ABSTRACT
The coach accompanist is a vital member of any opera staging rehearsal and is often the primary link between the musical staff and the production team. Staging usually begins once the coach has already worked with the singers and has briefed them on the tempi, rubato, and nuances of the conductor’s interpretation, in addition to stylistic considerations and other musical preparation. Generally, the coach accompanist plays the piano (or harpsichord) for stagings, with the conductor or chorus master/mistress present to establish the contact between the “orchestra” (piano) and the stage. Sometimes a coach will be required to play the piano without a conductor present, and occasionally several members of coaching staff will be involved, so that, for example, one coach might conduct while another plays the piano.
