boy playing guitar

12 Books For Kids About Musical Instruments

Beautiful notes spring to life in a collection of fun and inspiration children's books about playing musical instruments. Readers are introduced to pianos, drums, violins, guitars, tambourines, and a whole lot more. The characters play their hearts out in a joyful tribute to the magic created when instruments come together in harmony.

remarkable farkle mcbride
The Remarkable Farkle McBride

Farkle McBride is a musical prodigy who is never satisfied. Mastering every single instrument he picks up- drums, trombone, flute, and violin- he is always searching for something bigger and better. John Lithgow's character is a genius on a quest for a type of perfectionism that only the most fickle minds can appreciate. He finally finds satisfaction as a conductor with a hand in bringing together the magical harmony of all the instruments in the orchestra.

girl playing saxophone

Picture Books About Playing Instruments

Celebrate beautiful sound through stories about characters who learn the value of practice, told through the eyes of piano players and other musicians. Little readers will appreciate the journey of novice musicians whose cacophony of notes leads to feeling of frustration. But with hours of lessons and rehearsals, the squeaky notes from violins and off-tune noises from trumpets  are eventually transformed into melodic harmony. Kids' books about playing instruments offer messages of inspiration with moments of humor spread throughout the pages. Also, be sure to gather some good titles that introduce little ones to all the instruments in orchestras and bands, and the way their sounds work in rhythm, beat, and harmony.

sounds good

Sounds Good!: Discover 50 Instruments

What does a double bass sound like? How do bongos differ from congas? Explore these questions and more in this captivating book featuring 50 musical instruments. Discover fascinating facts about each instrument, including the voice, computers, theremins, and more. Learn about history, theory, and culture, all while uncovering the unique sounds and stories behind each instrument.



hello world music

Hello World: Music

Discover the sounds of different instruments, learn about colors and shapes, and explore simple facts about music. The engaging prompts on each page create a fun, interactive learning experience. Perfect for little ones who love to bang on drums and tap on keyboards, this book brings musical instruments to life in a way that encourages exploration and discovery.



play this book

Play This Book

Readers are the star of this musical performance. An interactive book invites kids to join the band and make music with their imagination. Strum the guitar, slide the trombone, and crash the cymbals—all through the power of reading. With rhyming text and lively illustrations, every page is a new musical experience.



music class today

Music Class Today

Bright, dynamic illustrations bring to life a classroom filled with music. As the teacher strums his guitar and sings, the children erupt in joyful dance. But one child feels apprehensive and unsure. This heartwarming tale, with its vibrant visuals, reminds us that even small steps towards trying something new require courage, a lesson that rings true for children everywhere.



pete the cat rocks on

Pete the Cat Rocks On!

Pete the Cat is excited to see his favorite band, the Alley Cats, play a concert. But when the band doesn't show up, Pete takes matters into his own paws. He sets off on a mission to find the Alley Cats and help them save the show. Along the way, Pete uses his problem-solving skills and his friends to help him find the band. He even learns to play a few instruments himself! This fun and exciting story is full of friendship, music, and adventure.



let's play an instrument

Let's Play an Instrument: A Music Book for Kids

An upbeat music book for toddlers is the perfect introduction to the wonderful world of sound. With simple language and vibrant illustrations, little ones will learn about all kinds of instruments, from the woodwind to the brass, the strings, and the percussion. Each page introduces a new instrument, explaining how it works, the sounds it makes, and why it's so special. This book is a fun and engaging way to spark a lifelong love of music in preschoolers.



zin zin zin a violin

Zin! Zin! Zin! A Violin

This Caldecott Honor book beautifully blends musical instruments with a unique counting concept. Starting with a solo trombone and building to a full orchestra, the rhythmic verse and flowing illustrations make learning about musical ensembles an absolute delight. A guaranteed "Encore!" for readers of all ages.



listen to the music

Listen to the Music

Embark on a musical time-travel adventure! This interactive book invites young readers to press buttons and explore 10 pivotal moments in music history across the globe. From the harpsichord in 17th-century England to bebop jazz in 1940s New York, discover famous musicians and their masterpieces with the touch of a finger. Learn about diverse musical genres and cultural history while enjoying the sounds of iconic instruments.



88 instruments

88 Instruments

Chris Barton, the New York Times bestselling author, and illustrator Louis Thomas team up for a vibrant, rhythmic picture book about the exciting quest for the perfect musical instrument! A noise-loving boy faces a delightful dilemma: choosing just one instrument from a store brimming with possibilities. Triangles, sousaphones, guitars, harpsichords—the options are endless! Join him as he explores the sounds and finds the instrument that truly sings to his heart.



meet the orchestra

Meet the Orchestra

Experience the magic of the orchestra through a poetic lens! This book invites readers to witness the gradual gathering of animal musicians for an evening performance. Lyrical descriptions beautifully translate the sounds of each instrument, while dynamic watercolor illustrations capture the playful spirit of every musician and their musical companion.



alphabet family band

Alphabet Family Band

Join the Alphabet Family Band for a musical ABC adventure! This musical board book combines letters and instruments in a warm, island-inspired setting. Bright, colorful illustrations showcase family members playing congas, flutes, xylophones, and more, creating a harmonious and engaging learning experience.



the oboe goes boom boom boom

The Oboe Goes Boom Boom Boom

A band director's quest for musical harmony is hilariously disrupted by a drum-loving girl and her enthusiastic BOOM BOOM BOOMS! This laugh-out-loud picture book, from National Book Award–longlisted author Colleen AF Venable, delivers boundless energy and giggle-worthy jokes, along with a fun introduction to eight common band instruments. Lian Cho’s vibrant illustrations perfectly capture the story's lively spirit.


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