Purchase
Quality music, instruments, and manipulatives are essential for the music student to thrive. While items can often be found at a lower price from other vendors, the sound quality, build, user experience, and longevity all suffer. I've tried many different brands looking for the best musical instruments for children.
Here is a collection of some great products I have found for use in my music studio and continually recommend to parents and teachers!
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"Only the best is good enough for children."
Zoltan Kodaly
First Steps in Music / Percussion
An essential element in the Montessori Method and perfect for Infants and Toddlers First Steps in Music, the bell sticks or bell rattles by Nino are my FAVORITE things. The single bell handle fits well in most infants' hands 6 months and up while the double bell has a slimmer profile for petite hands.
Meinl's Professional Wood Block produces a rich tone that encourages students to use the instrument with artistry and respect. Use this wood block for all Beat Keeping activities, as a "galloping" sound effect, and to give rhythmic dictation. The size also makes it easy for little ones to practice passing and putting away.
These egg shakers from Nino Percussion have a gentle, swishing sound. They are aesthetically pleasing, fit well into a minimalist or Montessori home, and can be easily cleaned with water and vinegar. I use the large size with babies who tend to "mouth" objects.
"Claves Clap!" is the phrase I repeat to teach correct instrument technique. These claves have a pleasing, rich tone when clapped together.
The ultimate fun sound effect to add to books, games, and songs! Nino's Stirring drum can sound like a clakkity whirl or a melodious scale depending on the technique used. Works well with all of those "'Round and 'Round" songs and helps toddlers with gross motor stirring /circling skills.
Need a tambourine? Buy from Remo. These REAL instruments are pleasant to listen to and can be played in a number of styles...and still sound good. Place it on the floor for babies and young children, use it as the center point when forming a circle, place a bead necklace in the head and swirl. There are so many ways to use these quality instruments!
Piano - Beginner
Piano - Intermediate
The Complete Book of Scales, Chords, Arpeggios, and Cadences
Masterworks Classics
Album for the Young
Children's Album