We had a visitor at church a couple of weeks ago, who is in the area pursuing a graduate degree in finance. When some of the congregants introduced themselves and learned that he also plays piano, however, they brought him over to the organ and introduced him to me. I am always glad to invite the members of my congregation who play instruments to play a solo during services, and to make our guest feel welcome (and hopefully to draw him back while he remains in the area) I extended the invitation to him as well. However, now that hes taken me up on the offer, Im not quite sure how to proceed. Finding suitable works in which I can accompany folks who play other instruments is never a problem, and it helps me to maintain quality control. But with another keyboard player it seems a bit trickier. This may sound like Im being paranoid about my job, but thats not the problem. I have a great relationship with my congregation, am not insecure about my playing, and (at least at this time) have zero concerns about being replaced. That said, I am aware that is my responsibility to ensure that service music is of suitable quality and character, and Im not sure how to program our guest into the service. Also, even if Im not worried about being upstaged (its bound to happen sooner or later) I do have a related concern, which is that I dont want it to seem as though Im abandoning my post and turning the reigns to someone else. Im the one whos getting paid to play, after all, and I dont pay our guest musicians unless they are professionals or music majors in college. Would it be appropriate if I just invite our guest to play a solo on piano? If so, should I recommend a selection, just see what he has in his hands, or recommend that he and I play something for 4 hands? Or should I invite him to play a duet for piano and organ? And if so, any recommendations for something suitable? Sorry for the long question and thanks in advance for any advice you are able to share!
Posted on: Wed, 19 Nov 2014 04:41:17 +0000
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