As 2025 draws to a close, Percussion Play, the world’s leading designer and manufacturer of outdoor musical instruments, is reflecting on the key trends that have shaped the industry this year while offering insights for 2026. From intergenerational play, to thoughtfully designed ensembles, Percussion Play continues to observe strong momentum in the global appetite for accessible, community-centred music-making.
Five Reflections in 2025
1. Intergenerational Play is no longer niche, it’s the norm
Communities worldwide have embraced outdoor musical instruments as a natural bridge between age groups. Parks, senior living communities, schools, and family-friendly public spaces increasingly promote intergenerational interaction through music-making that feels welcoming for all.
2. Early years and beyond
While the developmental benefits of musical play in the early years are well known, this year has seen a surge in interest from educators and community planners exploring how music supports children far beyond age five. From emotional regulation in primary-aged children to confidence-building in teens, outdoor instruments are proving their value across developmental stages.
3. Outdoor spaces, big or small are being reimagined
Libraries, community centres, residential developments, and even healthcare locations, are maximising outdoor areas of any size. Compact courtyards and building entrances are becoming sound gardens, expanding their appeal and encouraging spontaneous interaction.
4. Growing demand for “Experience-Rich” public design
In 2025, landscape architects and urban designers increasingly sought installations that deliver more than aesthetics. Projects prioritised sensory engagement, wellbeing, and inclusivity and outdoor musical instruments consistently delivered on all three, becoming centrepieces rather than afterthoughts.
5. Sustainability and durability
Clients this year demonstrated heightened awareness of sustainability. Long-life materials, responsible sourcing, and low-maintenance designs have become essential requirements. Percussion Play’s focus on weatherproof, recyclable materials aligned strongly with this shift.
Five Projections for 2026
1. Inclusive, therapy instruments
Percussion Play anticipates continued collaboration with occupational therapists, music therapists, and educators to develop products for improved sensory, emotional, and cognitive needs, giving therapeutic design a more central role in public spaces.
Earlier this summer, Percussion Play announced its partnership with The Huntington & Langham Estate, which runs two award-winning care homes set in 30 acres of Surrey countryside, to explore how outdoor music-making can positively impact older people and people living with dementia. A joint pilot study was facilitated in July 2025, which saw the appointment of a ‘Musician-in-Residence’ - what is believed to be a first for research in the care home sector in the UK. Findings from this week-long pilot study will inform a larger, international research project planned for next year, with results expected to be published in 2026.
2. Nature-inspired sculptures
Designers are looking for installations that feel organically integrated into landscapes. Expect more botanically inspired silhouettes, soft forms, and instruments that harmonise with planting schemes and different environments. Percussion Play launched its new, colourful outdoor musical instruments range, “Bug Beats at the beginning of 2025, and this trend will continue in 2026.
3. Modular “Ensembles-in-a-Box” will transform space planning
Scalable, modular product will empower planners to build ensembles suited to courtyards, school playgrounds, rooftop terraces, or large regional parks, all from the same core toolkit. Ease, speed, and flexibility will define 2026 installations.
4. Digital Enhancements
QR-based learning content and simple digital augmentation will enhance accessibility and educational value. Crucially, the heart of the experience will remain unplugged, acoustic, and analogue, preserving the universal joy of hands-on music-making.
5. Outdoor Music for mental health
As councils prioritise wellbeing, placemaking, and inclusive public spaces, outdoor musical instruments will continue rising as a high-impact, low-maintenance solution. Percussion Play predicts more urban soundscapes that transform everyday areas into shared stages for creativity and connection.
Jody Ashfield, Co-Founder, and CEO of Percussion Play comments, “This year has shown us just how powerful music can be in bringing people together across ages, backgrounds, and abilities. As communities reimagine their public spaces, outdoor musical instruments are becoming essential tools for connection, wellbeing, and play. Looking ahead to 2026, we’re excited to deepen our work with educators and researchers, to create environments where everyone feels invited to make music.”