In making a dueling pianos combo work you’ll find a genre that is filled with intrigue and joy. It calls us back to the golden age of entertainment where there were no talentless hacks on stage. Everyone knew how to play an instrument, sing, or dance. Plus, everyone was funny. How would you make a show like this work for you, and what are you getting yourself into by starting one?
A show of this ilk needs two really good piano players. Nobody’s saying that you have to be the world’s two best, but you certainly must be good. Audience members make requests, and you need to be able to deliver. A lack of confidence will not get you very far.
If you do ‘what you do’ well, then your half of the act will work. In fact, having a jazz pianist and a classical one on the same could make for some very funny back and forth.
Selecting your music should be a chore only because it makes the whole act go. You can be funny, but the people have to enjoy the music. On the one hand you may have a Brahms ballad, but on the other you may be playing the Barney theme song. It’s just that versatile of an act.
After you’ve gotten some music choices down you’ll need a script. Don’t worry, perhaps neither of you is the ‘writing type’ you could just find someone to write a comedic script for you. There are many outlets on the internet where a writer looking for work can be found. Many acts are only one good comedy writer away from entertainment gold.
There’s a script in place, the music is chosen, you’ve practiced the act and you think it’s funny. It’s time put the show to the test. Show your friends the act, do a free concert for them in a small venue and hope that people walk in off the street. If you’re racking up the laughs then you’re in business. If not, then you need to tweak the script, and since it’s already written the two of you can sit down and do that together.
Keep working on the act by auditioning for reality TV shows or talent contests. Whether you get a big break or a few paying gigs you’ll feel good knowing you created an act that people enjoy.
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