Final answer:
When a pianist plays exceptionally well, the orchestra complements and enhances the performance by playing harmoniously, adjusting their dynamics, and contributing to the overall musical experience.
Step-by-step explanation:
The passage suggests that when "he played the piano so well," it likely had a profound effect on those who were listening, including the orchestra if there was one. From the various contexts provided, we can infer that the orchestras often serve to enhance and collaborate with a solo performance, especially one that resonates with emotional depth and technical proficiency. For example, in the narrative about the improvisation in a fish market in Odessa, playing Beethoven's "Ode to Joy" served to uplift and unite people during tense times, showing how music can transcend immediate circumstances and elevate the spirits of both players and listeners.
In the scenario where Richard Wagner conceptualized the orchestra pit, the purpose was to have the music support the theatrical performance in a way that seemed magical to the audience, seamlessly integrating with the actions on stage without the audience being focused on the musicians themselves.
Therefore, in response to the student's question, the orchestra would likely have followed the lead of the pianist, contributing to the richness of the performance and enhancing the shared musical experience. Whether by playing along harmoniously, by altering their dynamics to match the emotion of the piano, or by providing an auditory backdrop that complements the piano's melody, the orchestra's role is to work in concert with the pianist to create a beautiful and immersive musical event.