I have a performance coming up. How soon should I find an accompanist?
Contact your accompanist as soon as possible to confirm availability on your performance date. Schedules fill up. Waiting until a week before the event is generally too late.
How soon do accompanists need music for my performance?
While accompanists are often familiar with a vast selection of repertoire, there are pieces that need extra time to prepare. Some can be very challenging. As soon as you know selection(s) for your performance, give the music to the accompanist. When the pianist and performer alike have the opportunity to prepare, the chances for a successful musical performance are improved.
Should I prepare paper or electronic copies of my accompaniment?
I personally use an iPad for performances. Some pianists prefer paper copies. Check with your accompanist for their preference.
In what condition should the accompaniment scores be that I give to the pianist?
Be professional and courteous in your preparation. Give the pianist clear, easy-to-read copies. Each page needs to be complete with top, bottom, and side margins -- just like the original. When your accompanist has all the clef signs, key signatures, time signatures and notes, you will have a better performing experience.
I don't know how to use the scanner/copier very well. What do I do?
Learning to use the machines beyond their basic function will be beneficial to you, as they are used often in many professions. Take the time to become familiar with them. If you have trouble, enlist the help of a friend who does know to teach or assist you with the job.
Can I use the scanner app on my phone for scanning music?
While scanner apps are convenient for some things, they don't work for everything. Scans from phones and other devices often result in low-resolution scans which produce a blurry document. Also, most books will not lay flat on their own, causing distortions in the music. Provide the pianist with clear, easy-to-read scans.
Do I need to rehearse with the accompanist before a performance?
Planning for a performance should always include working with your accompanist, either in lessons or private rehearsals. Challenging pieces may require more than one rehearsal. Developing ensemble between two or more performers is an important part of the preparation.
I don't know my music well, yet. Can I still meet with my accompanist?
If you are meeting to rehearse specifically for a performance, music should already be learned well. If you are in the process of learning a piece, accompanists can still provide some assistance — e.g. working out difficult passages, recording accompaniment tracks (for some pieces).
Do I need to pay my accompanist?
Accompanists provide a service and thus are to be compensated. Please click here to read about accompanist fees at SNU.
If you have other questions, please email me at tmarek@snu.edu.