Question: What is the best position for the music stand when playing classical guitar?
Answer summary: The best music stand position depends on whether you are performing or practicing and involves many variables such as ergonomics and visual sight lines. In general, a position slightly toward your left and high enough that you do not have to bend your neck or arch your back in order to see the music is ideal. Below I give you a strong recommendation and then explore the variables in more depth.
Here is the YouTube video link in case you need it.
Ideal Music Stand Position for Home Practice
When practicing at home you can prioritize ergonomics and convenience. You can even adjust the stand to help correct, or at least encourage, posture and position issues.
Horizontal position: Adjust the music stand so you can see both the music and your left hand in your peripheral vision. This will help you avoid looking back and forth from the music to your hand. Don’t move it so far that your neck is bent and turned to the left, have it center left so your eyes can see a bit of both the music and your left hand.
Vertical position: You should adjust the music stand to be high enough that you do not have to bend your neck or arch your back in order to see the music. In fact, for student with bad posture I often raise it so they need to straighten out in order to see the music.
Visual acuity: Depending on your eyes and vision you may need the stand closer or further to see the music clearly. When sight reading I need it a bit closer but when playing something I know well the music can be further away as I’m using it almost as a guide.
Music Stand Position When Performing
When performing you want a clear line of sight between the audience and your guitar and body. This is important to the audience, they came to see and hear you. You also don’t want the music stand to block the sound that is directed at your listeners. Therefore, the music stand is often quite low. It should be low enough that the audience can see your guitar and hands clearly.
When playing music we know well this is usually fine as we have it half memorized anyway and are using the score more as a guide. When sight reading or playing ensemble music compromises must be made depending on your visual acuity.
