Everyone is looking for some way to make their daily lives a little bit better. Whether it’s a gadget or a novelty instrument to improve your music-making, the choices out there can get overwhelming! Don’t worry, we’re here to help. Here are 15 of our favorite items that will help you create and enjoy music in the classroom, on the road, or at home.
1. Overseas Connection G-839 Firikyiwa
This African castanet is hand-forged from iron and a great tool for drum circles, classrooms, or any large group ensemble where you just need to keep the beat. The clear, high-pitched tone cuts through even the most rambunctious players. You need this instrument because it can be played one-handed, leaving your other hand free to conduct or assist other players! The firikyiwa is placed on the middle finger and struck with an iron ring worn on the thumb. Firikyiwas are fun to play and the perfect instrument for leading accurate rhythms in a large group.
2. Latin Percussion LP1429 Bongo Cajon
Get a bongo sound… from a Cajon! This LP Bongo Cajon produces two complementary high/low pitches to provide rich and traditional bongo tones. The sides are tapered, making it easy to hold between your knees, but it also works great on your lap, floor, or tabletop. You need a Bongo Cajon to get the signature two-tone bongo sound in a more portable instrument. No stand to worry about – this Bongo Cajon even comes with a drawstring bag to protect and carry it with you.
3. Latin Percussion LP0020BK Big Egg Shakers
Go big or go home! We’re just teasing you; the LP Big Egg Shaker will add a spark into your shaker game. These big eggs measure in at 3 inches, are constructed with wipe-clean plastic, and filled with non-toxic steel shot. Students and adults alike will enjoy holding it and hearing the louder sound that it brings to your ensemble. If you need a big shaker sound, look no further!
4. Remo Flareout DJ-7113-61 13” Key-Tuned Djembe
The Remo Flareout is like no djembe you’ve seen before. It is made with an Acousticon® drum shell flared out body design featuring a high-density impact rubber base protector, a weather-resistant drumhead, and a key-tuned system for easy tuning and replaceability. Not only is this drum unique looking (check out the different finish options!); it also brings increased bass tones, sharper slap tones, and exceptional projection. This blend of style and sound is a must-have for any drummer!
5. Westco TA5205 Plastic Foot Tambourine
Everyone needs a foot tambourine – yes, even you! Keeping the beat has never been easier. This plastic foot tambourine is durable and easy to slip over any shoe. The double row of steel jingles is crisp and the ring of the jingle is just right. If you are a music teacher, music student, music therapist, guitar player, percussionist… the list goes on and on… you need this! Great to keep a steady beat, leaving your hands free to conduct, play an instrument, or show off your best arms-only dance moves. We like The Robot.
6. LA Music RP75 Rhythm Pick
It’s a pick! It’s a shaker! It’s a rhythm pick! This shaker/pick combination features a 75mm guitar pick molded into a black shaker egg. This pick takes multi-tasking seriously, creating a rhythmic beat while you strum your guitar. You need this pick if you are a guitar player who needs that extra punch to your solo act. Music therapists also love the rhythm pick – it’s comfortable to hold for right- or left-handed players, or for anyone with a limited grasp. Add some rhythm to your guitar playing!
7. Firestix FX12BL Light Up Drumsticks (Color Changing)
Color changing light up drumsticks. Need we say more? These Firestix drumsticks are made of durable synthetic material, and they change colors with each impact, creating a truly dramatic effect on stage. They visually enhance any performance but are especially great for percussion ensembles or drum solos. These sticks make a great gift for the aspiring drummer or for any percussionist who needs a little more glam in their performance.
8. D’Andrea 4PACMON Monster Picks, 4 Pack
These monster picks aren’t just mega-sized, they also have some mega-awesome uses! Monster picks are 4” x 4.75” in size and are perfect to use with autoharps, guitars, and other strummed instruments. You need this if you are a music therapist or a person with small hands. These picks are comparable in size to a large adult’s palm, so they are easy to grasp. Get strumming with these Monster Picks!
9. Troubadour Ukulele Chord Changer
Ready to play ukulele today? The Troubadour Chord Changer allows you to play any soprano ukulele by pressing the chord changer buttons while strumming the uke strings. We love the chord changer because it makes the ukulele more accessible to all players, particularly to those with limited finger dexterity, special learners, or those in music therapy. Its sturdy construction and button system make a ukulele playable on a lap or tabletop surface. Ukulele players can find success right away with this incredible product.
10. HUG Strap Handmade Ukulele Strap
Ukulele straps have always been a pain – they require drilling or clip-ons, and they always fall when you least expect it. If you are sick of trying to find the right strap for your uke, you need a HUG Strap! The HUG Strap fits any size ukulele (as well as banjoleles) from soprano to baritone, and is adjustable at multiple points to get the fit just right. No drilling, no hooking in the soundhole, no adapter needed. The strap hugs the body of your ukulele and supports your uke hands-free. A game-changer for teachers, performers, and ukulele enthusiasts everywhere!
11. Nuvo Recorder Plus
One of the most challenging parts for children in playing recorders is making sure the holes are completely covered. If you or your students struggle with this, you need a Nuvo Recorder+. The patented silicone key flaps make it easy for even the smallest hands to completely cover tone holes. This instrument is fully chromatic and plays just like a standard recorder. Parents will like how easy it is to wash – you can use hot, soapy water to clean it, or stick it in the top rack of your dishwasher. Kids will love choosing from one of the 7 color combinations available to make the Nuvo Recorder+ their own. Teachers will appreciate the larger tone holes, which mellow the sound. Did we mention the flaps reduce the likelihood of squeaks? Now that’s something for everyone to love!
12. Hamilton KB90 The Traveler II Portable Music Stand w/Bag
Have you ever arrived at a gig, only to find out they only have one rusty old music stand stuck at the wrong height? Maybe you are looking for a sturdy practice stand that won’t get knocked over by a gust of wind. This Hamilton portable music stand will save your practice and performance! This stand has the portability of a wire stand with the stability of a less portable version. The custom bag comes with a padded shoulder strap and a convenient pocket for sheet music. Traveling musicians need this stand.
13. Blackstar ToneLink Bluetooth Receiver
This handy device turns almost any amp into a wireless stereo audio receiver! With this, you can listen to audio or jam along with tracks without the inconvenience of cables. This receiver can be used with a variety of equipment – guitar amps, PAs, mixer desks, AV systems, home stereos, headphones, car speakers, boats, and more. You can even use it as a hands-free Bluetooth speaker with a phone, laptop, tablet, or any Bluetooth compatible device. Whether you are jamming out in the garage or just need that extra volume at an event, the Blackstar ToneLink will come to the rescue.
14. Makey Makey Classic
Two words: banana piano. You read that correctly. The Makey Makey Classic puts the A(rts) in STEAM education. By turning everyday objects into touchpads, you can turn just about anything into a piano. No programming experience required, just plug, clip, and play! Anyone who is ready to get creative and explore the scientific side of music needs this item. What can you turn into a piano?
15. The Music Educator’s Guide to Grant Writing
The Music Educator’s Guide to Grant Writing by Ashleigh Lore is the book that pays for itself. This step-by-step guide provides educators and would-be grant writers with valuable insight and strategies into the grant writing process. This guide shows that grant writing is not as difficult as it might seem, as long as you know the steps to take. With dozens of writing samples within each section, you’ll find yourself with an award-winning grant application.
Whether you’re a traveling musician who has just found your new favorite stand, a parent who just found a new STEAM experiment to try at home, or a music teacher who finally found a reliable ukulele strap, we hope these items will make your life better. You can shop for any of the items mentioned in this blog by clicking the red links. Now, we’re off to tap our tambourine toes and shake some big eggs!
Jessica Palmer is the Director of National Sales. Prior to joining the West Music team, she taught preschool and elementary music programs in both the general music classroom and beyond. She is an active musical director for community theater working with both children and adults. Jessica loves helping teachers find the right resources for their classroom and making sure they feel supported through every step of their musical journey.
