Arrangement for two pianos

[pet]

I have a quick question. I am in the process of learning Sonata K. 448 for two pianos by Mozart.  Usually in most concerts when there are two pianos, they are usually facing opposite each other.  Are there any other arrangements as to how the pianos should be?  For this particular piece, because the two pianists fill in each other's melody, the pianos being opposite each suggests that the two piano parts are in competition, rather than being one big piano part.

Any suggestions?

[pianistimo]

hmmm. i never really thought of it that way.  you can see each others facial mov'ts better facing each other - i would think.  but, maybe side by side you could sort of 'feel it' too, and look like you are not duelling.  the sad thing about that is that one or the other pianist is out of sight most of the time.

[mikey6]

maybe side by side you could sort of 'feel it' too, and look like you are not duelling.  the sad thing about that is that one or the other pianist is out of sight most of the time.

The other problem is that the sound wouldn't be balanced.
I've played it and seen it played facing into eachother and there's no problem.  Can't really think of any other different arrangements apart from those 2.

[quantum]

In my personal experience facing each other has more benifits for the audience - sightlines and such.  While side by side has more benifits for the pianists - easier to communicate. 

Both positions are a problem when you have to record, as the lids interfear with the sound of the opposite piano. 

[practicingnow]

If the two pianos are side by side instead of facing each other, it has the appearance of one pianist accompanying the other (the far pianist accompanying the near pianist, of course), which is no good. 

[pet]

Thank you for all of the replies.  I guess having the pianos opposite each other is the way to go.  It's good for the audience, and it seems that the sound would be more balanced, and both pianists can be seen.

Thanks again!