Musicians who play any instrument know that playing comes with certain challenges. The conditions where they perform are not always ideal. For instance, sometimes the stage can be fairly dark which can affect the readability of the notes that the performer is supposed to follow.
In this particular case scenario, having a device that can provide the right lighting is of immense help. Incorporating a reliable music stand light during your performance will ensure the visibility of your music notes and enhance your performance.
Types of Music Stand Lights
First things first, before landing your hands on this lighting device, it’s essential that you understand the specifics of the different types.
Clip-On
This type of stand light is the most commonly used among musicians. It’s lightweight, convenient and easy to use. It’s a simple device that runs on batteries, and its adjustable clip provides a secure grip on the sheet music, without damaging it. There are clip-ons available with standard goosenecks that cannot be adjusted, or adjustable options. Whether you choose one or the other depends on your preferences and performance needs.
Typically equipped with LED bulbs, a clip-on provides optimal visibility by beaming light directly onto the music sheets. The clip-on design allows easy portability, without adding unnecessary weight to your music equipment when on the go.
Stand-Alone
If your music performance requires something more powerful, then opting for a stand-alone lighting device might seem like the right option for you. It’s an indispensable tool that provides a stable and powerful illumination precisely onto the sheet music. These tools use LED technology, allowing musicians the right brightness levels, without putting strain on their eyes.
These stand-alone tools ensure compatibility with various types of music stands and are good options for performers who need flexibility and ease of use. They feature a sleek and portable design and oftentimes come with adjustable necks, allowing you to direct the light at your preferred angle.
Rechargeable
One thing it’s for sure – every time you are due to perform somewhere, unpredictable events can happen. Think of this scenario. The light tool may run out of power and you don’t have any spare batteries, but the show must go on. It’s surely enough a stressful situation and caught up amid performance, there’s not much you can do but continue without the help of an extra light source.
In this case, opting for rechargeable stands that are powered by a micro-USB port seems like the smartest solution. These devices are also powered by LED technology and beam optimum light to your music notes. They can be of immense help when performing for longer hours or going on a tour, without worrying you if have spare batteries.
Factors to Consider When Selecting a Music Stand Light
Lumens
Lumens is a measurement for the level of brightness of the light emitted. Therefore, lumens are one of the several important factors to consider when choosing this tool. For low-light scenes, it would be preferable to have a stand that provides optimal visibility. A higher lumen strength helps you read the music notes without causing any strain on your eyes.
However, choosing a stand with higher lumens comes with another challenge – glare. The higher the lumen, the higher the chances that the stand may create glare on the music sheet. Therefore, good advice would be to look for a stand that has adjustable lightness. It helps to customize the brightness to your needs and provides versatility for different performance environments.
Battery Life
Another important aspect of choosing a light stand is the battery life. It’s a crucial consideration because the battery life impacts the reliability of the stand. So, opting for a stand with batteries that have an optimum duration makes sense.
However, there are also other cost-effective alternatives to stands that run on batteries. Rechargeable light tools are an eco-friendly and reliable option. They are powered by LED technology to ensure that as a musician, you can rest assured the light will not run off amid performance. Typically, these devices come with a micro USB option and make a convenient option when performing. It allows you to focus on the music without any disruptions.
Light’s Size and Weight
The weight and size of this device play a role in its portability and convenience of use. Of course, whether you will go for a heavier and larger stand or a simple clip-on will mostly depend on your music performance needs.
For instance, if you need effortless transportation between gigs, then opting for a clip-on will make a better option. On the other hand, if you’re in an environment like an outdoor stage, then a larger and heavier stand means better stability and reliability. Similarly, if you are using music books or oversized music sheets, then you need a larger light that will illuminate the entire area.
Check If They Have Adjustable Neck
Depending on the conditions where you perform, you might want to consider looking for a stand that comes with an adjustable neck. The gooseneck is easy to adjust and it helps you direct the light precisely where you need higher visibility. Another benefit of the adjustable neck is that you can adjust it so it reduces glare and optimizes visibility.
How to Use Stand Lights The Right Way
The advice on how to use the stand the proper way is a small summary of all that has been explained earlier. You need to consider the brightness settings and avoid any glare, the adjustable angle, battery management, portability and adapting the stand to different light conditions. But most importantly, you need to ensure the proper placement of the tool.
Position the light at the top of the music stand in such a way that is directed to the sheet music. Ensure that the entire surface is lit, avoiding shadows, dark spots or glare.