Eye Contact with Accompanist

When playing a solo with piano, don't overvalue the need for eye contact with your pianist. In fact, I don't worry about it all. I recommend standing as close into the crook of the piano as possible while facing outwards with your bell pointing directly towards your audience. This position makes it easy to hear everything that's coming from the piano, and makes it very easy for the pianist to see you. Remember, you are the leader of the group and THE PIANIST IS ACCOMPANYING YOU. Therefore, it is very important that the pianist see you clearly, but not very important that you see him/her. Have faith that your accompanist will follow you well, and make their job easier by taking breaths and giving subtle cues with your slide that make it clear where you will begin your phrases.