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- Tasks: Play piano for ballet classes and rehearsals, with occasional performance opportunities.
- Company: Join The Royal Ballet, a world-renowned classical ballet company at Covent Garden.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary of £54,111 and the chance to work in a vibrant artistic environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a diverse team enriching lives through ballet and opera, while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Must have substantial experience in professional ballet music and a strong understanding of classical repertoire.
- Other info: Applications close on 14th April 2025; auditions on 15th May 2025.
The predicted salary is between 46000 - 60000 £ per year.
The Royal Ballet and Opera aims to enrich people’s lives through opera and ballet. Home to two of the world’s great artistic companies - The Royal Opera and The Royal Ballet, performing with the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House - the organisation seeks to be accessible and engaging, to develop audiences across the UK and to break new ground in the presentation of lyric theatre.
The Royal Ballet, one of the leading classical ballet companies in the world, is seeking to appoint a Pianist to join the team of Music staff. Reporting to the Head of Music, the pianist will be required to play for class and rehearsal, as scheduled, with opportunities to play for occasional performances. The post will commence in August 2026.
The ideal candidate will be a highly experienced and professional team player with these qualities:
- A high level of pianism and general musicianship, and a good understanding of the dance-music relationship
- Substantial experience of playing for professional ballet class and rehearsal
- A broad knowledge of the classical ballet repertoire
- Ability to respond in a positive way to feedback and direction, and to demonstrate effective teamwork and harmonious working relationships
- The ability to perform Concertos and Solo Piano works in performance
- Commitment to managing own learning and continuous professional development relevant to the role
The Royal Ballet and Opera is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment in which everyone can thrive. We particularly welcome applications from those who are from a global majority background and/or those who are disabled, as they are under-represented within our organisation. As a Disability Confident Employer, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential minimum criteria for our vacancies.
A full job description and details of how to apply are available on our website or from the HR Department. Closing Date for applications: 8.00am, Monday 14th April 2025. Auditions will be held Thursday 15th May 2025. All successful candidates from the auditions stage will be invited to take part in a trial period during the 2025-26 season. Trialists will be paid for the sessions worked at our union agreed pay rate, pro rata. The successful candidate is required to commence in post from August 2026.
Pianist, The Royal Ballet - Covent Garden employer: ROYAL BALLET AND OPERA
Contact Detail:
ROYAL BALLET AND OPERA Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Pianist, The Royal Ballet - Covent Garden
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the classical ballet repertoire, especially pieces commonly used in ballet classes and rehearsals. This knowledge will not only enhance your playing but also demonstrate your commitment to the role during auditions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former musicians from The Royal Ballet or similar organisations. Engaging with them can provide valuable insights into the audition process and the expectations of the role, which can give you an edge.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice responding to feedback in a constructive manner. During auditions, you may receive direction on your playing style or interpretation, and showing that you can adapt positively will highlight your teamwork skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Consider attending workshops or masterclasses focused on playing for dance. This experience can deepen your understanding of the dance-music relationship and improve your ability to accompany ballet classes effectively.
We think you need these skills to ace Pianist, The Royal Ballet - Covent Garden
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Familiarise yourself with the specific requirements of the Pianist position at The Royal Ballet. Pay attention to the skills and experience they are looking for, such as substantial experience in playing for professional ballet classes and rehearsals.
Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight relevant experience in classical music and ballet. Include specific examples of your work with ballet companies or similar environments, showcasing your understanding of the dance-music relationship.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for ballet and music. Mention your commitment to continuous professional development and how you can contribute to the team at The Royal Ballet. Be sure to address any specific qualities mentioned in the job description.
Prepare for Auditions: Since auditions are part of the selection process, prepare thoroughly. Select pieces that demonstrate your ability to perform Concertos and Solo Piano works, and practice responding positively to feedback, as this is crucial for teamwork in a ballet setting.
How to prepare for a job interview at ROYAL BALLET AND OPERA
✨Showcase Your Pianism
Make sure to demonstrate your high level of pianism during the interview. Prepare a few pieces that highlight your technical skills and musicality, especially those that relate to ballet. This will give the interviewers a clear sense of your abilities.
✨Understand the Dance-Music Relationship
Familiarise yourself with how music interacts with dance. Be ready to discuss your understanding of this relationship and how it influences your playing style. This knowledge is crucial for a role at The Royal Ballet.
✨Prepare for Feedback
During the interview, be open to receiving feedback on your playing. Show that you can respond positively to direction and adapt your performance accordingly. This quality is essential for effective teamwork within the company.
✨Know the Repertoire
Brush up on your knowledge of classical ballet repertoire. Be prepared to discuss specific works and composers that are significant in the ballet world. This will demonstrate your commitment to the role and your understanding of the art form.
