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    • Instrument Setup and Sitting
  • Home
  • Teachers
    • Laney
    • Alan
  • Contact
    • Contact Form
    • Child/Teen New Student Form
    • Adult New Student Form
  • Piano
    • Ages 4-5
    • Children/Teen Beginners
    • Adult Beginners
    • Intermediate/Advanced
    • Online
  • Cello
  • Tuition
  • News
    • Past Recitals
    • Student Spotlight
  • Portal
  • Resources
    • Calendar
    • Recommended Apps
    • Studio Policy
    • Instrument Requirements and Recommendations
    • Instrument Setup and Sitting

Instrument Setup and Sitting

Having the proper setup and then sitting appropriately at the piano or keyboard makes playing much easier and more comfortable. To check your set-up, please refer to my page on instrument requirements. I will post a brief setup checklist below.

Piano/Keyboard Setup Checklist

  • A stand that allows student to have their knees slightly under the keyboard
  • Adjustable bench that allows student to play with their arms level to the keys
  • A stool or pedal extender if the student's feet do not reach the floor with their arms level to the keys
  • A pedal
Links to all the items mentioned above can be found on the instrument requirements page linked above.

Checklist for Properly Sitting at the Piano/Keyboard

Below is a checklist to make sure the student is sitting in a way that is comfortable and conducive to effective playing. I have also found some images that illustrate the points on the list.
  • Arms level with piano keys; wrists level with arms
    • No "zombie arms" (too far away) or "T-Rex arms" (too close)
  • Feet flat on floor or stool
  • Knees just under keys
  • Sitting on the first half on the bench
  • Sitting up straight
  • Shoulders relaxed
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Online Device Angle

For online students, please place and leave your device off to the side of your instrument so that:
  • you can easily look over and see me and what I'm showing
  • I can easily see your face and hands
Below is a reference photo. A stand for tablets and a table at the height of the piano is recommended to achieve this angle.
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Links for Stands

Below are links for an iPad stand and laptop stand that I recommend for an optimal setup.
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Elitehood Ipad Tripod Stand, Height Adjustable iPad Stand Holder & iPad Floor Stand with 360° Rotating iPad Tripod Mount for iPad Mini, iPad Air, iPad Pro and All 7.9-11.9 Inch Tablets
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GLEAM Laptop Stand - Projector Stand DJ Rack Tripod Up to 40" for Computer, Book, DJ Equipment
G-VV94DLZ3RT