Expert: Wanda Reinholdt - 4/14/2009

Question
QUESTION: I hope you can answer this but if you can't, don't worry about it. I was wondering if you could point me in the right direction. I'm only 13 now but I would really like to get a head start at becoming a famous piano player. I've been playing piano for 6 years and I've had lots of experience with performing (I have played at local nursing homes, talent shows, and accompany my Jr. High's Chior twice a year) and I would like to know if I should get a manager or an agent. Also, what is a good price range? I asked for information from one company (with the premission of my mom) and when they called back, they said it would be $395 for this lady to be my agent for 3 years. My mom declined the offer because she didn't want them to just take our money and say their aren't any auditions. I'm not sure what you should look for in angent or manager (or if they're even worth getting) and what a 'good' price range is. Thanks for your time.

Ariel

ANSWER: Hi there, Ariel...And thanks for writing.  

To answer your question, help me understand what level you are at in piano.  What kind of music do you play?  What level of difficulty?  

And also, are your parents interested in you having a career like this?

Once I know the answers to these questions, I will be able to help you further.

Wanda

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I'm not really sure how to explain my level but I'll try the best I can. I can sight read pretty well (The most I can read without making it sound choppy is advanced chords in the right hand and basic/intermediate in the left hand). It took me 4 weeks to learn the piece Clair De Lune by Claude Debussy (the original version) which I finished learning about a week ago. Currently, I'm working on the piece Keep Your Lamps (I'm not sure who composed it) for my choir. It is very advanced in my opinion because it is in the key of A minor and a couple of the chords in the right hand have 4 or 5 notes. I also can play Fur Elise by Ludwig van Beethoven. My piano teacher told me that my interpretation of the piece was amazing and that its one of the best that she's ever heard in her life (including adults and professionals).

My parents are supportive of mostly everything I do. I'm lucky to have them! They most likely would be ok with spend a large amount of money to support my career if I am completely serious  (which I am) about having this career.

If the above information about my skill level is unclear, I'm sorry. I'm not exactly sure what you need to know.

Answer
Hi there, Ariel...Sorry it has taken me a bit to get back to you.  I am working on a show right now.  

What I am hearing is that you are talented.  And I am also hearing that you interpret which is terrific.  So continue to practice and to find any kind of opportunity to perform anywhere.  

In addition, I would suggest that you call some other agents and the agent you called before.  Get prices for a year to compare and also get references - who have they managed or been an agent for that also plays the piano.  I would hire someone who is an agent for someone else that also plays piano.  By having someone with experience in being an agent for a piano player, the more understanding and helpful they will be.

BTW I do think that the price that you were given was ok.  But always compare and always get companies to give you the names of others they represent.  Then call these other people they represent to find out their reputation.  If you can't get names, then I would not hire them for you.  

I think that if you find the proper agent and you have the support of your parents, that you can definitely do well.  

Does that help you?

Wanda