Wrap Up Creativity
Holidays without music would be unthinkable. Sure, you might hear the same version of "The Little Drummer Boy" once too often on the radio, but nothing brings people together like a heartfelt song, especially if they're playing and singing together! The article "Spread the Cheer" on page 30 shows how easy it is to set the stage for musical gatherings. Why not give a musical gift that someone special can start using right away? That way all your guests will be able to appreciate it.
Wired for Sound
To save space in your music room, consider using a central PA system for the keyboards, vocals, and guitars. The Yamaha Stagepas 300M has plenty of volume for home use, and is small enough to fit inconspicuously in the corner. The mixer is hidden away in the back of one of the speakers. With four microphone XLR/quarter-inch inputs and one stereo input, you can tell your holiday guests to leave their amps at home.
MSRP: $790
Keep Them Handy
Don't forget that the most important part of any music room is the instruments. Keep them secure, but handy, for impromptu gatherings and moments of inspiration with music instrument stands or hooks. Hercules Home Series Stands are available for a wide variety of instruments. They have a sturdy lightweight aluminum frame with attractive wood patterned veneer finish and an Auto Grip System that holds instruments securely.
MSRP: $52
Grand Sound
No music room is complete without a piano. Casio's Privia PX-130 digital piano is an affordable solution for authentic acoustic piano sound and feel, without the cost and weight. PX-130 has a full 88-key range with graded touch, meaning the keys at the bass side of the keyboard feel heavier, just like on the real thing. In all, there are 16 different sounds built in, with layering and split function options for more versatility. Weighing only 26 pounds, it's easy to move around.
MSRP: $600
Unwrap This Box
Hand percussion instruments are a great way to keep the beat. Toca Player's Series cajón is a great addition to any music room. Made from gloss finished hardwoods, this cajón comes with an adjustable striking plate that is capable of producing bass tones and crisp slaps. An internal snare system gives the instrument additional definition.
MSRP: $159
Stylish Stands
Music stands are a necessary part of playing music, but the metal kind are often flimsy and can be an eyesore in a music room. These handmade, recycled hardwood stands from Cayuga Woods are both functioning music stands and accent pieces in a music room. They are fully adjustable and come in a wide variety of custom designs, including Art Deco, Mission, and Victorian.
For more information, visit www.musicaccents.com.
MSRP: $250
Mini Guitar
This is a neat little guitar that you can pull out for impromptu holiday music making. The Traveler Guitar has a full-scale fretboard, but is small enough to fit easily and unobtrusively in a closet or behind a chair. The MKII Plain Steel (pictured) features a solid maple neck, alder body, and ebony fretboard, and with the built-in LR Baggs Element-Hybrid system, you can plug it into a PA or amp and jam away.
MSRP: $643
