Space and Sightlines in Your Music Room
Space and Sightlines in Your Music Room
October 4, 2019
Optimizing your music room starts with smart planning and the right equipment. Your space should support what you want to achieve, whether it’s rehearsals, performances, or storage. The layout and tools you choose play a big role in how functional and comfortable the room will be.
Ideally, this planning begins during the construction phase. Knowing exactly how much space you need allows those requirements to be built into the design from the start. Of course, we know that’s not always an option, especially if you’re working in an existing facility with no renovation plans on the horizon.
One challenge that music programs can face, especially if they have a long room, is sightlines. The students in the back may have a difficult time seeing the director and vice versa. This can cause problems in communication.
The solution to this is to use risers or a conductor’s podium.
Choosing the right risers starts with asking the right questions. First, what type do you need: band risers, seated choir risers, or standing choir risers? Each serves a different purpose, so knowing your primary use is key.
Next, think about logistics. How much storage space do you have? If you need to take the risers down, do you have room to store them? Different models have different storage requirements. Finally, consider how often you’ll set them up and take them down. If they’ll move frequently between a practice room and performance space, or if you have a small crew, look for risers that are quick and easy to assemble.
When looking at the overall space in your room, make sure there is floor space for risers. Ideally, this would be made sure of during the construction phase, but as we mentioned earlier, that isn’t always possible. Make sure to allow adequate space for access and for storing other equipment. Find efficient ways to store all of your other equipment if extra space needs to be made for risers.
Whether or not you use risers, a seated choir or band means you’ll need chairs, and an efficient way to store and move them. Choose chairs that stack easily and consider adding a transport cart to make setup and teardown quick and hassle-free.
When planning your music room, think about efficient storage for all your equipment. If space allows, adding risers can improve sightlines and elevate the overall concert experience. And don’t forget to keep the factors above in mind when choosing the right risers for your needs.
Contact our experts so they can help put together a system that’s perfect for you.
