Unplug, Play, and Make Some Noise | Outdoor Musical Instruments for Children's Museums 
Our outdoor musical instruments are designed to spark wonder, ignite curiosity and encourage hands-on learning, making them the perfect fit for your Children's Museum. 

At Percussion Play, we create instruments that turn museum gardens, courtyards, and entrances into vibrant, sound-filled spaces where children (and their grown-ups!) can explore, experiment, and express themselves through music.

Durable, safe, and accessible for all ages and abilities, our instruments support STEAM education, sensory development, and social interaction, all through joyful, unstructured play.

Inspire creativity from the moment families arrive with music that moves, teaches, and connects.
Most Popular Instruments
View More Instruments
Case Study: Children's Museum Unites Generations Through Outdoor Soundscape, Santa Fe, NM
The Santa Fe Children’s Museum created a vibrant outdoor musical space using instruments from Percussion Play, including the Rainbow Trio Ensemble and Cavatina. Designed to encourage hands-on learning and inclusive play, the installation supports the museum’s mission to foster discovery through joyful, open-ended experiences. The instruments’ accessibility, durability, and visual appeal make them a perfect fit for young visitors, sparking creativity, collaboration, and a deeper connection to sound and rhythm in a playful, outdoor setting.
Read the full story here
Catalog Download

Our Children’s Museums Catalog is a source of inspiration for creating joyful, educational, and inclusive musical spaces. Inside, you’ll find a curated selection of vibrant, accessible instruments perfect for young learners, along with real-world case studies, creative installation ideas, and expertly suggested products tailored to museum environments. Whether you're designing a new exhibit or enhancing an outdoor play area, this catalog will help you bring music, movement, and discovery to life.

Musical Exhibits in Children's Museums For Family Connection and Play
White Paper

Connecting Generations Through Music and Play: 
Intergenerational play is rapidly emerging as a powerful way to boost cognitive, social, and emotional well-being across all ages. This whitepaper explores how music-making can enhance these programs—fostering meaningful connections between children, older adults, and the wider community.

White Paper: Intergenerational Play
Podcast

Join us as we explore how some of the most forward-thinking children’s museums in the U.S. are using outdoor musical instruments to create immersive, hands-on learning experiences. From soundscapes to Music Gardens, these spaces are helping children connect with nature, think critically, and play creatively.

We’re also joined by Arthur G. Affleck III, Executive Director of the Association of Children’s Museums, who shares his thoughts on the power of outdoor music and how museums are continuing to innovate and evolve.

🎧 Listen Now: Harmonizing Play and Learning - Children's Museums
FAQs

How do outdoor musical instruments support STEAM learning in children?

Our instruments naturally integrate STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) concepts. Children explore sound waves (science), instrument design (engineering), rhythm and patterns (math), and creative expression (arts)—all through hands-on, playful interaction.

Are the instruments durable and suitable for high-traffic public spaces?

Yes — our instruments are specifically engineered for busy outdoor environments. Built from robust, weather-resistant materials like stainless steel, aluminum, and HDPE, they’re designed to withstand heavy use and all kinds of weather, year after year.

They require minimal maintenance — usually just occasional cleaning and inspection — and thanks to their high-quality construction, replacement parts are rarely needed. If they ever are, they’re easy to order and install, ensuring your instruments stay safe, attractive, and musical with minimal disruption.

Do we need musical experience or staff to facilitate use?

Not at all! Our instruments are designed to be intuitive and accessible — no musical background is required. Visitors can simply walk up and play, making them ideal for unsupervised areas or self-guided experiences.

Can the instruments be customized to fit our theme or branding?

Absolutely! We offer a variety of customization options—including color choices, engraved panels, and flexible layout configurations—to help your musical space reflect your museum’s unique theme or branding. Whether you're creating a pollinator garden or a sensory-rich STEAM zone, we’re happy to collaborate and bring your vision to life.

For something truly memorable, our MyTunes instrument can even be tuned to play a recognizable melody or theme tune—perfect for reinforcing your identity or enhancing the visitor experience. (Please note: copyright laws apply when selecting songs.)

We’re always happy to collaborate and bring your vision to life.

GET IN TOUCH WITH ALEX

Alex Cook helps Children’s Museums turn everyday spaces into joyful musical adventures. From colorful, child-friendly sound sculptures to interactive installations that support STEAM learning and sensory play, Alex knows how to create experiences that get kids exploring, collaborating, and coming back for more. Looking to add a little harmony to your museum? Alex is your go-to for playful, educational soundscapes that inspire curiosity and creativity.


Man playing instrument

By clicking "Subscribe", you confirm that you have read and accepted our Terms and Conditions, Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy.

Thank you! We have added you to our newsletter mailing list.