Tips You've Learned Along The Way

[ClassicalPiano2002]

Post some tips you've learned the hard way over the years in this forum  

[Mandy]

I once accompanied this male singer who never showed up for rehearsal, never knew his music, never showed up for class, got his voice prof's daughter pregnant, (twice!) and never used to get me to come to his lessons. He told his prof that it was I who never came prepared and I got yelled at by his prof for being unreliable!!  Now, I make all of the people I accompany sign a contract-I only wait for 10 minutes, and 3 unexplained absences from rehearsals with me and they are on their own!!  Instead of spending hours on the music with them, they get an hour a week rehearsal, plus their lesson-I don't go over notes or words if they are consistently unprepared- and I don't give refunds for missed rehearsals.  It might sound harsh, but that way I still get paid and I'm not stuck teaching voice lessons, and now the people I accompany actually value my time.

[ClassicalPiano2002]

good idea  

[rmc7777]

Mandy,

Hey, your time is valuable.  Having an artist sign a contract for your services is more than reasonable.  Horowitz was well respected for his business acumen as well as his playing.  He was known as a tough negotiator when he made recording contracts, so you're in good company.

[Karin]

I'm not sure if it was this group, but I read on the web to take deep breaths before performing.  I also applied the suggestion of having a practice performance and asking your practice audience to be rude.  I've found good stuff online - THANKS to all.

Karin

[ludwig]

well, wouldn't actually call it a tip, cos I haven't achieved it quiet as yet. But patience is a virtue, espeically in piano playing.

[MzrtMusic]

The best thing my teacher ever told me, was to practice slowly!!! His ratio is 4 times slow for every one time fast. I've generally found that it works wonders!

Love,

Sarah