We all have suffered long enough when faced with the problem of a comfortable chair or stool when performing on stage or practicing.
After spending “almost an entire lifetime” searching for the “PERFECT” solution to this dilemma, I felt compelled to single handedly add comfort and confidence to the world of seated performers.
I spend at least eight to ten hours a day (every day) at my computer and when I finally broke down and purchase a new desk chair, I wanted the best I could afford. As it turned out, the purchase price was not at all what I expected. The chair listed for $250 and was (noticed the operative word “was”) on sale for $97 dollars. I checked today to make sure I listed the correct chair for my readers and found that this particular chair is no longer in stock. But, as you will see, there are several still available with the same features at very reasonable prices.
When stating that this is the best chair/stool, I took into consideration many factors and I have listed a few below.
What makes for the perfect performance chair/stool?
• The seat area must be comfortable.
In addition to comfort, a performance chair/stool should be most comfortable on the front edge where for good posture; a musician will be spending most of his/her time.
• The seating area should be extra wide for those with larger than normal buttocks.
Even though my posterior is about average, I am always looking out for my above average readers.
• The upholstering must be serviceable and of good quality.
When you consider the hundreds of hours we spend in performances and rehearsals, this feature is very important.
• The size and transportability of the seat must be considered.
No matter how serviceable and comfortable the chair is, you should be able to get it to the concert with little effort.
• The position of the legs must be taken into consideration.
As you lean forward to perform, the position of the legs should not interfere with the comfortable position of your feet.
• The cost of the chair/stool should be worth the advantages over traditional solutions.
When you experience the many advantages of this chair/stool, I think you will say it was well worth the expense.
Know, as I said earlier, this same chair is no longer in stock but with careful investigation you should easily find a similar chair in the huge offerings at Staples office supply. I also saw a very similar chair at Walmart last week. Just remember that in order to complete this project, you need to leave the back and arm rests off the seat. The reasoning behind this move is that the complete chair is the most comfortable office chair I have ever sat in and because of that fact; I tended to practice with my back against the chair and eventually began to rest my arms on the arm rests as I played. If you think this is the way to practice, think again young Jedi.
Know, what do I do with this beautiful back rest?
This is a good post; seating can be a big problem. One of my worst memories was playing in a community band performance where we were provided with wimpy substandard (small) folding chairs which sank into the soft ground at the performance venue.
I am 6′ 2″ tall, so I am typically bothered by seats that are too short. My goal is to sit high enough so that my knees are not higher than my hips. (The angles at the knees and hips should be at least 90 degrees.) I’m told that most chairs are designed for a person about five and a half feet tall.
One beneficial feature that your repurposed desk chair has is the height adjustment. My trumpet teacher uses height adjustable piano stools in his studio; these have the same benefit.
When I play in bands, I sometimes stack two chairs together (they have to be the stacking variety of course) to raise the seat to the appropriate height. There are times when this doesn’t work, so I built myself a simple seat raiser. I made a box out of plywood, padded it and upholstered it on top, and added a fabric bottom so that it doesn’t scratch chairs. This results in raising my sitting position by about four inches. My padding/upholstering job is okay, but I’ll bet that a professional could do a better job (albeit at a price).
My device is very-very portable, so it’s helpful for performance situations where I need to change seats quickly without a lot of fuss. There’s space inside for keeping my sheet music, and I also included a simple slide out mute holder that keeps a straight mute handy between my knees.
It works for me.
Best,
-GC-
where could I get one of these chairs fast?
Thanks
Tim
705-817-4975 Ontario Canada
Staples Office Supply.
I got a great price on a full chair with arms but even the arm less models will work. Just find one that is comfortable and take the back off.
I saw several in the $60 price range which would work well.
Thanks for stopping by!