With so many options out there for musical themed gifts, it can be hard to know what to look for. How do you separate the kitsch from the quality? I’m never one to scoff at a musical mug or necklace – it’s always the thought that counts. If you want to look beyond the treble clef bracelets and grand staff throws to something your singer will actually use and love, read on. I’ve taken the guess work out of your holiday shopping this year with my great gifts for singers list.
Gifts for Singers: Practice and Performance
Looking for something that will help boost a practice session? Give your singer the gift of a voice straw. For a full product review, see my blog post on that.
There are lots of technical books on the subject of vocal pedagogy. While no one would say that this is a light-weight read, Richard Miller’s “On the Art of Singing” is an accessible place to start. It’s a lovely introduction to the subject of singing and a wonderful read for someone getting serious about mechanics of music making.
If your singer is always buying and downloading sheet music, a subscription to musicnotes Pro, is a practical way to show your support. With PDF downloads, 12 pro-credits for the year, and lots of additional perks, this is a great gift for that singer who is building her library of pop, musical theatre and contemporary songs.
Speaking of pop singers… Looking for a basic set up to start recording those amazing originals? The focusrite Scarlett Solo studio set up paired with garage band is all your singer needs to start cranking out hits. You may want to throw in a mic stand and a pop filter to really set them up. This is the perfect entry-level kit to get them rolling on those production skills.
Gifts for Singers: Vocal Wellness
Maintaining vocal health is at the top of every singers’ list. What better way to do that than to have some basic tools on hand to pamper and soothe those golden pipes? Though nothing beats having an amazing otolaryngologist on speed dial (did you catch this podcast with the incredible Dr. Panossian??), there are some tried and true remedies that every singer should consider having at her disposal.
A Voice Steamer. I like having one of these on hand. Inhaling steam feels amazing when you are struggling with a sore throat or inflamed vocal tract. Even when you are not under the weather a few minutes of steam therapy can help you relax and reboot. As a bonus, your pores may thank you too!
At nearly $50, this Manuka Honey is a pricey gift. But with it’s antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, this stuff is worth every penny. There is nothing better to reach for, when you are dealing with that pesky cold or scratchy throat. It deserves a permanent place in every singer’s medicine cabinet or kitchen. It should be at the top of every singer’s wish list. Don’t take my word for – check out what the Cleveland Clinic has to say about this amazing golden goo.
Traditional Medicinals Organic Throat Coat Tea, 16 ct ($6.29)
When it comes to vocal wellness, it’s smart to have an arsenal of tools at the ready. Keeping a box of Throat Coat on hand is a great plan. At around $7, it makes a terrific stocking stuffer for your singer. While you hope they never need to use it, they will be thinking gratefully of you when that throat starts to tickle and they reach for some soothing relief.
Gifts for Singers: Some fun!
Every singer needs a water bottle! For that singer songwriter who plays guitar too, why not consider a fun decorative guitar water bottle? Of course, the chic black makes it the perfect accessory for open mic night!
For the oenophile who also loves to belt it out, the Major Scale Musical Wine Glasses from UnCommon Goods are a fun option. I’m not sure that A is tuned to 440, but after a few glasses, you probably won’t care.
If the manuka honey wasn’t luxurious enough, how about a cozy cashmere scarf? Help your singer keep her instrument warm as she is rushing from concert-to-concert making merry this holiday season.
Gifts for Singers: Voice Lessons
Of course nothing is more encouraging than giving a gift of voice lessons. Voice lessons are a surefire path to maximizing musical potential. Nothing helps a singer level-up like one-on-one time with an amazing voice teacher. Whether you are looking for a quick series of lessons, a single drop-in or a weekly meeting, I’m here to help. Scheduling is easier than ever with my calendly link. You can take a lesson In-person in Thousand Oaks, CA or on FaceTime. For more information on lessons see my lessons page. To purchase a gift card, shoot me an email or text heidivass(at)gmail(dot)com OR text/call 805-405-0148(c)
I hope that this little list has helped inspire you. I hope it’s motivated you to find a truly special gift for the singer in your life. Whether it’s that luxurious cashmere scarf, a simple box of tea, or 6 months of private voice lessons, remember it’s not really the gift itself that will have the greatest impact on your singer. For performers, knowing that the people you love are your biggest fans is truly the best gift of all.
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