A GUIDE FOR THE PIANIST IN CLASSICAL BALLET ACCOMPANIMENT

Abstract

Accompanying a classical ballet technique class contains different elements and difficulties for a
pianist when compared to accompanying instruments and voice. The score is specific when
accompanying instrument or voice whereas the pianist is mostly free to choose the music suitable
for the movments in a ballet class. Due to this exact problem the ballet instructor and the
accompanist have problems from time to time. In this case the pianist’s experience plays a big role
for the class course. The professional ballet pianist has mastered the essential elements for the class,
therefore the problems are solved quickly. On the other hand these problems will be challenging for
the unexperienced accompanist. In this study preliminary preparation and essentials to pay attention
for during the class for beginner and amateur ballet pianists are addressed in general terms. The
biggest motivation for doing this research is the lack of Turkish sources on this specific subject. I
hope this will not be a guide only for the pianist but will help the ballet instructor to see the
problems from the accompanist’s point of view as well