What to Get Your Bassoon Playing Friend for the Holidays

          Christmas is almost upon us, so hopefully you've completed all of your holiday shopping. If you haven't there is still time (with rush delivery, of course)! Often times my friends ask me what I'd like for the holidays, and I never have any idea what to tell them. I mean, who wouldn't love their student loans paid off, or a trip to Europe, right? Unfortunately, things like that are out of the price range of most people, so they have to be more creative. What I always LOVE to receive, though, are thoughtful, bassoon related gifts, so here's a short list of gift ideas for your friends who play bassoon, in case you haven't picked something up for them already (click on the images for more information):

Most musicians I know love to enjoy a cup of tea or coffee before rehearsal, so maybe try a bassoon inspired mug for the perfect start to their day!

Some may see bassoon inspired jewelry as a little kitschy, but the thought will never go unappreciated with a nice bassoon lapel pin or pair of earrings!

A bassoonist is nothing without his reeds, so a nice reed case (with pegs) might be just what your friend is looking for this Christmas!

It's probably safer to ask your bassoon playing friend about tools they may need for reed making, but thread, 22-gage brass wire, or even a nice, new, sharp knife always make great stocking stuffers.

Gift cards are the gifts that give twice. Most online double reed retailers offer digital gift certificates, so that your double reed buddies can get exactly what they need!

Paying for rehearsal time with accompanists can be quite the burden, so if you're feeling really creative, find a local pianist and pay them in advance for a session your bassoonist friend will most appreciate! (Be sure to ask for references, though)

If all else fails, offer your buddy a friendly ear. At the end of the day, we're here to perform and to provide a little bit of joy to people the best way we know how. The best gift is support, so support the arts and support the art your bassoon friends work hard to provide every day! Happy Holidays, everyone!