Do you need to finish your shopping in a hurry? Prefer to avoid the chaos of the malls after Thanksgiving? Did you put off shopping until the very last minute? Whatever your excuse may be, we’ve got you covered. From cleaning supplies to metronomes, this gift guide is chock full of stocking stuffer ideas for saxophonists that are useful and easy to find.
Cleaning Supplies
Cleaning and maintaining an instrument not only keeps it looking great, but it also helps keep it in prime playing condition, which is why purchasing your saxophonist some spare cleaning supplies is such a good idea. Whether you purchase them an entire maintenance kit or choose to purchase individual products on their own, there are a few essential cleaning supplies every saxophonist should have on hand at all times. Be sure they have a neck brush, chamois swab, a pad saver, mouthpiece brush, and polishing cloths. Although there are specialty cleansers available on the market, in most cases water will do just fine. If you still aren’t sure what to buy, head to a Music & Arts store and speak with a representative, or contact your saxophonist who can tell you what they need and their preferences.
A Box of Their Favorite Reeds
Saxophonists can be quite particular about the type or brand of reeds they use. This is another instance where you may need to speak with your musician for more information about their preferences. Reeds are a great gift for saxophone players because they can never have enough- seriously! In some instances, saxophonists go through a box of reeds a month, so a box of extras would be a welcome gift. If you do decide to purchase a box of saxophone reeds without any background information about their preferences, make sure to grab a gift receipt. Always keep the receipt, no matter what you buy!
Cork Grease
Cork grease is essential for the longevity of the neck’s cork. Easily making these great stocking stuffer ideas for saxophonists. Without it, your saxophonist risks accidentally tearing off some cork while forcing the mouthpiece on and off the neck. When it comes to choosing cork grease, there isn’t much variation between brands. When in doubt, just ask! Your saxophonist will be able to recommend a brand they like. Cork grease is easy to find, and typically very inexpensive. If you’re on a strict budget, this is the most affordable item on the list. Although it’s typically sold in tubes that resemble lip balm or chapstick, it isn’t intended for human consumption- whatever you do, don’t accidentally give it to someone else! As mentioned before, there isn’t a whole lot of variation between brands, so any choice you make should be suitable.
Metronome
Most, if not all, of your saxophonists practicing should be done with a metronome. This makes your purchase a perfect gift! Especially for brand new saxophonists who may not have purchased one on their own yet. A metronome will help them keep time by generating a regular click and whatever tempo they set it to, and some of the more state-of-the-art metronomes even include tuners. Referred to as an all-in-one metronome or a tuner-metronome combo, this is a very useful item for saxophonists, as they can throw one product into their gig bag instead of worrying about purchasing a metronome and tuner separately.
Music Lessons for Saxophonists
Possibly one of the best stocking stuffer ideas for saxophonists! Giving the gift of music (literally) is the gift that keeps on giving. After all, everything else on this list won’t matter if the saxophonist doesn’t even know how to play. Whether you write them a check, send them a gift card, or pay for their lessons in-person or online, your sax player will love that they’re saving money while still getting a premium music education. Music & Arts is the nation’s largest private music lesson provider and teaches over 1 million lessons each year, so it’s a great place to start. For those who truly are impossible to shop for, we also sell gift certificates– just choose any amount between $10 and $2,500.
Shop with Music & Arts
Music & Arts is the #1 holiday destination for musicians and music-lovers this season. From holiday songbooks to instruments, accessories, pro audio gear, and much more, we’re here to help make your holiday merry, bright, and musical this year. Stop in and see us at your local Music & Arts location, or shop online today!
Need more ideas? Check out our list of Essential Saxophone Accessories.
photo via Daniel Go, CC