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Designing the Perfect Band Classroom: With or Without Risers?

By Molly Schultz, RA

September 5, 2024
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Creating an effective learning environment for band or choral students is crucial for music educators and school administrators. Classroom design not only impacts the daily operations but also influences how students interact with the music and each other.

Two prevalent setups for music classrooms are with risers and without. Historically, risers have been the go-to choice, but many schools are now considering flat, floor-only arrangements.
Wayne High School Band Room Before
Wayne High School Band Room Before

Why Risers Have Been Popular

Easy Setup and Routine

Risers provide a predictable structure for both teachers and students.

“Set up is easy; it’s all done for you. It gives the kids a set way to do things, and students like routine,” says Kenneth Woods, band director at Wayne High School.

Enhanced Sound Clarity

The different heights of risers can improve sound distribution, making it easier to hear individual parts and balance the ensemble.

“It helps with cleaning parts in the music, and it helps the students hear the other members of the ensemble,” said Woods. “With the different instruments at different heights, you can hear things better or at least differently.”

Improved Sightlines

Risers ensure that students at the back have a clear view of the conductor, and vice versa, facilitating better communication and instruction.

Permanent vs. Portable Risers

Permanent Risers

Permanent risers can often be found in band and choral classrooms at older schools. However, they offer very little flexibility in terms of room arrangement.

That was the case at Wayne High School, which was built in 1969, before school administrators renovated the music classrooms.

Portable Risers

Portable risers provide the flexibility to switch between a raised and flat setup. They require dedicated storage and are less durable than permanent risers. Additionally, they take time to set up and dismantle, adding to the logistical workload.
Wayne High School Band Room Before
Wayne High School Band Room Before

The Case for a Floor-Only Setup

Practicality and Flexibility

A flat floor setup offers much more adaptability, especially when it comes to moving equipment and changing the room layout to suit different activities. Without risers, it’s easy to change the room setup to meet the varying needs from class to class. With them, the setup is locked.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the need for social distancing made risers less practical, reducing the number of students they could accommodate in a classroom.

Replicating Performance Environments

A flat setup allows students to practice in an environment that closely mimics their actual performance spaces.

“Kids, and teachers, get used to hearing one thing, then when we go in front of a crowd, all of a sudden it’s way different and they freak out,” said Woods.

Quick Solution for Sightline Issues

Using a conductor’s podium can easily solve visibility challenges, ensuring that all students have a clear view of the conductor.

Both setups have their merits, and the best choice depends on each school’s specific needs and circumstances. Regardless of the choice, the goal is to create an environment where students can thrive musically and educationally.
Wayne High School Band Room After
Wayne High School Band Room After

Thinking of redesigning your band or choral classroom? Contact us to find the perfect setup for your students.

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