So, your loved one wants to become a musician? That’s wonderful! Music is such a fulfilling creative outlet. As their support system, you want to encourage their passions. But where do you start when gift shopping for a budding musician?
Having the proper gear, lessons, and resources accelerates skill building. With the right gifts, you empower aspiring artists to record demos and share their music with the world. This gift guide covers everything a beginner needs to start their musical journey.
Audio Recording Studio Time
Nothing propels a musician’s growth like studio time. Professional recording rooms allow artists to hear their music come to life. If you’re near a major city, search for “recording studio close to me” to find options. Alternatively, narrow down your search by typing music studio hire in Bristol, for example.
Look for a studio offering an introductory rate that fits your budget. Many have gift certificates available online. Make sure the studio has an engineer or producer on staff to guide and mentor new artists. Recording studio gifts give budding musicians hands-on experience and demo material.
Digital Audio Workstation
A digital audio workstation (DAW) is the software used to record, edit, and produce songs on a computer. DAW software ranges from free to a couple of hundred pounds. Paired with a MIDI keyboard controller, headphones, and a microphone, a DAW transforms a laptop into a home recording studio. This portable setup enables musicians to sharpen production skills anywhere inspiration strikes.
MIDI Keyboard Controller
A MIDI keyboard controller connects to music production software and allows for playing virtual instruments. It’s one of the most essential pieces of gear for computer-based recording. Leading beginner models include the Akai MPK Mini MK3, Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25, and ArturiaMiniLabMkII. Prices start around £100. Consider a keyboard with drum pads for triggering beats and samples.
Studio Headphones
Quality headphones provide accurate sound monitoring when recording and mixing. Look for a pair marketed as “studio headphones” or “monitoring headphones.” Top brands include Audio-Technica, AKG, Sony, Sennheiser, and Shure. Over-ear closed-back headphones block external noise. Open-back models offer a more natural sound but leak audio. Expect to spend £100 to £300 for great beginner headphones.
Online Lessons
Remote music lessons open up a world of teachers. Online platforms such as TakeLessons, Lessonface, and Udemy connect students to instructors specialising in various instruments and styles. You can find experts in genres from rock, pop, and hip hop to classical, jazz, and folk. Give the gift of skills development through video chat lessons.
Books About Music Production
Reading inspires continuous learning. Concepts that mystify beginners start to click through the pages of a great book. Consider titles like “The Music Producer’s Handbook” by Bobby Owsinski, “Making Music” by Dennis DeSantis, or “Audio Production Basics with Logic Pro X” by Harry Gold and Ryan Rey. Books that unpack the art of recording, songwriting, and mixing fuel creativity.
Gear for Their Instrument
What does your musician play? The gear gifts get specific here. For guitarists, portable multi-effects pedals by Boss and Zoom add tones. Acoustic players need a tuner pedal like the Snark SN5X. Ukulele, violin, saxophone, trumpet – whatever their instrument, accessories expand possibilities. Or help fund their next gear upgrade, like a better quality instrument.
The journey from musical hobbyist to artist has its challenges. But the right gifts impart confidence and set talent free. With quality gear, lessons, and resources, budding musicians can share their unique voices with the world. Support the artists in your life by gifting the tools needed to succeed.