Choosing the Perfect Music Stand
The right music stand is crucial for a smooth and productive practice and performance when pursuing music. One often overlooked yet essential item is the music stand. Having your music stand fail can quickly turn a great performance into a disaster.
In this article, we will discuss what to look for in a music stand, compare the different types of music stands, and provide insights on how to choose the best music stand for your specific needs.
What to Look For in a Music Stand
Stability
A stable music stand is arguably one of the most important factors. Most music stands have tripod bases with 3 legs providing ample floor support to keep the stand steady. It's important to have a strong tray that supports whatever you're reading from, whether it's sheet music, a music book, or a tablet.
Extendibility
Most stands feature extendable heights which is great for people who like to shift between sitting or standing. This also means you can share with others who may be taller or shorter. Be careful not to over-extend the height making the stand's center of gravity too high. A heavier stand will be better for outdoor performances and prevent the wind from blowing it down.
Versatility
Preventing neck pain is something we all strive for. Most music stands have adjustable trays that rotate and tilt horizontally and vertically at various degrees. A great quality stand will be sturdy and lock at your desired angle with minimal movement to your neck.
Compactibility
For the avid musician who travels often, choosing a music stand that can be folded down for transportation is high on your list. While some stands can only be reduced at the shaft, there are music stands that feature removable trays and can fold into compact bags.
Durability
The build material of a stand is imperative to how durable it will be in the future. Most commonly, the price of the stand dictates how well-built and high-quality it is. Materials such as steel are strong and rigid, while aluminum frames are lightweight and easy to transport.
The Different Types of Music Stands
Tripod Stand
The tripod stand is popular among musicians due to its stability and portability. It typically features adjustable height options and a foldable design, making it easy to transport and set up in various environments. Musicians who frequently travel or perform in different locations often find the tripod stand a versatile option.
The tripod stand can be purchased with various trays holding sheet music, laptops, tablets, and mobile devices. The Yorkville BS-321 is a great example of a tripod music stand that doesn’t break the bank.
Yorkville Sound Heavy Duty Collapsible Music Stand with Bag
Conductor Stand
Conductor stands are specifically engineered to accommodate the needs of conductors leading orchestras or ensembles. These stands are often larger and sturdier, providing ample space for holding multiple sheet music or conducting scores.
They are typically height adjustable and have a wide surface area, allowing conductors to follow complex musical compositions. The Manhasset Regal Conductor’s Stand is a popular conductor stand with a shelf for extra storage.
Manhasset Regal Conductor’s Stand
Folding Music Stand
Folding music stands are lightweight and easily foldable for convenient storage and transportation. These stands are great for musicians seeking a simple and affordable option for holding sheet music.
The folding music stands are affordable and compact but less sturdy if holding larger books. The RAT Scherzo stand is a great folding stand that is super lightweight thanks to its aluminum construction.
Traditional Music Stand
The traditional music stand constructed from wood or metal embodies a classic design that has stood the test of time. It offers a sturdy and reliable platform for holding sheet music. Some models feature additional accessories such as storage trays or adjustable angles for personalized comfort. These stands are generally less portable since they don’t fold.
The Manhasset Symphony stand is a popular traditional music stand. If you ever played in a school band chances are you have used one of these.
Tabletop Stand
Tabletop stands are a practical solution for musicians who prefer to have their sheet music placed on a stable surface, such as a table or desk. These compact music stands are often adjustable and secure for holding sheet music. They are an excellent option for musicians who practice or perform in confined spaces. Manhasset makes a great tabletop stand that is durable and sturdy.
Manhasset Tabletop Music Stand
How to Choose the Right Music Stand
There is no best music stand for every situation. The best music stand is the one that works for your specific scenario. For example, the Manhasset Symphony stand is popular, but not ideal for a traveling musician because of its lack of portability.
Selecting the right music stand depends on various factors, including your specific musical requirements, performance settings, and personal preferences. It’s important to consider all the factors such as stability, extendibility, versatility, compactibility, and durability before purchasing a music stand.
Long and McQuade sells a variety of music stands and you can view them all on our music stand product page. You can also visit your local Long & McQuade store and our experienced staff can show you various stands and find the perfect one for you!
