Piano lamps are specifically designed to shed focused light on music, reading material, or any other work. They have long shades that encircle the bulbs so that the light projects from one concentrated area. Most piano lamps have shades that swivel and adjustable arms so that you can further fine-tune the direction of the light.

Lamps for pianos come with a light switch to turn the lamp on and off. Some switches are located on the base of the lamp, some on the shade, and others in the power cord close to the lamp. All switch locations are conveniently located for easy access.
These Lamps are made to work best with specific piano types. There are lamp styles that work better on Grand Pianos such as clip-on lamps that clamp to the music desk (lined with felt so they will not scratch), and others that work better on Upright Pianos like lamps with a solid base. Some piano lamps, such as Balance Arm Lamps or Floor Lamps are versatile enough to work for any type of piano. Also available are battery-operated lamps, which work on pianos and music stands and are great for transporting. These lamps also come in handy when access to an electrical outlet is limited or non-existing.

Piano lamps can also be used in other areas of the home or office. They are solidly built and durable, but light enough to be transported from place to place.

Piano lamp technology has taken a step into the future with energy efficient LED lamps that not only save energy, but produce light from 20,000 - 100,000 hours on a single LED array (bulb). These lamps emit a warm white non-glare light. They have become popular for their energy efficiency and for their slim attractive design.

Piano lamps come in many different styles and designs so there is plenty of variety when looking to purchase a lamp. Some of the more popular finishes are: Polished Brass, Antique Brass, Black, Oil Rubbed Mahogany, Satin Nickel, and Chrome. Many lamps have a combination of the above finishes adding to their style and attractiveness.

For a great selection of piano lamps for all pianos, House of Troy Piano Lights is the company of choice.

Piano Placement in the Home

Where you place your piano is a key factor in preserving and protecting your instrument. Use the following guidelines to help you figure out the best spot for your piano.

A piano should never be placed near a heat/air cond. source (radiator, vent, etc.). This is the worst place for your piano. Try to avoid this at all costs. If there is really no other place to put your piano, then you have to take the necessary steps to stop the heat from coming out of that radiator or vent. (turn off radiator/close and cover the vent).
You should also try to try to avoid placing your piano on an outside wall or near windows. Outside Walls transfer the outside climate to the indoors and the effect is greatest on the inside of that wall. Windows allow sunlight to shine on your piano which will fade the finish, (although this usually takes a number of years-but you don't want this to ever happen).
The best place for your piano is on an inside wall away from any heat/air cond. source and out of direct sunlight.
Of course in some homes, the piano owner doesn't have many good options and consequently the piano ends up either near a vent, on an outside wall or in front of a window with the sun shining on it.
For those who find themselves in this position, its important to know that the heat/air cond. source is the worst. If you have a choice between placing it in front of the heating vent or on an outside wall, choose the outside wall. You can always line the back of the piano with insulation if you are having problems. If you have no choice but to place your piano in front of a window, you could purchase a piano cover to protect the finish.
Stay tuned to my blog for more info on this and many other piano related topics.
Thank you,
Rick Langmaack - Pianoscomplete.com

How to choose a piano bench - the next phase

After deciding on either a fixed height piano bench (non-adjustable) or an adjustabe bench, you then have to decide if you would like a wood top bench or a bench with an upholstered top. But this is only an issue if you have chosen a fixed height bench, since all of the adjustable benches I have ever seen have an upolstered top.
The upholstered benches are obviously more comfortable for the player, but if you choose a wood top bench, you can always purchase a piano bench cushion for added comfort.
Some folks like the look of the wood top bench, and some players actually prefer the way a wood top bench feels. It really is a personal choice, but at least now you know the options when it comes to comfort. Stay tuned to my blog for the next entry about choosing a piano bench.
If you would like to see a nice selection of piano benches including all of the above styles, please visit: Pianoscomplete.com
Thanks, Rick

How to choose a piano bench

The first thing to decide when looking to purchase a piano bench is whether you would like a fixed height piano bench or an adjustable one. To some this is simply a personal choice, but to those who are not sure, here is what you need to know.
A fixed height bench does not have the ability to be adjusted up and down. They do come in different sizes, usually from 19" to 22" in height, so when you choose, make sure you choose carefully.

An adjustable height bench allows you the flexibility to change the height of the bench. This is very convenient if you have more than one piano player using the bench, or if you have children who are studying piano, since the height can be adjusted as they grow through the years.
Stay tuned to my blog for more on choosing a piano bench.

If you would like to see a nice selection of both adjustable and fixed height benches, please visit:
Pianoscomplete.com

Piano Caster Cups

Piano caster cups are a great way to protect your wood floor, carpet, or tile from developing dents and holes due to the uneven distribution of weight of your piano and the casters (wheels) which rest directly on the floor causing damage to the floor. They will also help to steady a piano that rocks due to uneven flooring.
Caster cups come in various colors, sizes, and finishes (satin or high gloss), to match virtually any piano, and can be purchased individually or in sets. They are available in hardwood, plastic and lucite and are durable and strong.
For a nice selection of piano caster cups, please visit: Pianoscomplete.com