Pianos have a life span of anywhere from 50 to 100 years. Piano benches on the other hand, usually get lost, borrowed, stolen or simply broken, leaving the pianos without a proper bench.
Many times, any home chair would simply do the job. However, with today's availability of benches in different assortments, it is worth the while to come up with a few dollars, bite the bullet, and get the proper bench for your playing comfort.
Here are some guidelines for selecting the proper bench.
1. Height. The standard piano bench that comes with every new piano is a duet bench. The height is typically 19 to 20 inches high built for the average adult. If you have a child learning to play piano, you will need a bench with an adjustable height. Adjustable benches, also called artist benches range from height adjustments of 18 to 23 inches high. This would give great seating comfort to the child. I've seen many cases where parents would use a thick telephone book as a booster seat. This is only a temporary measure. If you want your child to be motivated, get a proper bench.
2. Padding. Padding is extremely important for skinny people who do not have inherent padding from their body shape. Prolonged periods of playing piano on a hard top bench can cause extreme discomfort from what we call the "sore bum" syndrome. Consider benches that come with thick padding. Another alternative is to get or make bench cushions for additional comfort.
3. Seat measurements. Benches come in single or duet size. The widths vary anywhere from 18 inches to 42 inches long. The standard size that can seat two average built persons is 30 inches long x 14 inches wide. This would come in handy for playing duets.
4. Music storage compartment. If you like being tidy and orderly, consider a bench with a music storage compartment for your music books, especially if you do not own a music book cabinet. Many benches come with a lift-up music storage compartment that can accommodate at least 6 to 10 music books. If you live in a condo apartment or are short of space, a bench with a music storage compartment is your answer.
5. Budget. How much are you willing to pay for a bench - this will influence your decision. Additional features usually costs extra. Find out what you are willing to compromise.
You will find that it is not easy to find one bench that fulfills all your requirements. Like anything else, you will need to sort out your priorities. Shop around, do some research by visiting different websites of online piano stores. There are plenty of choices, chances are: with a little work, you could find just the perfect bench for you or your family.