Now is the Time, and the Time is Now.
Start strong? Jet guitars are the best beginner electric guitars on the market.
There’s something about the start of a new year that makes music feel possible, maybe even necessary.
Maybe it’s the quiet after the chaos. Maybe it’s that itch to learn something new. Or maybe it’s the simple realisation that now is a better time than “someday”. Whatever the reason, January is when countless people decide to finally pick up an instrument — or pick one back up again.
The good news? There has never been a better time to start.
Modern instruments are more affordable, better made and more beginner-friendly than ever before. Whether you want something small and joyful, something expressive and deep, or something loud enough to shake the walls, there’s a perfect starting point waiting for you.
Under our New Year, New Gear banner, here are the best instruments to learn this year, all available at Musicmaker.
Ukulele: The Easiest Way to Start Making Music
If there’s one instrument that removes fear instantly, it’s the ukulele.
Ukuleles are small, friendly, forgiving and wildly satisfying to play. You can learn real songs quickly, build confidence fast, and enjoy music without feeling overwhelmed. That’s exactly why ukulele remains one of the most searched beginner instruments year after year.
Flight Ukuleles – Travel Series & Natural Series
Flight have become a go-to name for beginner ukuleles because they simply get it right. Their Travel Series ukes are lightweight, durable and perfect for casual learning, younger players or anyone who wants something grab-and-go. They’re ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, dorms and kitchen-table strumming.
The Flight Natural Series steps things up slightly, offering a more traditional feel and fuller tone while remaining incredibly accessible. These are ukuleles you can grow with — simple enough for beginners, but good enough to stick with long-term.
For anyone searching best beginner ukulele, learn ukulele at home, or easy instrument to learn, this is the place to start.
Simply the best. Better than all the rest. Flight Ukuleles.
Acoustic Guitar: Timeless, Expressive, Always Relevant
The acoustic guitar remains one of the most popular instruments in the world for a reason. It’s versatile, portable, and capable of everything from gentle fingerpicking to big, bold strumming.
Flight F-230C Folk Acoustic Guitar
The Flight F-230C is a brilliant entry point into acoustic guitar. With its comfortable folk-style body, balanced tone and approachable feel, it’s ideal for beginners learning chords, rhythm and basic fingerstyle.
It’s the kind of guitar that doesn’t fight back — it encourages progress rather than frustration, which is exactly what new players need.
Musicmaker Vintage Acoustic Guitar Packs
For those who want everything sorted from day one, the Musicmaker Vintage Guitar Packs are an absolute winner. These packs remove guesswork and deliver a complete, ready-to-play setup.
Choose from:
- Dreadnought (V440WK) – bold, full-bodied sound, great for strumming
- Parlour (V880WK) – compact, warm and intimate
- Orchestra (V660WK) – balanced and articulate, perfect for mixed styles
Each pack includes a gig bag, strap, tuner and picks — everything you need to start playing immediately. These are ideal for beginners who want value, convenience and quality in one box.
The Flight F-230C, available in 3 Colours and the mm Vintage Guitar Packs, available in 3 Styles.
Electric Guitar: Where Excitement Meets Expression
Electric guitar is often the instrument that hooks people for life. The feel, the sound, the attitude — it’s endlessly expressive and incredibly fun to learn.
Jet JS-300 & JT-300 Series
Jet have become one of the most exciting beginner electric guitar brands around, offering stunning playability, modern features and exceptional value.
The JS-300 series delivers classic S-style comfort with smooth necks and versatile tones, while the JT-300 series offers that unmistakable T-style snap and clarity. Both are beginner-friendly but far from disposable — these are guitars you’ll want to keep playing as you improve.
Musicmaker Jet Pack Promo Packs
If you want the full electric guitar experience straight away, the Musicmaker Jet Pack Promo Packs are unbeatable.
Each pack includes:
- A Jet JS-300 or JT-300 guitar
- A Laney practice amp
- Cable, gig bag, strap and tuner
It’s a complete electric guitar setup designed to remove barriers and get you playing immediately. Plug in, turn up, and go.
Individual guitars or as a Pack - Jet Guitars are the best. Try them in Musicmaker today!
Digital Piano: Learn Properly, Play Beautifully
Piano is one of the best foundations for understanding music, and modern digital pianos make learning far more accessible than traditional uprights ever were.
Donner DDP-80, DDP-80 PLUS & DDP-80 PRO
The Donner DDP digital pianos are a standout choice for beginners and returning players alike. They offer weighted keys for proper technique, great piano sounds, headphone outputs for silent practice, and sleek designs that fit comfortably into modern homes.
The DDP-80 is a brilliant starting point, while the PLUS and PRO models add extra realism, features and refinement for players who want to grow without upgrading immediately.
Perfect for those searching best digital piano for beginners or learn piano at home.
The Donner DDP-80 series are beautiful, practical and affordable.
Electronic Drums: Learn Loudly, Practice Quietly
Drums are pure joy — but they don’t always mix well with neighbours. Electronic drum kits solve that problem beautifully, offering real playing feel with volume control.
Donner DED-70, DED-80P & DED-200 MAX
Donner’s electronic drum kits are some of the most accessible and feature-rich options available right now.
- DED-70 – compact, affordable and ideal for beginners
- DED-80P – improved feel and responsiveness for progressing players
- DED-200 MAX – a powerful, immersive kit for serious practice
All offer headphone practice, built-in sounds and modern features that make learning drums genuinely fun — and family-friendly.
FAQ: Learning an Instrument in the New Year
What is the easiest instrument to learn as a beginner?
Ukulele is often the easiest place to start, thanks to its small size, simple chords and fast progress. Acoustic guitar and digital piano are also excellent beginner options.
What instrument should I learn first?
That depends on your musical taste and goals. Ukulele and acoustic guitar are great for quick enjoyment, piano builds strong musical foundations, and drums are perfect for rhythm lovers.
Are beginner instrument packs worth it?
Yes. Starter packs like guitar or electric guitar bundles include essential accessories and remove guesswork, making it easier to start playing immediately.
Is it better to learn acoustic or electric guitar first?
Both are great. Acoustic guitars are simple and portable, while electric guitars are easier on the fingers and offer more tonal variety. The best choice is the one that excites you most.
Can I learn an instrument at home?
Absolutely. Modern instruments, online lessons and silent practice options make learning at home easier than ever.
This Is the Year You Start
Learning an instrument isn’t about talent. It’s about access, encouragement and having the right tool in your hands.
Whether it’s a ukulele, guitar, piano or drum kit, the instruments available today make starting easier — and more enjoyable — than ever before. Under our New Year, New Gear banner, Musicmaker is packed with options that remove friction and fuel inspiration.
This is the year you finally start.
And we’ve got the gear to help you do it.
Got any questions? About these instruments? About other instruments? About the instruments of change?
Get in touch via the Intercom button below, we are always happy to help.
