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Sure, artists like Alicia Keys and Chris Martin occasionally show off their piano chops while standing up, but for most piano players, the best way to tickle the ivories is seated on a good piano bench, with keys at waist level and pedals within reach.
Even if you’re just looking for a piece of furniture to add a decorative element to your room, a good piano bench does not need to be extravagant. A simple bench with wooden construction and black leather (or faux leather) tufted upholstery is a classic to complement baby grand and modest upright pianos alike. They’re great for digital pianos and keyboards too. The best piano benches are so versatile, many people skip the piano altogether and use such benches as hallway or dressing room furniture.
Whatever the case, the best piano benches provide a few basic functions. For starters, it should be well-constructed from quality materials and sturdy enough to withstand a significant amount of weight. Particularly if you’re looking for a two-seater bench rather than a single-seater, the bench should be able to hold two adult-sized people. The bench should also be comfortable enough to accommodate long practice sessions, which is why we’re fans of the tufted cushions. Most piano benches will also open to reveal a storage compartment for sheet music and other accessories. The size and strength of storage depends on the bench and how well it is made, so double check that the bench you’re considering is suited to what you need it for.
Since our top-of-mind concern for these benches is convenience, we also look for pieces that are relatively easy to assemble and move around.
