Playing in Tune

Music-related products have always been popular in the toy crowd, but when Hannah Montana and High School Musical licensed products came on the scene, the popularity of guitars and karaoke machines developed a tune of their own.

These interactive toys educate and entertain at the same time. Older kids can start their own band with the Hannah Montana Electric Guitar that retails for $99.99. On the other hand, the little ones should have no trouble fine-tuning High School Musical Rockerz Guitar (pictured), $9.99.

Because music bridges a lot of generational gaps, products that incorporate music are flying off the shelves. There’s no surprise that guitars are at the top of wish lists and top retailers, like Wal-Mart and Toys “R” Us are ready to fulfill the order. In addition to staples like guitars and keyboards, parents can easily extend the gift of music with MP3 players and microphones.