"Are we expected to be obedient, to obey without question the whims and caprices of whomsoever we are accompanying? — I still pursue with unabated resentment a critic who, in the dim and distant past, assigned that doubtful quality to me."
"They enhance the art of their partners."
- Gerald Moore
What is Collaborative Piano?
Collaborative Piano = Piano Accompanist
However the word accompanist has come to mean 'that other part', 'the person who plays for the soloist'.
With the word 'accompaniment' drawing negative connections to the artform, collaboration better captures the true essence of our work -- a dynamic interactive partnership where both musicians contribute equally to the artistic process.
Piano is considered to be the loneliest instrument. Majority of piano students are often isolated from ensemble programs. They are instead offered the percussion part or the piano part in band programs that exist purely for inclusivity. While many train to become solo pianists, a significant number end up abandoning the path entirely and pursue a different career or "resort" to accompanying. This mindset undervalues the specialised field of collaborative piano, a discipline that requires a unique skill set vastly different from solo performance. Specific training is necessary to develop these skills. Despite the greatest collaborative pianist Gerald Moore fighting for recognition since the 1960s, pianists are still not getting the respect they deserve. Collaborative piano is a legitimate field of study and should be recognised and respected as such.
What do we do?
In addition to learning and performing the piano part, we also learn our associate artist/s' part to:
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understand the entire piece in its entirety ensuring tight coordination and an integrated interpretation
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for songs: understand the lyrics and translate if it's in another language
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make informed decisions and be able to communicate effectively with partner/s
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honour both the composer and performer's intent and strive to deliver the music as authentically and expressively as possible
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provide musical and emotional support when needed and expect the same in return
During a rehearsal, all artists involved contribute creative ideas and together these ideas are shaped into one cohesive performance. Phrases such as "just follow me" have no place in such a collaborative setting. All musicians work as equals, actively engaging with one another to weave the complexities of the music together.
During a performance, a skilled collaborative pianist has the ability to adjust in real-time to the nuances of a live performance, responding to changes in tempo, dynamics and last second interpretation changes/mistakes.
Why is it important?
As mentioned above, the role and importance of a collaborative pianist needs greater recognition. It is a valid career path that more pianists should pursue and not see it as a fallback for failed solo concert pianists, as the skills required for collaboration are vastly different from those of a soloist.
Key skills for a collaborative pianist include, but are not limited to:
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Ability to learn pieces quickly or sight-read with precision
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Quick reflexes to respond to changes from other musicians
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Strong listening and communication skills, both musical and interpersonal
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Deep knowledge of various instruments and fluency in diverse musical genres
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Advanced piano technique that allows for multi-tasking and adaptability
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Follow/assist a conductor in large ensemble and choral settings
These essential skills are often overlooked in early training, which tends to focus heavily on solo performance. As a result, many pianists are not prepared for the collaborative demands of the role, despite its importance and artistic value.
Hamilton - Sydney Return
FAQ
How should we approach a collaborative pianist (Me!)?
Make sure to reach out as early as possible! Please don't leave it until the last minute to make sure I have enough time to prepare for a successful rehearsal/performance.
A lot of people send a message or email through without a lot of the important information so check that you have these details in the message you're about to send!
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Introduce yourself or whoever I will be playing with -- including name!
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Any important dates and time
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Be clear about the context of the collaboration eg. AMEB exam prep (mention the grade), HSC/trials, audition prep, recording session
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Repertoire (piece/song names)
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Send through a copy of the music asap to su98cho@gmail.com
Collaborative pianists are often juggling multiple projects at the same time with repertoire from many different genres of music. Respectful and timely clear communication is key to ensuring a smooth process from beginning to end.
What are your rates?
Rates differ greatly depending on repertoire and any additional requirements such as, if travel is necessary and time frame I am given to prepare.
The Accompanists' Guild of NSW sets a guide of $90/hr upwards for rehearsals which I try to honour as closely as possible. Please contact me with the details above and I will get back to you with a rate asap!
While the fee may seem high, we spend our own time outside of rehearsal, practising to learn or revisit all the repertoire thrown our way. You are also paying for my experience which includes many years of practising, performing, studying and honing the craft.
Also! An easy piece for the instrumentalist or singer may not necessarily be easy for the pianist.
What to expect in a rehearsal?
I repeat one more time, pianists do not play FOR you but play WITH you.
It is a partnership and both parties must speak up to request things they need to perform at their very best. The very first thing we will do is make sure we can play the piece beginning to end and figure out how we fit in with each other. We will proceed to do work on the piece to ensure our interpretations are on the same page and we have the same understanding of the composer's intentions. If I need something more from my partner, I will communicate it and expect my partner to do the same. Be prepared to discuss and explore!
So then... How should I prepare for a rehearsal?
Make sure you can play the piece non-stop beginning to end.
Know your piece/song!!
This includes:
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Any cuts?
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Basic historical context? Was this person heartbroken while writing this piece? Was this person ill when writing? Was there a war? OR What's the story of the musical/opera?
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If there are lyrics, you MUST know what you are singing about
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Paper copies of the music are always welcome. Make sure they are clearly marked if there are cuts and organised neatly in a folder or tabbed if in a book.
I still see the term accompanist everywhere?
The adoption of the title 'collaborative pianist' has been slow and gradual, with ongoing debates about the true value of a collaborative pianist. However, the industry is certainly evolving and through education, we aim to make this shift lasting. We appreciate your support in encouraging this change!
I want to study collaborative piano!
Hurray! I'm so glad you're interested in joining the cool kids club!
There are so many routes you can take and genres of music to explore.
Please reach out for lesson enquiries and/or feel free to reach out and have a chat with me about options to get you on your way in becoming the greatest musician.
Please feel free to reach out should you have any other questions!
A cool little thing that might help you with the art of collaboration...
Korean Traditional Drumming places importance on collaboration and breath work despite being percussion instrument focused. Special attention is given to the silence -- the space between notes.
Breathing and learning to collaborate are taught before you touch the instrument. The concept of musicality and expression is explored very early on in the learning process. You'll be challenged to break free from typical Western traditions which are governed by the metronome and barlines.
The piano can also be considered a percussion instrument but there tends to be a mechanical focus on playing the notes perfectly rather than lyrical musical side of the instrument. A lot of advanced players fail to recognise the beauty of the space in between and what it means to create music. Perhaps Korean Traditional Drumming lessons are the key to unlocking a more profound approach to piano playing?