Although we have a great working relationship, we have talked to many colleagues, both pianists and conductors, who are not so lucky. The horror stories are simply astounding. In order to gain understanding about issues affiliated with the conductor/pianist relationship, we thought it would be beneficial to poll our colleagues. We asked a pointed list of questions directed to both conductors and pianists. We had about 80 responses (40 pianists and 40 conductors). The statistics we found regarding equality of roles was startling. We asked both pianists and conductors if the role of the pianist was equal in the rehearsal process to that of the conductor. 72% of pianists said they felt the roles were not equal and 28% felt as if there was a true collaboration between conductor and pianist. On the flip side, 63% of conductors feel that the roles are equal and 37% feel that the conductor is more important. These results are telling. From these numbers, it looks as though the belief system is different from practice. Conductors feel as though they are encouraging equality and collaboration, but it is not translating to the pianists. Discussion needs to take place before walking into the rehearsal room about each person’s responsibility and the importance of their role to the rehearsal process. We have also learned the importance of having the pianist as your advocate. Remembering that they are colleagues will help guide decisions in how you approach and communicate with them in rehearsal.
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Joy Grotenhuis says