Most Basic Types of Piano Benches Through The Years

June 8th, 2009

There are many reasons why people would have antique piano benches in their home. Some are family heirlooms filled with memories while others are prized possessions. The earliest antique piano seating was actually the piano stool. We most often see this type of three legged stool in the saloon scenes from old western movies. Prior to the early 1840s the two main styles for the piano stool were wood with a very simple design or elaborately carved pieces.

Over the decade which followed this we see the introduction of serpentine shaped seats, delicate floral motifs, and beautifully carved cabriole legs. In America and England three legged Victorian piano stools had legs which had been elaborately carved and cushioned seats.

In the 1860s we get the introduction of the piano chair. Initially piano chairs had three legs and back which featured delicate carvings. The piano bench which is most familiar to our modern eyes is first seen in the 1970s. Many piano benches featured a storage compartment under the top which provided room for sheet music.

Embroidery or needlepoint was often used to embellish the bench seat. When it comes to piano benches we see that there remains the influence of the Victorain style well into the 1920s. Often the piano benches of this time period will feature lovely glass ball and claw feet and delicate turned legs. Piano benches were made by a company other than the piano manufacturer, using design specifications which had been provided by the piano maker.

When it comes to antique piano benches there are three main types. The first one is the standard rectangular piano bench. These come in standard heights and are not adjustable. The concert piano bench will feature circular knobs which allow you to adjust the height. You will also usually find a plush padded seat on a concert piano bench. The most unusually type of piano bench is the piano chair. These were not the standard option available when you purchased a piano and many pianists thought them to be uncomfortable.