Why Don’t Piano Benches Have Backs?

Ted's List
Classical Music Hub
3 min read2 days ago
Why Don’t Piano Benches Have Backs?

Have you ever wondered why piano benches don’t have backs?

As a pianist who’s spent much time on a bench, there’s a good reason for it. The backless design is essential for how we play and sit comfortably with the piano.

When we sit down to play the piano, it’s not just our fingers that move; our whole body joins the fun. Being able to move around and sway is important for reaching the keys just right, and having a bench with a back would get in the way.

Trust me, there’s a good reason for this — think of it as music in the method!

So, keep reading, and I’ll guide you through the smart design and practical reasons those benches don’t have backs. It’s an exciting topic you won’t want to miss!

Ergonomics and Technique

When I’m on the prowl for the perfect piano bench, I’ve got to think about more than just the paint job.

It’s like finding a trusty comrade for those musical marathons, and I’ve learned a thing or two about what to look for.

Factors in Choosing the Right Bench

SIZE

Let’s talk size for a second; for my grand piano, I’m after something about 35 inches wide — snug enough for solos but spacious for duets.

HEIGHT

Height is another biggie. I need my feet flat on the ground for that proper posture, so I look for benches about 18 to 24 inches high.

MATERIAL

Material is the cornerstone of my bench hunt. I want quality to endure my daily serenades, but my budget can only sometimes afford top-shelf stuff. Solid wood benches offer me that sweet mix of sturdiness and style.

COLOR

As for color, let’s say I want something that doesn’t clash with my room’s vibe.

piano bench in black

Adjustability and Support Features

a piano and a bench

I would make sure to use an adjustable bench. When I can tweak the height with a turn of a knob or a flick of a lever, it’s like the bench was made for me.

Some models have a sly storage area under the seat, perfect for stashing my sheet music and metronome.

Now for the posh stuff: a pneumatic mechanism.

This fancy bit lets me adjust my throne with the grace of a swan — no clunky noises or herculean effort needed. And when I hit the shops, armed with my specs and desires, it’s a real quest.

Interested in exploring the complete article featuring our product recommendations? Click here to read it.

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Ted's List
Classical Music Hub

Ted’s List is THE go-to community if you need advice or reviews on anything related to music & instruments.