<p>amother: I mentioned this peripherally when you originally posted about your son's experience in middle school/junior high, but here goes again: If he is a good pianist, but not of the inclination to spend the hours of solo practicing, he can find a way to socialize through his piano, by accompanying. He can accompany the choir, or he can link up with some of the area private music students/teachers, i.e. strings, singers, etc., and play for them, at their lessons, or at competitions. His ability to do it, and his willingness to do it will put him in close social contact with lots of other people, bright, dedicated people. He might make some money doing it....if he choses to charge, or he might develop it into a very desirable EC. Premiere universities have lots of kids who play their instruments very well, but not so many who have experience accompanying or are willing to do so. There is a lot which could be said in an essay about such experiences. Ensembles make great peer groups for kids....good luck! </p>
<p>BTW: they call this being a "collaborative pianist" now, whole degree programs in the field. It is not called accompanying, sorry.</p>