Some things singers should never do to a pianist

Jenna Douglas, a Canadian pianist and singing coach, is fed up at being taken for granted by singers and opera companies. On her entertaining Schmopera site, she has published a list of things you really shouldn’t do to a pianist.

‘Why do pianists put up with it?’ demands Jenna (pictured). ‘Because we can’t afford not to. Sure, we’re thanked profusely (even publicly!) for our extra work. When we save the day by sight-reading like a monster for a masterclass, we’re momentarily everyone’s hero. But that’s not good enough. Again, in no other industry would you dream of asking a trained professional to do work that wasn’t on their contract, for which you have no intent of paying them.’

Click here to read in full.

We’re sure Slippedisc.com readers could add more common perils of the opera pianist.