ABSTRACT

The early stages of pianists' careers – when they are proving their mettle by means of a sensational debut, a competition success, a successful audition, admission onto a promotional scheme or whatever – are exciting for all concerned. The experience of younger pianists verifies statements made by the aforementioned agent-managers and also suggests that they prefer a more personal management style. Publicity photographs have long been an important part of a pianist's or artist manager's promotional apparatus, and photographic facilities were for a time offered, if only indirectly, by Ibbs and Tillett. Active English pianists overwhelmingly have at least two websites: a personal one and a page that can be accessed through their agents' sites. YouTube is one of the most powerful advertising tools for the early twenty- first-century concert pianist because the potential promoter can hear and usually see the performer in operation and does not have to rely solely on reportage.