répétiteurs

A répétiteur is a professional who accompanies and coaches performers during rehearsals and performances, particularly in opera and classical music. The term comes from the French verb répéter, meaning to rehearse or repeat.

In music rehearsals, répétiteurs are usually pianists who play the orchestra reduction and guide singers through tempo, rhythm, dynamics, and diction. They work closely with singers, conductors, and other musicians, offering coaching on phrasing, style, and language pronunciation.

In opera houses and theatre, répétiteurs accompany daily rehearsals, run-throughs, and staging sessions. They may prepare vocal scores, provide cue counts, and adapt scores for rehearsal. They also offer language coaching for operatic repertoire in Italian, German, French, and English.

In educational and conservatory settings, répétiteurs can be teaching assistants or tutors who lead practice sessions, accompany students in examinations, and support teachers by providing specialized musical or language coaching.

Qualifications typically include formal training as a concert pianist or accompanist, strong sight-reading, extensive knowledge of repertoire and languages, and the ability to communicate clearly with performers and staff. The role often requires collaborative skills, flexibility with schedules, and the capacity to work under the direction of conductors and stage directors.