Why do I need a StandExtender?
The StandExtender lets individual musicians and small ensembles focus more on performing and less on turning pages. It also allows you to share a music stand more effectively. The StandExtender is a must-have item for churches and schools with music programs. Almost all musicians, music directors and vocal ensembles will find it useful in some way -- one of those handy gadgets that you will quickly learn to depend on.
Does the StandExtender work with all music stands?
Unlike traditional extensions that only work with a specific brand, the StandExtender will work with any stand that has a straight top edge -- i.e., most of the standard, non-portable stands that you see on stages, orchestra pits, etc.. It does not work with portable, wire frame stands, or stands with a curved top, because they do not have a straight top edge. See our
compatibility page for details.
Is it stable?
Yes. The patent-pending design ensures that the StandExtender sticks to the stand and provides a firm page support surface. If you bump it, the StandExtender and stand tend to move as a unit. The only situation where we do not recommend using the StandExtender is outdoors on windy days, where the increased surface area does become an issue. Of course, windy days are a problem with sheet music in general.
Aren’t music stand extensions difficult to attach?
Not anymore. In practice, traditional extensions usually attach to the stand semi-permanently, because it takes time to attach them. So, realistically, you end up buying a device for every stand that you use -- including ones that you don't own. The StandExtender changes that. You can carry it around with you, and set it up even in the tightest time crunch. Check out
the video. Traditional extensions belong to the stand -- the StandExtender belongs to
you.
How does it work?
The StandExtender attaches naturally to the top edge of the music stand. Gravity takes it from there. It can accommodate 6 or 7 sheets of paper side by side, with plenty of room to store extra pages behind them. The ledge of the music stand remains available, so you can continue to use that for larger bound volumes. The StandExtender's hinging system lets you fold it quickly for easy transport.
It looks very wide. Doesn’t it get in the way?
If you have four feet of space, you're fine. Since it takes only a few seconds to detach and fold, we recommend stowing the StandExtender first after a performance, so it is out of the way when moving other equipment. Just remove your music, lift the StandExtender off the stand, fold it up, and set it aside. That’s it – no screws, no fasteners, no hassle.
It looks hard to unfold.
It's really very easy. Just watch
the video. If you open and close it as shown, the StandExtender unfolds itself..
What materials do you use?
The base model is 100% acrylic, which is great for most applications. You can upgrade to polycarbonate if you want, which is nearly unbreakable. Our goal was to make a sturdy, attractive, professional-grade product that you will use for a lifetime and pass on to your kids.
Where do you make them?
The StandExtender is currently hand-assembled in the USA by the people who designed it. We will move to more automated methods as demand warrants. If you like to own "originals", grab one now. These are one of a kind devices, and supplies of the initial production run are extremely limited. Whatever the production methods, we are committed to building them in the USA.
What does it cost?
The acrylic model is $39.95 The polycarbonate model is $59.95. Current prices reflect the cost of high-quality materials, not to mention the fact that we don't build them in sweatshops in foreign countries.
What if I don't like it?
Hard to imagine, but if that's the case, just send it back to us within 30 days. We won't ask any questions, but we certainly would appreciate any constructive feedback that you might have.
What if it breaks?
The StandExtender is essentially unbreakable unless you abuse it severely. The polycarbonate version will stand up to just about any abuse short of a jackhammer. That said, if any of the assembled joints fail in the first year, just let us know. We'll fix it or replace it.
Are there any other similar products on the market?
We are aware of a few products in the same general category, but none do exactly what the StandExtender does. Please see our
product comparison page for details.
Why should I buy a StandExtender if I can just buy another music stand for the same price?
They serve entirely different purposes. The StandExtender is portable. You would have to carry around three standard music stands to get the same effect. The StandExtender enhances the value of the music stands that you already own or use.
Can't I just nail a ledge to a piece of plywood?
Sure. Good luck carrying that around with you :-).