Gift suggestions for my cellist friend?
Hi all, I need gift suggestions for a cellist friend of mine. She is an intermediate player. I give her a gift every holiday season and I'm out of ideas this year. If she was a violinist I would find this easier. I'm hoping some of you might have some cello-specific suggestions for me.
Anything really special (CD set, books, unusual) out there for cellists? Last year I got her a GC to Lincoln Center which was great, but I hate repeating! I can spend $50-75.
Replies (10)
No... I search and didn't see any. There is "art of cello teaching" but it's really not what you want...
If she is a Rostropovich fan there is a wonderful DVD on his art and life
http://www.amazon.com/Rostropovich-Life-Art-DVD-Video/dp/B000V9B7QG
Youtube things aren't "gifts" but there also is a very interesting documentary on Jacqueline Du Pré there. Perhaps some of Yo yo Ma or more modern players too?
The book The World Of Music According To Starker by Janos Starker is a terrific read. Your friend might have already read it though.
Gift cards are nice too.
An oversize chinrest.
Any painting imitations or real paintings of a scene with a cello you can buy? Perhaps you might be talented ennough to paint it yourself if it's too expensive? Doesn't have to be perfect or gigantic either.
Where I practice, I have a hung on the wall a beautiful painting of a violin (as the most important item on the painting). With my music stand, miniature keybord and plant beside it, it gives a very antique and chic look. It's inspiring...
Generally girls like indoor design/deco items so I don't think it's too risky...
Anne-Marie
How about a coupon from her Luthiers to get her bow restrung? That would be about the same price and would be sure to be needed.
I like the coupon to the luthier's idea, or even a gift certificate to Shar. I would be so thankful for something like that. I've had to go without strings and rehairs so many times and it's just not fun to be playing on failing equipment.
I once bought a set of Jacqueline du Pre's complete concerto recordings. They have inspired me greatly and I'm a violinist. Can't imagine what they'd be like to a cellist. But she may have these already. Good luck in your search.
Roland, ought it not be an oversized SHOULDER rest? Let the shouting begin!
If this cellist has a sense of humor, get her the two Suites For Cello All By Its Lonesome by PDQ Bach. Like the rest of his work, they're well-done. One memorable movement has a title like "Sarabanda Carmen Miranda".
I think the suggestion of a gift certificate to Shar Music would be great for any string player...just sent one to a former student of mine who is now in college and she was very happy to receive it.
Any kind of gifts that comes from you will be fabulous! why? because you are her friend. She probably have everything related to cello, so think of something else. Whatever it is, she'll be thrilled for sure!
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October 10, 2010 at 09:48 PM ·
Hi, there is a wonderful Art of x instrument collection. In this DVD collection, there is "Art of the violin" DVD, an "Art of Piano" DVD and a "Art of conducting" DVD. It's many streams from various old masters commented by younger masters! Is their an Art of the Cello DVD? If yes, jump on it... It might be really a nice gift!
Certainly not a mute ; ) This would set a fight!
Good luck,
Anne-Marie