a delight for youngsters, as they do not require any special instruction to start playing. Yamaha YRS series recorders, along with Hohner’s Speedy Kids range harmonicas, let them jumpstart their musical journey in just a few minutes.

7. Educational books, subscriptions, or lessons

Finally, for the child who is already actively playing an instrument, or the one eager to learn but unsure where to start, educational materials are the perfect gifts. A tailored series of books or online resources can significantly boost their skills on their chosen instrument. You could also consider a subscription plan for online lessons offered by numerous music coaches, covering everything from instruments and singing to music production. If you prefer a more personal touch and a dedicated teacher-student environment, explore the lesson programs offered by Thomsun Music at our fully-equipped music institutes in Wafi mall and Ibn Battuta mall.

Where to Shop: visit Thomsun Music across the UAE

Music is truly a magical journey, and the right moment is all it takes to help a child discover their own melody. Imagine their eyes lighting up as they unwrap an instrument, with the first notes filling the room with joy, laughter, and endless possibilities. A thoughtful gift like this can be the beginning of a lifelong connection with music, inspiring creativity, building confidence, and creating countless happy moments. To make your shopping easier and help you earn the title of the best gift picker, we have curated a list of the most in demand instruments for young musicians.

If you need a little extra guidance, don't hesitate to visit one of our store locations listed below – our expert advisors are always on hand to help you find that perfect gift. Or, if you know exactly what instrument you're looking for, you can skip the queues and make your purchase instantly online at www.Thomsunmusic.com. Happy shopping!

Store Locations:
• Business Bay
• Ibn Battuta Mall
• Wafi Mall
• Fish Roundabout, Deira
• Salahuddin Street
• Sahara Centre, Sharjah
• Abu Dhabi
• Shop-in-shop locations at selected Virgin Megastores