These instruments are each handmade in developing countries. The supplier for these products has an excellent reputation, is recognised by BAFTS (the British Association for Fair Trade Shops) as being a Fair Trade supplier and is currently listed in their directory of approved suppliers. They do their best to support communities through trade and through them we feel we are doing our part however small. We do have to let you know that because they are handmade, each instrument is unique and you will notice variations and construction techniques. We do inspect them before passing them on to our customers. Although we think your children will love playing with them, they are not toys and should not be used unattended by children.