Benches and Chairs

When you’re learning, it’s generally accepted that you should be seated while playing, as this helps you learn the correct position for your hands and arms (more about positions and posture in the next chapter). So whether you’re playing an acoustic or electric instrument, you’ll want to get hold of a good bench or chair.

In some rock or fusion music situations, a standing keyboard player can contribute to the energy and visual appeal of the live performance. I performed with a hard rock band in various venues along Hollywood’s Sunset Strip in the early ’90s, and I always stood up. However, on almost all other occasions (particularly the jazz and fusion gigs I have done in recent years), I have been seated when performing.

A piano bench is normally three feet wide, with a flat surface, either wooden or padded (the latter is definitely more comfortable for those long practice sessions!). Also, the better benches have an adjustable height feature, which can be very helpful for your position and posture.

The main differences between the piano chair and the bench, is that the chair has a back, and is not as wide. The better chairs have padding, and some also allow you to adjust the height. Having the back, though, can be something of a double-edged sword, as it may be tempting to slump against it, rather than developing a “straight-spine” position (more on this later). Most piano benches are also a bit taller than your average dinner-table chair, and height is very important as we will see in the next chapter.