Working as a choral accompanist can be very rewarding. There is nothing like supporting a group of singers from behind the keyboard: helping them to learn their parts, encouraging their progress, and then enjoying the fruits of our labor as we accompany them in concert. Carrying out a director's vision, anticipating what he/she is going to do before he/she does it, and contributing to the overall excellence and beauty of the music can be incredibly fulfilling. However, there are times when we work with directors and our personalities don't mesh well, communication is difficult, or maybe we are the better musician. Rather than cut ties and run, it can be worthwhile to try and make things work, especially if we are invested in supporting the choir members. Here are some ideas for how to remain professional and keep the peace while working in a less-than-ideal situation:
Make it your goal to make the conductor look good.
o Don’t draw attention to the conductor’s mistakes (dropped beats, defining an Italian word wrong, bringing the choir in a whole measure early/late)
o Always follow the conductor!
o Anticipate what the conductor is going to say and be ready (the choir missed an entrance, prepare to go back)
o Be professional. Rehearsals are not the time nor place to air grievances about the director or about the members of the choir.
Address any concerns privately.
o Ask, “Can you clarify when you want me to start? Will you give me a preparatory beat, or an entire measure, before you want me to come in?” “What tempo do you prefer here?”
o If a collaboration during rehearsal isn’t working, assume it is a misunderstanding on your part. Try to clear it up by asking questions of the conductor.
o It is normal to feel overlooked sometimes, or not acknowledged (although a good director will express gratitude for your work) – that is part of the job, and if you have done your job well the choir will know their parts and sing musically whether or not you end up performing with them in the concert and whether or not you are publicly acknowledged. However, if there is a clear issue of disrespect, where the director is continually pointing out mistakes publicly or disparaging you, and you have tried addressing it in private to no avail, it may be time to cut ties and find another choir.
Being a choral accompanist means contributing to the success of the choir, and this requires professionalism and respect in our interactions with directors. Even in less-than-ideal circumstances, our professionalism and artistry can make a lasting impact. By choosing grace over grievance and collaboration over conflict, we not only support the choir’s success but also have the opportunity to grow as musicians and colleagues.
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