With the Holidays coming, you will undoubtedly be wondering what to buy for your child. If your child is taking piano lessons, why not make it a musical gift? Here are some gift ideas for your musical child:
Piano
For any student who is still practicing on a keyboard, a piano would be the ultimate gift! As a piano teacher, I see so many piano students who are struggling because they are practicing on a small keyboard instead of a full-sized piano. There are many new and used pianos available at piano dealers, on Craig’s List and through the classified ads. A piano is a big purchase, and often lasts a lifetime, so you want to make sure you purchase a good quality piano instead of going for the lowest-priced piano.
Keyboard
If you child already owns a piano, you may want to consider giving him or her a keyboard. Look for a keyboard that has many fun sounds, instruments and drum patterns. Keyboards that have a recording feature are especially nice if your child enjoys composing. Just make sure your child knows the keyboard is only for fun, and regular practicing should still take place on the piano.
Metronome
A metronome is a device that clicks to help keep a steady beat. Metronomes come in many styles and sizes. Some wind, others run on batteries or electricity. You may want to compare tones in person since some are more pleasing than others. Metronomes are available at most music stores and online.
Piano Lamp
There are so many details to focus on when playing music. A good piano lamp is essential for lighting up the playing area. Piano lamps have a wide range of prices. I have found inexpensive piano lamps at Menards and office supply stores such as Office Depot and Office Max. Music stores generally have a larger selection, but they are typically more expensive.
Piano students often have multiple books to carry. A book bag is a great way to keep their books organized. Music-themed tote bags are available at music stores, online musical gift stores and at boutiques. Or better yet, make your own personalized music bag! Many craft stores including Michaels and JoAnn Fabrics carry plain canvas tote bags and a wide selection of fabric paint.
There are many music books and sheet music available with movie and pop chart themes. Look for terms like 5-finger, Easy and Big Note for beginning piano students. Sometimes books will be listed by level. Check your child’s level on their lesson book to see which level they are currently playing at. I recommend looking online at Sheet Music Plus for a great selection of popular sheet music and books. This site will often show you the first page of the song which can be very helpful in choosing the correct level. Keep in mind that popular music is often more difficult to play than lesson book songs because of the complicated rhythms, hand positions and key signatures.
Musical Gadgets and Clothing
Many music stores carry musical themed items including pens, pencil sharpeners, notebooks, paper clips, erasers, sweatshirts, scarves, gloves, hats, ties and socks. These items are also available at online music gift stores.
Music Dictionary
Do you know what forte, ritardando and crescendo mean? Most of the terms used in music come from the Italian language. Therefore it is essential for all music students to have a Music Dictionary. Even advanced piano players consult their music dictionaries often. Look for a small hand-held dictionary with simple definitions.
A magazine rack can be very helpful to hold all of your child’s music books. It is much easier to keep the piano area clean if your child has a convenient place to put their music books. My magazine rack has a music score printed on the canvas, but a plain rack would also work.
There are many computer software programs that are available for piano students. Some programs like Music Ace have fun games to play to strengthen note-reading skills. Other music notation software such as Print Music, Finale and MusicTime Deluxe allow students to print out their own compositions. If you have a midi keyboard, computer, and the right software, you can hook your computer up to the keyboard and it will notate the music as your child plays on the keyboard.
The following online stores are great places to find musical gifts:
