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The Need for Good Accompanists

KATHLEEN MARTIN - LECTURER
        MUSIC TEACHERS ASSOCIATION OF CALIFORNIA
2004
Lecture audience: piano teachers

Outline:
A good accompanist is a partner in the singing process. He/she supports and enhances the singer’s performance so that the singer has the freedom to be creative, expressive, and entertaining.

Auditions & Competitions: (is basically an accompanist)
a.  Needs to know extensive repertoire.
b.  In many cases the accompanist does not meet the singer or see the music before the singer walks on stage.
c.  Needs great sight-reading skills. No matter how experienced there will always be some piece of music that is unfamiliar.
d.  A basic knowledge of at least the pronunciation of the major languages of singing is necessary.
e.  Major auditions for opera houses; the accompanist is usually an opera coach as well.

Coach Opera/Art song: (is a teacher and accompanist)
a.  Is responsible for foreign language pronunciation and translation.
b.  Must know traditions (typical cuts, cadenzas, phrasing, etc.)
c.  Knows repertoire and can suggest other pieces/roles.
d.  In opera houses plays rehearsals, auditions, performances (harpsichord, etc.) and concerts.
e.   It is very helpful to have had some singing experience or private lessons at some point since the coach often sings vocal cues or other parts when teaching roles.
f.   Most opera conductors begin as opera coaches.

 

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