Whether you’re shopping for a seasoned musician or someone just starting their musical journey, giving a unique musical instrument is a thoughtful and meaningful gift. Instruments provide not only the means to create beautiful sounds but also the opportunity to express emotions, develop new skills, and even relax. From classic choices to more obscure options, there are instruments out there that will delight any music lover. Here are 15 of the best unique musical instrument gifts that are sure to inspire creativity and spark a love for music.
1. Handpan Drum
The handpan is a modern instrument that produces a soothing, melodic sound, ideal for both beginners and advanced musicians. Resembling a steel drum, the handpan is played by striking its convex surface with the hands or fingers, creating an array of harmonics. Its calming tones make it a popular choice for meditation or ambient music.
What sets the handpan apart from traditional percussion instruments is its ability to evoke deep emotion with minimal effort. The instrument’s versatility allows for easy learning, but it also offers the potential for sophisticated compositions. A handpan is a unique gift for anyone who appreciates innovative, melodic percussion instruments.
2. Kalimba (Thumb Piano)
The kalimba, also known as a thumb piano, is a traditional African instrument with a modern appeal. It features metal tines of varying lengths that are plucked with the thumbs, creating a warm, resonant sound. Kalimbas come in different sizes and tunings, making them suitable for musicians of all levels.
Compact and easy to carry, the kalimba is perfect for both beginners and advanced musicians. Its gentle, melodic tones are perfect for relaxation or light music, making it a great gift for anyone who enjoys hands-on instruments with a meditative quality.
3. Ukulele
The ukulele is a small, four-stringed instrument with a cheerful and light-hearted sound. Although it originated in Hawaii, it has gained popularity worldwide due to its ease of learning and unique timbre. The ukulele is great for beginners who want to dive into string instruments without the challenge of a larger guitar.
For those who already play guitar, the ukulele offers a refreshing change and a way to explore different musical genres. With its variety of designs and tunings, a ukulele is a wonderful gift for someone looking to expand their musical horizons.
4. Didgeridoo
The didgeridoo is an iconic wind instrument originating from Australia’s Indigenous peoples. Made traditionally from hollowed-out wood or bamboo, the didgeridoo produces a deep, resonant drone that is both earthy and calming. It is known for its unique circular breathing technique, which allows the player to maintain a continuous sound.
This instrument is ideal for anyone interested in world music or exploring unique, cultural instruments. Playing the didgeridoo is not only about learning music but also about immersing oneself in an ancient tradition, making it a unique gift for adventurous musicians.
5. Hang Drum
The hang drum is another fascinating percussion instrument that delivers rich, melodic sounds. Similar to the handpan, the hang drum is played by striking the top surface with the hands. It’s known for its ethereal tones that are often used for meditation or soothing background music.
Unlike traditional drums, the hang drum is tuned to specific notes and produces harmonious soundscapes that evoke feelings of calmness and peace. This is an excellent gift for anyone who loves ambient music or desires an instrument that offers both beauty and tranquility.
6. Electric Violin
An electric violin is a modern take on the classical violin. While it still maintains the same structure and mechanics as a traditional violin, it is equipped with electronic pickups that allow it to be amplified and played with effects. This makes it suitable for genres beyond classical music, such as rock, electronic, and experimental music.
For musicians who want to explore new ways of playing the violin, an electric violin is a perfect gift. It combines the elegance of classical music with the versatility of modern sound manipulation, offering a wide range of creative possibilities.
7. Sitar
The sitar is a stringed instrument popular in Indian classical music, and it has become recognized around the world for its rich, resonant sound. Featuring a long neck and a wide array of sympathetic strings that resonate when the main strings are plucked, the sitar produces a complex, melodic tone that is both mesmerizing and intricate.
For someone interested in world music or learning an iconic instrument, the sitar is an excellent gift. It requires a bit of dedication and practice to master, but it offers a deeply rewarding and enriching musical experience.
8. Marimba
The marimba is a percussion instrument that consists of wooden bars, which are struck with mallets to produce sound. It has a rich, melodic sound and is often used in both classical and contemporary music. The marimba offers a deeper and warmer sound compared to the xylophone, and it’s widely used in orchestras and bands.
For musicians who enjoy playing melodic percussion or want to expand their skills, the marimba is a fantastic gift. While it is typically larger and more expensive than other instruments, it provides a striking and unique addition to any musician’s collection.
9. Cajón Drum
The cajón is a box-shaped percussion instrument that originated in Peru. It is played by sitting on the box and striking its front surface with the hands. The cajón has become popular in a variety of genres, from flamenco to contemporary music, due to its versatility and portability.
This instrument is perfect for drummers or percussionists who are looking for a portable and unique drum. The cajón provides a variety of sounds, from deep, resonant bass tones to higher, sharper strikes, making it a versatile and enjoyable instrument for both beginners and professionals.
10. Ocarina
The ocarina is a wind instrument with ancient roots in various cultures around the world. Made from clay or ceramic, the ocarina features a distinctive, smooth sound and is played by blowing into its mouthpiece while covering the various holes with the fingers. Its gentle, ethereal sound makes it a perfect instrument for folk music or soothing melodies.
With its compact size and charming aesthetic, the ocarina is a delightful gift for beginners or collectors who appreciate unique and historical instruments. It’s a great way to introduce someone to wind instruments or simply to enjoy a beautiful, soulful sound.
11. Glass Harp
The glass harp, or musical glasses, is a fascinating instrument made by filling a series of glasses with varying levels of water. When the rim of each glass is rubbed, it produces a different pitch, allowing the player to create melodic lines by tapping the glasses or rubbing them with the fingers.
This instrument offers a unique, ethereal sound and adds a layer of elegance to any performance. It’s an ideal gift for musicians who are interested in exploring unconventional instruments or creating ambient and classical music with an unconventional twist.
12. Bouzouki
The bouzouki is a Greek stringed instrument similar to the mandolin, known for its bright, resonant sound and distinct, rapid strumming style. It is often used in Mediterranean and Balkan folk music, adding depth and rhythm to the performance.
A bouzouki makes a great gift for someone interested in exploring world music or wanting to learn a stringed instrument that differs from the traditional guitar or violin. Its rich sound and cultural significance make it an exciting addition to any musician’s repertoire.
13. Theremin
The theremin is an electronic instrument that produces sound without being physically touched. Instead, the player controls pitch and volume by moving their hands near two metal antennas, creating a distinctive, eerie sound that is often associated with science fiction movies.
For musicians who enjoy experimenting with sound and electronic music, the theremin is an exciting and unique gift. Its otherworldly sounds add an experimental dimension to any music setup, and learning to play it can be a truly unique musical challenge.
14. Wind Chimes with Tuned Notes
Tuned wind chimes are a relaxing and visually appealing gift that combines musical beauty with natural sound. Made of metal or bamboo, these wind chimes are carefully tuned to create a harmonious sound when the wind blows, offering an ambient, melodic experience.
Perfect for outdoor spaces, gardens, or meditation areas, tuned wind chimes provide peaceful background music that’s perfect for relaxation or calming moments. They make a thoughtful and unique gift for anyone who enjoys music that soothes the soul.
15. Violin Bow Tie
While not a traditional musical instrument, a violin bow tie is a unique accessory for musicians and music lovers alike. Designed to resemble the elegant curves of a violin bow, this stylish piece of clothing adds a personal and whimsical touch to any outfit, especially for those who enjoy playing classical instruments.
This charming accessory is an ideal gift for a musician who appreciates fine fashion or wants to add a touch of musical flair to their wardrobe.
Conclusion
From the soothing melodies of a kalimba to the experimental sounds of a theremin, musical instruments come in all shapes, sizes, and sounds. The perfect instrument gift depends on the recipient’s musical tastes and their interest in exploring different styles or genres. Whether they’re a seasoned musician or a curious beginner, each of these unique musical instrument gifts offers a wonderful way to inspire creativity, foster a love for music, and introduce new sounds to any musical journey.