The Secrets of Working as a West End Pianist

Unveiling the Role of a Rehearsal Pianist

What Does a Rehearsal Pianist Do?

A rehearsal pianist is an essential yet often overlooked part of the musical theater world. These professionals play a crucial role in the weeks leading up to a show's opening night, providing live music for rehearsals before the full orchestra arrives. This role is particularly vital in large-scale musicals such as Les Misérables, Phantom of the Opera, and Miss Saigon.

Typical Work Schedule

The contract for a rehearsal pianist usually spans four to six weeks, with work hours from 10 AM to 5 PM, five or six days a week. However, during the technical week—the final week before the show opens—hours can extend dramatically, sometimes reaching 12 to 13 hours a day.

Skills and Qualities Needed

To excel as a rehearsal pianist, you need to be patient and enjoy the process of performance creation. Consistency in playing musical numbers to a high standard is crucial, as is the ability to work well with actors. You may also be tasked with training singers or playing for dance calls, depending on the production's needs.

Breaking Into the Industry

Initial Steps

When Jeremy Fisher moved to London in the late '80s, he wrote 750 targeted letters seeking employment. While many of the production companies he contacted no longer exist, the methods he used remain relevant.

1. Identify Potential Employers: Look for companies or organizations that produce events, musicals, plays with music, or short films requiring a musician.
2. Utilize Resources: In the UK, the British Music Yearbook (published by Rhinegold) and Contacts (published by The Spotlight) are invaluable resources for finding repertory theatre companies.

Networking and Persistence

Fisher also reached out to film and production companies, offering his services and asking them to keep his details on file. Dance studios like Pineapple Studios in London, which frequently host production rehearsals, can also be valuable contacts.

The Role of Orchestral Fixers

An often-overlooked avenue is contacting the West End Orchestral Fixer. These professionals liaise with musical producers to book musicians for the show's run and may recommend pianists for the rehearsal period. Fisher received much of his work through a West End fixer, leading to a busy 20-year career.

Interesting Stats and Facts

• Employment Opportunities: According to the Musicians' Union, there are approximately 30,000 professional musicians in the UK, with a significant number working in theatre and live performance (Musicians' Union, 2021).
• Economic Impact: The West End contributes over £1 billion annually to the UK economy, with musical theatre being a significant part of this revenue (Society of London Theatre, 2020).
• Job Satisfaction: A survey by the Incorporated Society of Musicians found that 80% of musicians find their work fulfilling, despite the challenges of irregular hours and job security (ISM, 2019).

Conclusion

Breaking into the world of West End rehearsal pianists requires persistence, networking, and a love for the craft. By reaching out to potential employers, utilizing industry resources, and connecting with orchestral fixers, you can carve out a rewarding career in this unique field. Jeremy Fisher's journey from writing 750 letters to a thriving 20-year career serves as an inspiring example for aspiring rehearsal pianists.

For more information on the role of musicians in theatre, visit the Musicians' Union and the Society of London Theatre.

Good luck on your musical journey!

Sources:

• Musicians' Union. (2021). The Role of Musicians in Theatre. Retrieved from Musicians' Union
• Society of London Theatre. (2020). Economic Impact of the West End. Retrieved from Society of London Theatre
• Incorporated Society of Musicians. (2019). Musician Job Satisfaction Survey. Retrieved from ISM