The word “accompanist” can be a loaded one in the world of classical music.
A pianist who usually appears on stage along with another musician is typically called an accompanist–a term that, for some pianists, suggests they are simply there in a supporting role to the big star. It suggests that the pianist’s contribution is quite unimportant.
Horror stories abound, like the one about the very grand lady going back stage after a violin and piano recital, and telling the the pianist she hoped to hear him play some time!
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So to step out of the shadows, some pianists prefer to be called “collaborators” or “collaborating pianists.”
Fair enough. Talking to a young pianist at the Verbier Festival a few days ago, I was interested that he is happy to be known as an accompanist, reminding me that “accompanying” is defined as “to go along or in company with; join in action,” which suggests a partnership.
And I saw an exciting and new (five years) partnership in recital on Sunday morning: violinist Kyung Wha Chung and pianist Kevin Kenner. Chung told me after the concert that they can surprise each other (in a good way) even in performance. Kenner, enjoying the thoroughbred Steinway grand, brought something new to the start of the Franck sonata, a work that’s a trademark for Chung.
A partnership of equally creative musicians is a wondrous thing to behold, as it was in this recital.