Singers can be hard to buy for. You can only tolerate so many earrings shaped like treble clefs. Here are some of my favorite studio toys, books, and necessities. I use these for myself and in the studio, and they’d be welcome gifts for any singer!
Of course, these are the THINGS gifts. There are always wonderful experiences to give, like theater tickets, acting classes, and . . voice lessons. ;)
My Favorite Apps!
These are my most-used studio favorites. Many of these have Apple and Android versions, and even online desktop versions.
iReal Pro: Jazz chords and backing tracks
The Amazing Slow-Downer: Change pitch and tempo of songs
Blob Chorus: Fast, fun choir harmony game for all ages
The Most Addicting Sheep Game: Keep the steady beat!
PitchMe: Chromatic tuner helps you sing accurately!
VoiceRecordPro: The best all-around recording app I've seen.
My Favorite Studio Wellness Tools:
NetiPot/Sinus Rinse: Rinse allergies and stuffiness out of your sinuses.
Humidiflyer: Wear on planes to combat dry throat and illness (also jet lag).
VocalMist: Gets hydration right down to your sore throat.
TheraCane: Work out that nasty little knot in your shoulder.
VocalZone lozenges with no Benzocaine, but plenty of power. I used these as I recovered from laryngitis.
Entertainer's Secret throat spray. It WORKS.
Oil of Oregano: Put a tiny drop on your tongue, swallow, and mucus will clear from your throat. DO NOT get it near your eyes. HearFones: Hear your sound, crystal-clear. Wierd-looking but great.
The comely Cathy A. models the latest in HearFones fashion, uh, technology.
Favorite Books l Love to Recommend:
The Secret Life Of The American Musical by Jack Viertel
Finishing The Hat and Look, I Made A Hat by Stephen Sondheim
The Power Of Habit by Charles Duhigg
Musical Theatre: A History by John Kenrick
The Teen Girl's Guide To Singing by Nancy Bos. A great read. The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron
Defying Categorization, But Favorites Nonetheless:
Operaworks emotion cards. These have been a HUGE hit in the studio this year. These cards help singers improve performing. Grab your own set and use them in rehearsals, at your own gigs, and just for fun! Vlogger Kit for self-filming your home rehearsals, Insta videos, and more -- extra important for college-bound performance majors. The kit would include lighting, tripod, microphone and software to edit your videos. Price points vary!
M.W. uses a Theracane and a handheld roller to roll away tension.