By Mary Lathem
You’ve found the perfect gift for your mother-in-law, teenage cousin, and even that niece who’s going crazy for dinosaurs these days – but one name stands between you and the end of your holiday shopping list. You think to yourself, “What can I buy for my classical music-loving friend when listening to WDAV is free? What more could they possibly want?” The familiar panic sets in, and suddenly your midwinter looks pretty bleak.
Luckily for you, we’ve scoured the internet this year for the best gifts to satisfy every classical music lover in your life. With options for the seasoned classical music fan and budding musicians alike, this list will make sure your holiday shopping yoke is easy (and your wallet’s burden is light).
1. Music Fraction Bars
Ideal for clever music teachers and curious students, this unique puzzle encourages mastery of musical notation through fractions and vice versa. It’s fun and functional, but this toy’s streamlined beauty is a bonus that will steal the heart of any recipient – you’ll never find this gift tucked away in a closet!
Credit: Courtesy of Mirus Toys, Etsy
2. Yousician
Billed as “the largest music educator in the world,” Yousician is an interactive music app that teaches users to play an instrument of their choice, including options for guitar, bass, piano, ukulele, and voice. As subscribers are guided through tailored music lessons using their phone or tablet, the app offers feedback in real time and assigns exercises based on the user’s needs.
While technology can’t replace private music lessons, a Yousician subscription is a fantastic gift option for complete beginners, experienced musicians in need of a refresher, and aspiring performers on the go.
3. Mozartkugeln
Filled with pistachio marzipan and nougat and covered in dark chocolate, these scrumptious Austrian confections come in an endless variety of decorative packaging celebrating the legendary composer. Sweet, sweet music.
4. Beethoven’s 5th Symphony Cookie Cutter
Has your loved one ever:
- Looked at a cookie and thought “it needs more suspense”?
- Wished sheet music was edible?
- Expressed a desire to be more like Rachel Stewart?
If you answered “yes” to any of the above, your search for the perfect gift ends here. They’ll serve up this iconic moment in classical music history in no time (and they’ll have no excuse but to throw a party for Beethoven’s 250th birthday in 2020).
Credit: Courtesy of Bakerlogy, Etsy
5. WDAV’s Buy-A-Brick Program
Make a statement that will stand the test of time! WDAV is offering a unique opportunity for listeners to demonstrate their commitment to great music through the purchase of a personalized brick to be placed in the station’s front walkway.
Surprise your loved one with a brick in their honor this holiday, and they’ll be thrilled to see their mark on the Davidson College campus when the next bricks are installed in early spring.
Want to wait to purchase a brick for an anniversary or a birthday? Don’t worry – you can participate in the Buy-A-Brick program anytime, not just the holiday season.
Proceeds from this project will provide long-term support of WDAV’s classical music mission, the gift that keeps on giving!