Need for Concert Pianists

[alzado]

At issue here is  . . . .  how many concert pianists can be supported by the current need?

When our two kids were in middle school they both earned seats in the local "youth symphony."  One of our kids played violin, and the other oboe.  Their success happened partly because orchestras need a lot of violins, and -- at least in 1990 -- there were far fewer oboeists than flautists, or players of other instruments.   Our kids also played piano, but this did not seem to be a "salable skill" with respect to youth music ensembles in the area.

Now, if some teaching programs are designed to prepare young pianists to be performers, is there any demand for their skills?   Or are these young persons just being set up for disappointment?

I personally play the piano and enjoy doing so.  However, I would have to question how many concert pianists are needed to fill the available opportunities as touring guest performers.  We invite two or three professional pianists every year to play in our city orchestra's concert series, but it appears that if a pianist is not a "big name," opportunities are slim to none.

Any comments?

[BoliverAllmon]

it all depends on how much money you want to make and what your skills are? I know of a pianist who lives solely off of recitals and recordings. He finds lots of recitals to give. He is actually sought after because he plays music that is not heard of. He plays lots of African music and gives lectures on the composers. Because of this he isn't a well known making millions pianist, but he gets to play what he likes and does it for a living.

If you can learn fast and play decently you can make tons of recordings for lesser known cd companies. Also remember that every opera, ballet, and symphony need pianists. Opera productions usually have three pianists. It all depends on what you want to do. If you want to be like Horowitz and be that sought after, then yeah it is tough, but if you want to play and play often the opportunities are there.

boliver

[pianonut]

thanks boliver!

[BoliverAllmon]

no problem