Finding the right accompanist for an exam or performance can be tricky. Here at MusicSmart, we provide experienced, professional accompanists for all graded examinations, GCSE and “A” Level Performance Examinations, concerts and shows. Our accompanists work in the Bognor Regis and Chichester areas. For accompanying outside these areas, additional travelling expenses will be added. Price on request.
Our accompanists’ supportive and encouraging approach will help to make you feel at ease and to have confidence for your upcoming exam or performance. We have experience in accompanying a wide range of instruments and are available for ABRSM, Trinity and other exam boards and genres.
We can also offer Aural Test training for those candidates that would find this beneficial. Please email or phone for more details of this service.
For venues that do not have a piano, we can provide a good quality Roland ‘stage’ piano.
Fees for Accompanying Face to Face Exams
- Grades 1–2: £35.00 to include one rehearsal and attendance at exam
- Grades 3–4: £45.00 to include one rehearsal and attendance at exam
- Grades 5–6: £55.00 to include one rehearsal and attendance at the exam
- Grades 7–8, GCSE and “A” Level Performance Accompaniment: Fees on request after initial telephone consultation
Fees for Accompanying Performance and Digital Exams
- Grades 1–2: 3 or 4 pieces accompanied £40.00 to include one rehearsal of 30 mins maximum, and attendance at exam with a time limit of 30 mins
- Grades 3–4: 3 pieces accompanied £50.00 to include one rehearsal of 30 mins maximum, and attendance at exam with a time limit of 30 mins. 4 pieces accompanied £55.00
- Grades 5–6: 3 pieces accompanied £60.00 to include one rehearsal of 30 mins maximum, and attendance at the exam with a time limit of 30 mins; 4 pieces accompanied £65.00
- Grades 7–8, GCSE and “A” Level Performance Accompaniment: Fees on request after initial telephone consultation
Extra rehearsals with your accompanist will be charged at our hourly rate.
Please note these fees are subject to change for last minute bookings of accompanists.
Piano Accompanist FAQs
Where is the piano music for my accompanist?
The piano music should be with your instrumental music and your accompanist will ask you to drop it round/send it prior to the rehearsal. If you can’t find the piano part, it is always a good idea to ask your teacher.
Do I need to bring a music stand to my rehearsals?
Your accompanist will have a music stand but please feel free to bring your own.
Will I need more than one rehearsal with my accompanist?
That will depend how things go at your first rehearsal. You are more than welcome to book extra rehearsals, which is always advisable for Grade 5 and above. These extra rehearsals are charged at our hourly rate, available on request.
Will I have time for a run through with my accompanist on the day of the exam?
For face to face exams taken at a designated exam centre, your accompanist will arrive in plenty of time on the exam day for a short practice should you require one.
For performance and digital exams, a run through may be possible as long as the run through and the recording session does not exceed the 30 mins time allowance. If a longer session is needed, the time will be charged at our hourly rate which is available on request.
When do I have to pay for my accompanist?
Please bring payment to your first rehearsal and then subsequent rehearsals, if needed, can be paid for as you have them at our hourly rate, available on request.
Do you have policies for the welfare, safety and enjoyment of students?
Yes. Please download our Handbook (PDF, opens in new tab/window) which provides you with information regarding our protocols, procedures, expectations of members and policies. It is required that you read and agree to the rules and conditions of the handbook prior to taking part in any MusicSmart activities.