Accom­pani­ment for pian­ists

• Year of study: Two semesters, fall and spring.
• Final assessment: Concert
• Language of instruction: Norwegian or English.

Course description

The course applies to all pianists in the Bachelor's programme in Performance.
The course focuses on developing knowledge, skills, and attitudes related to the art of accompaniment.

Course coordinator: Piano, Accompaniment, Guitar and Accordion Department

Learning objectives

Upon completion of the course students are expected to

• have skills in accompanying and making music with singers and instrumentalists
• demonstrate insight into repertoire from various historical periods and language areas
• be aware of the pianist’s role in different ensemble settings
• have insight into the rehearsal work required by pianist and fellow musician
• show skills in sight-reading and rehearsal techniques
• be able to reduce scores to practical piano parts

Overview

The course includes work with:

• accompaniment of singers and instrumentalists, both individually and in ensembles
• practice in sight-reading and quick preparation
• analysis of vocal music
• study of different accompanists' playing styles
• study of transcribed accompaniment parts with a focus on simplification and adaptation for piano
• study of the role of accompaniment parts in various musical forms
• historical studies of the piano's role as an accompanying instrument

The practical work with singers will constitute the main part of the course, but it may also be viewed in connection with chamber music and collaboration with other instrumentalists.

Structure

The course is organized into individual lessons and group instruction within a framework of 30 minutes per student per week for 22 weeks. Students are expected to put in a significant portion of independent work. Parts of the teaching can be organized differently if appropriate.

Course requirements

1. Students will participate in at least 2 concerts and 2-4 masterclasses with the talent development programme at the Academy.
2. Students must provide an overview of the repertoire studied and performed during the course (approx. 20-30 minutes in length).

Final assessment

All course requirements must be fulfilled and approved before the student is given a final assessment.

Assessment is based on learning objectives. The final assessment is determined on the basis of participation in a concert as an accompanist/participant, normally at NMH.