The holidays are here, and the gift of music is at the top of everyone’s wish list! There are a variety of guitars, pianos, and drum sets, plus different sizes of violin – so where do you begin when it comes to picking out the perfect gift? No need to stress! We let the experts at Vivaldi Music Academy put together an easy gift guide for this holiday season.
Guitar: Both acoustic and electric guitars are fun (and super popular) holiday gifts.
Where to go: Guitar Center! They offer wonderful options with sets, and you can even score great holiday savings this time of year.
What to get: When it comes to an electric guitar, the Rocketeer Electric Guitar Pack definitely has the wow factor. It has everything your favorite rock-star-to-be needs to get started! If acoustic is more your jam, grab the Rogue Starter Acoustic Guitar. It comes in a variety of colors, so you can customize your pick.
Piano/Keyboard: A standard 88 key, fully weighted keyboard is a great choice. Semi-weighted keys are fine as well for young beginners, but they will grow out of it quickly. Pro tip: you don’t need to worry about the number series of a piano (for example, Yamaha Aries YPD162), any full sized, 88 key weighted will work great!
Where to go: Amazon, Costco/Sam’s Club, and Guitar Center all have big selections when it comes to keyboards.
What to get: Keep an eye out for brands like Casio and Williams for starter keyboards (they aren’t as pricey!). If you are looking for an upgrade in sound and quality, go for the Yamaha instead. If you want to include a bench, stand, sustain pedal, and music rest, this Casio bundle from Costco is a solid choice.
Violin/Cello: We know this can be a trickier one, but don’t be intimidated! We highly recommend renting a violin or cello from a local violin shop. There are two ways to properly measure a child for a violin. The easiest method is to have the student’s left arm fully extended away from his or her body, and measure from the base of the neck to either the wrist or the center of the palm. The neck-to-wrist measurement will indicate the most comfortable size for the student.
Where to go: Lisle’s Violin Shop (2450 Bissonnet St, Houston, TX 77005; (713) 526-4005) and Amati Violin Shop (2315 University Blvd, Houston, TX 77005, (713) 666-6461) are our two top picks. You can trust the experts there will direct you to the right instrument.
What to get: Both places will help to size the student and find the right violin for them. They do rentals and purchases, so you can choose what’s best for you!
Drum Sets: Electric drum sets are always an exciting choice for the holidays!
Where to go: Sweetwater.com has lots of choices when it comes to drum sets, plus some good holiday deals and discounts as well.
What to get: Alesia is a premier brand and the instrument we use during regular weekly lessons. This Surge Electric Drum Set has all the essentials!
GIVE THE GIFT OF MUSIC
Once you have decided on the instrument you are going to give—learning how to play it will start at Vivaldi Music Academy! You can add a gift certificate to your gift for a month of lessons. We offer flexible scheduling and our gift certificates don’t expire, so it’s the perfect stocking stuffer for any music enthusiast. As always, our friendly staff is just a phone call away, so if you have any questions about giving the gift of music, please don’t hesitate to reach out!
