International Ballet Pianist Symposium

PROGRAM

Schedule

3:30pm - 4pm | Welcome

Check in, collect your symposium materials, enjoy complimentary coffee, and connect with fellow participants before the official welcome and introduction to the symposium.

4pm - 6pm | The Anatomy of the Ballet Class

An observational study of the structure, pedagogy, and musical framework of the classical ballet class through a live demonstration featuring a professional ballet teacher and dancers. Participants will examine the pedagogical progression of the class from barre to centre, the functional role of musical phrasing, meter, and tempo, and the collaborative relationship between teacher, pianist, and dancer. Through guided analysis and a stop-and-go methodology, Ellina Akimova will illustrate the musical and artistic considerations that inform effective ballet accompaniment in a professional studio setting.

6pm - 6:30pm | Q&A and Break

An opportunity to ask questions, reflect on the session, and connect with faculty and fellow participants over complimentary refreshments.

18:30 - 20:15 | Music Arrangement for Ballet Class and Rehearsals

An applied study of the principles of music arrangement and adaptation for the classical ballet class. Participants will examine the structural, stylistic, and practical considerations involved in preparing repertoire for use in the ballet studio through analysis, score reduction, guided exercises, and collaborative application. Topics include: - Structuring music for ballet class (introductions, combinations, transitions, and endings) - Adapting classical and contemporary repertoire for dance - Using improvisation - Reducing orchestral scores for piano - Comparing original works with ballet-adapted versions - Hands-on score adaptation and arranging exercises - Group work and practical application under Ellina Akimova's guidance

9am - 10am | Commercial Readiness: Recording & Publishing

Drawing on Ellina Akimova's extensive experience producing the acclaimed La Danse Accompagnée collection, this session explores the artistic and technical process of creating professional ballet class recordings. Topics include: - Planning a complete ballet class recording - Repertoire selection and sequencing - Studio recording techniques - Working with producers and sound engineers - Preparing scores and recording materials - Commercial publication and professional considerations - Distribution of selected repertoire and reference materials

10am -11am | Shaping movement through phrasing and dynamics

An applied study of musical accompaniment focused on pirrouettes and allegro through live demonstration with professional dancers. Participants will examine how the pianist supports technical execution while enhancing movement through phrasing, rhythm, dynamics, and tempo. Throughout the session, participants will have the opportunity to apply these principles through guided, hands-on accompaniment exercises. Topics include: - Musical accompaniment for pirouettes and turning exercises - Accompanying petit and grand allegro - Shaping movement through phrasing, articulation, and dynamics - Establishing tempo to promote stability, balance, and coordination in turns - Supporting elevation, precision, and propulsion in jumping exercises - Rhythmic clarity and musical energy - Guided hands-on accompaniment with professional dancers - Live coaching and faculty feedback

11am - 12pm | Variations

An applied study of accompaniment for the classical variation, focusing on the relationship between musical interpretation and choreography. Topics include: - Choreographic and musical analysis - Mapping musical structure to movement - Tempo planning and expressive pacing - Anticipating choreographic transitions and accelerations - Balancing the roles of accompanist, conductor, and collaborative musician

12pm - 1pm | Lunch Break

1pm - 3pm | The Musical Dialogue: Pianist, Conductor & Dancer

Led by ballet conductor Geneviève Leclair, this interactive, hands-on session explores the role of the pianist throughout the ballet rehearsal and performance process from the conductor's perspective. Through live collaboration with professional dancers, participants will develop the musical flexibility, communication, and artistic awareness required to support rehearsals and performances at the highest professional level. Topics include: - The role of the ballet conductor in rehearsal and performance - Collaborating with conductors, ballet masters, répétiteurs, and artistic directors - Reducing orchestral scores for ballet rehearsals - Adapting musical interpretation to different dancers and choreographic styles - Tempo, cueing, and musical communication in the rehearsal studio - Understanding when to lead with the conductor's musical vision and when to respond to the dancer - Supporting a dancer's phrasing, line, and artistic intention rather than simply following movement - Preparing dancers for orchestral performance - Professional pathways and career opportunities for ballet pianists, including employment settings and compensation Each participant will accompany a professional dancer in live rehearsal, receiving individual coaching and feedback from Geneviève Leclair and Ellina Akimova. The session concludes with faculty critique, peer discussion, and reflection on the collaborative artistry of ballet rehearsal.

3pm - 4pm | Symposium Reflection & Closing Discussion

The symposium concludes with a faculty-led discussion, participant reflections, and an open question-and-answer session, followed by an informal networking reception. Topics include: - Q&A - Symposium reflections - Discussion of key concepts and future applications - Networking with faculty and fellow participants - Closing remarks