My favorite music stand.

Artist and craftsman, Michael Norris has been designing and creating beautiful and functional, custom-made music stands for almost 30 years. A musician in his own right, who plays harmonium and guitar, he was determined to design the perfect music stand that would meet the specific needs of fellow musicians (amateur and professional), conductors, music students and schools, church choirs, chamber ensembles, and others.   / misterstandman   http://www.misterstandman.com/ Michael handcrafts his music stands from a small shop behind his log home in the forest high about Lake Coeur d’Alene in Idaho. Though he lives mostly off the grid in a rural area (he hasn’t had a TV in 35 years!), Michael still ships his products to customers worldwide, and of course, across the US. He offers more than 75 designs, available in many different kinds of wood, and a variety of stains. Though his business keeps him busy, Michael takes time to marvel at the incredible natural beauty that surrounds him. He is an avid hiker and photographer. In addition, he’s been practicing yoga for 15 years and is an accomplished dancer. Meet Michael… What drew you to your chosen craft? I liked to work with my hands making stuff and was married to a musician at the time who wanted a music stand so I made her one from scratch. What do you enjoy most about your craft? I like the handwritten letters that customers write me to say how well-handcrafted the stands are. Why is it important for people to make things with their own hands? Because it helps in our economy that stuff is made here and not overseas! In what ways are handmade goods better than those that are mass-produced? The handmade stuff is usually better in quality and appearance and will last far longer. What does the future hold for your type of work? Not too sure. Hopefully, I can get a few more years of making these stands before China copies me! [Text from Handcrafted America / Jill Wagner]