2015 Gift Guide for the Haughtily Music-Obsessed

There are a ton of ways to say “Happy holidays” to a music lover without having to sing it. Here are picks via Andrew Cothern, aka RVA Playlist.

December 1, 2015; 12:00 PM • by Andrew Cothern

The holiday season is upon us and you’re scrambling to find the right gifts. Have someone that likes music on your shopping list but no clue where to start? Whether they’ve been naughty or nice this year, here are a few suggestions for that picky music fan.

THE VINYL LOVER

Get this person an album or a gift card at one of RVA’s many amazing record stores–Steady Sounds, Plan 9, Deep Groove, BK Music, or Vinyl Conflict. Not only will you be contributing to the recipient’s ever-growing vinyl collection, you’ll also be exposing them to the hubs of Richmond’s music community.

THE LIVE MUSIC GOER

This is a no-brainer. Get tickets to a show at one of Richmond’s many, MANY live music venues. A bigger-name band at The National is always a good place to start for those unfamiliar with Richmond’s music scene, but consider looking around for local bands to get your recipient into. Tickets will be cheaper, and you’ll open your pal up to a whole new circle. We post our picks for live shows each month!

THE CLASSICAL-CURIOUS

The Richmond Symphony not only offers the traditional performance of classical mainstays, it also provides a wide variety of innovative performances for all to enjoy, whether it’s the special Video Games Live show or the Union Bank & Trust LolliPops series geared towards young symphony-goers. There are also numerous performances at VCU’s Singleton Center and University of Richmond’s Modlin Center for the Arts. For a more intimate experience, or for someone who’d like to dip their toe into classical waters for the first time, definitely check out Classical Revolution RVA.

THE FOODIE YOU’RE ALWAYS TRYIG TO GET TO GO TO CONCERTS WITH YOU

If you want to introduce your foodie friend to more of Richmond’s music, take them to a music venue that doubles as a great place to eat. There’s some seriously good dishes to enjoy at music venues like the Balliceaux, the Camel, and the Broadberry, so treating them to a gift card or dinner date at these places is a perfect fit for your favorite #RVAdiner.

THE MUSICAL BELTER

Is your special person more Broadway than Modern Rock? No problem. Richmond’s theater community is just as talented and diverse as its music scene. Many of the city’s theaters, including Virginia Repertory Theater, Richmond Triangle Players, and Firehouse Theatre offer a full range of really well-done musical selections. And the 2015-2016 Broadway in Richmond series at the Altria Theater still has Motown: The Musical, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, and The Lion King all on deck.

THE MUSIC HISTORY BUFF

If you have a history lover on your list, get them a ticket for WRIR’s Music History Bus Tour and explore the music spots across the city. Or schedule a visit to the Special Collections and Archives at VCU’s James Branch Cabell Library. Here you can go through Richmond’s own music history, from the beginnings of GWAR to the Red Hot Chili Peppers’ concert at Shafer Court in 1989. It’s free, but appointments are recommended.

THE ASPIRING MUSICIAN

If you need a gift for a new instrumentalist, consider something from Guitar Works in Carytown. They offer plenty of musical options and a variety of lessons with skilled teachers. If your musician already knows how to play, make their holiday seriously cool by scheduling a recording session at a local studio. There’s many to choose from including Red Amp Audio, Viking Recording, Montrose Recording, Sound of Music Studios, Sound Check Studios, In Your Ear Studios, and many others. It could be just the thing to get their music to new ears.

THE MUSIC LISTENER YOU’RE TRYING TO IMPRESS

Make them a mixtape of your favorite Richmond bands. Need help making one? Here’s a more in-depth look at the process, free of charge. You’re welcome!

December 1, 2015 12:00 PM 0