The role of choral accompanist has a direct impact on the success of a choir. With a great director, a choir can accomplish much; with a great director + a great accompanist, the sky is the limit! Without a great director, the accompanist can still be a powerful catalyst for growth, covering over “a multitude of sins” and gently filling in gaps to bring forth beautiful music. Conversely, if an accompanist lacks skills and/or professionalism, it will affect the tenor (pardon the pun) and musicality of the group.
If you currently serve a choir as their accompanist, your work at the piano in rehearsal is as important to a choir's success as the foundation of your house is to the home in which you live!
Here are a few thoughts on what you can do to enhance the focus, accuracy, musicality, and overall professionalism of your choir:
Qualities of a Great Choral Accompanist
- A great choral accompanist is proficient at the piano. Playing well technically and having a good understanding of music theory and form will enable you to learn music quickly.
- A great choral accompanist anticipates what the director is going to do next. A “good” accompanist “follows” the director; a “great” accompanist is so focused on what the conductor is doing that he or she can anticipate things like: what problem spot the director will go back to rehearse the choir at, where in the music the director wants more rubato or expression, and when more support of the vocal lines is needed.
- A great choral accompanist isn't easily offended, but recognizes the need of all musicians (including him/herself) for continued growth and problem-solving.
- A great choral accompanist is efficient in home practice time. When given a stack of music at the beginning of a season, prioritizing what needs work first is essential. (For help with this, check out my free resource, Timesavers for Choral Accompanists, below!)
- A great choral accompanist is receptive to the needs of the choir. You are the director's second pair of ears and can often hear things that the director misses. Take the initiative to bring out certain vocal lines that choir members need help with when learning parts, and be available to choir members who might want a little help during the break.
- A great choral accompanist is always professional. Your role is more akin to that of the director than the choir members. As a leader in the group, your attitude toward the director, the music, and the choir members will affect others. Set an example by not engaging in gossip, working to build up rather than tear down, being prompt to rehearsal (early is better!), and being focused during practice.
If you are currently serving a choir, consider it a great privilege to be the “unseen conductor.” The choir relies on you for its support. Continue to hone your skills, striving always to be better than you were the week before, and let it bring you great satisfaction that you are contributing to the success of your choir!
Resources for Choral Accompanists
For more support and encouragement in your role as choral accompanist, check out these resources:
Choral Accompanists Facebook Group (click the image)
Timesavers for Choral Accompanists (click the image)
How To Read Open Score: On-Demand Workshop for Choral Accompanists (click the image)
Find more resources in my growing library for choral accompanists at coribelle.com/choral-piano
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