The 10 Best Keyboard Benches
This wiki has been updated 40 times since it was first published in September of 2015. Whether you're a professional music producer, a concert performer or a piano student, you'll need the support of one of these keyboard benches to play and practice. Designed for comfort and functionality, many of our options offer thick cushions, built-in storage compartments, and adjustable height settings, so you can concentrate on delivering the best performance possible. When users buy our independently chosen editorial selections, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. OnStage Deluxe
2. CPS Artist Bench
3. Roland RPB-500PE
Editor's Notes
May 02, 2020:
When I think about an instrument bench, I'm reminded of my childhood days of visiting my piano teacher's home and practicing my scales, while watching her demonstrate the complexities of playing music on a traditional keyboard. In those days, I didn't consider things like digital pianos or cushy seats as being very common. My teacher's bench was constructed from bulky (but smooth) hardwood that was easy to slide around on. Despite always being encouraged by my parents and this teacher, I was often quite nervous when I had my music lessons. For one thing, I was always afraid of making mistakes and so I took them personally. Making mistakes is part of the learning process when developing skills that aren't innate, regardless of the type of keyboard being played. My nervousness was a result of me being hard on myself. When this occurred, my back would sweat, my butt got hot, itchy, and I just got tired of sitting in one place. If that bench had been more cushioned and breathable, I might have been able to maintain my composure and concentration a bit longer. The good news today is that with the advent of high-tech studio gear like headphones, there's been a real shift in equipment design toward ensuring user comfort and convenience during extended recording sessions or performances. Our list of keyboard benches is no exception.
We've included a variety of models that can be easily paired with traditional pianos and/or digital synthesizers, depending on your needs. Both The Roland RPB-500PE and Songmics Stool feature thick cushions and height adjustment knobs and they are durable enough to support heavy loads and withstand long practice sessions. These are good options for use in a professional music studio or living room with a large piano.
We've also added the OnStage Deluxe and RockJam KB100. Their collapsible design makes them convenient options for travel, particularly when storage is a problem.
If you're teaching young students or performing a duet with a fellow musician, we've included models like the Bonnlo Deluxe and Yaheetech Stool to accommodate the additional length needed, the former of which has a waterproof cushion in case of spills.
If you're a busy producer who moves around in a chair a lot, the Jean Paul Reprize is a dependable option, thanks to the piping along its top edge that reinforces the seams, protecting the cushion from cracking and tearing as a result of constant wear.
Finally, the K&M Stands 14080 might be one of our pricier options, but its compact size, large handlebar, and pneumatic lifting function make it a convenient choice for use in production studios.
Special Honors
Hungry For Music Hungry For Music is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life by placing musical instruments into the hands of young aspiring artists (namely school children) who could not otherwise afford them. For over 25 years, the organization has donated everything from guitars and trombones to violins and xylophones to kids in 49 states and 30 countries. So, whether it's for parents who can't afford to purchase musical instruments for their children, band teachers with students who are unable to participate in a school's program due to high costs, or community music programs looking for financial support, Hungry For Music can deliver. hungryformusic.com
4. Bonnlo Deluxe
5. RockJam KB100
6. Jean Paul Reprize
7. Songmics Stool
8. Griffin Double
9. Yaheetech Stool
10. K&M Stands 14080
Why It Might Be Time For A New Keyboard Bench
Practice may be the most important part of being a musician, but using the right equipment is also imperative if you want to play well.
Practice may be the most important part of being a musician, but using the right equipment is also imperative if you want to play well. Here are a few reasons why you ought to consider investing in a new keyboard bench.
First, keyboardists are better able to focus on their craft when they feel comfortable. Playing one of Beethoven's classics is no easy task, but it's all the more difficult when you're suffering from back pain. A carefully designed bench can save you from distracting aches and pains, freeing your mind. Furthermore, since playing requires coordination, any stress in the body will come through in your performance. If you don't feel relaxed and comfortable, your audience is likely to hear it in your work.
A good bench will help with the technical aspects of performance, too. Without a quality place to sit, locating the pedals and reading sheet music can be a challenge. And, if your bench lacks sufficient padding, it's possible you could be stricken with paresthesia in the middle of a recital. The condition of paresthesia is actually not as scary as it sounds (it's the medical term for what we experience when our limbs fall asleep), but it can be pretty problematic when it occurs during a performance.
If your skills as a keyboardist are a point of pride, cutting a professional appearance during performances is probably important to you, as well. There's no point in tickling the ivories while seated on an old, unappealing bench when there are affordable options out there that are as functional as they are nice to look at. It's time to prove to guests (and to yourself) that you take your playing seriously by bringing a stylish bench into your music room.
Music enthusiasts everywhere know that not having the right equipment can make it harder to practice, learn, and perform. So, it's time to stop sacrificing your creative growth and purchase a brand new bench. The positive effect it will have on your playing may surprise you.
What To Look For In A Keyboard Bench
With so many keyboard benches to choose from, it can be difficult to pinpoint just the right one for your needs. But if you keep these features in mind, the process should be easy and enjoyable.
Since keyboards, pianos, synthesizers, and similar instruments come in a variety of heights, you'll want to make sure your bench is the appropriate size for your equipment. A bench that is just a bit too short or too tall may not seem like a big deal, but the wrong height can impact your ability to play properly. If you happen to have more than one instrument, there are plenty of height-adjustable benches on the market.
Some benches come with hollow interiors that can be used for storage.
Consider where you will be using your bench and how often you plan on moving it. If you intend to take your bench with you to performances or recitals, you may want to pick one that folds flat. Similarly, if you have limited space, a folding bench is a smart choice, as this type of product can be quickly collapsed and hidden away under the bed or inside a closet. Those lucky enough to have access to a dedicated music room can opt for a sturdier model that is designed to be put on display.
If you have music accessories laying around that you haven't managed to organize, the right bench can help simplify the task of keeping your music area tidy. Some benches come with hollow interiors that can be used for storage. Throw in your sheet music, books, and other equipment. With everything located neatly in one spot, you won't end up wasting practice time searching for misplaced supplies.
The style of your future bench is another aspect to review. As you search, you'll notice that most benches come in understated colors like black and brown, though there are alternative options available. In terms of material, leather and faux-leather upholstery is popular and has a classic look. Folding benches tend to have legs made out of metal, while fixed models are often equipped with wood legs. For an especially elegant appearance and the most comfort possible, go for a bench with a tufted cushion.
The Benefits Of Playing Music
If you're shopping for a keyboard bench, you may already be familiar with the benefits of learning to play an instrument. For everyone else, we've outlined some of the bonuses that come with being a musician.
For everyone else, we've outlined some of the bonuses that come with being a musician.
It may seem strange, but playing music is good for your physical health. Depending on the instrument you choose, you will likely notice improvements in your breathing, posture, and coordination. Music can also help to relieve stress, which we now know can contribute to the development of various health problems such as heart disease.
Learning to play an instrument is also wonderful for the brain. Playing music promotes brain development in children and can enhance the cognitive abilities of adults, as well. It's great for memory and problem-solving, and has been linked with better performance in other subjects, like math and science.
Additionally, there's strong evidence to suggest that performing music in a group has social advantages. Being able to work in concert with others requires collaboration and compromise, which are crucial skills for successful social interaction outside of the music room. Children, in particular, can benefit from this aspect of musical performance.
Finally, music encourages creativity. Playing an instrument can be a structured activity or a more abstract exercise, giving musicians the freedom to interpret pieces and even come up with their own compositions. Most subjects in school are instruction-based and don't give students much of a chance to explore their artistic side. Playing music, on the other hand, is an opportunity for self-expression, which builds confidence and self-esteem.
Jeff is a dedicated writer and communications professional from San Francisco with a bachelor of arts in anthropology from UC Berkeley. He began his career in computer consulting and later branched out into customer service. Jeff focuses on making complex topics easy to understand. With over 10 years' experience in research, his relentless curiosity fuels a love of writing and learning how things work, and has helped to build expertise in categories such as heavy-duty power tools and computer equipment. Jeff's passion for animals affords him a strong understanding of pet products, including dog houses, beds, and grain-free foods. When he's not writing, he prefers spending time with his family and three dogs, while kicking back and relaxing with a nice glass of red wine.