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- Tasks: Join our classical piano orchestra and play bass alongside two talented pianists.
- Company: Moonlight creates immersive classical music experiences, pushing the boundaries of traditional concerts.
- Benefits: Freelance contract with competitive pay and the chance to perform at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
- Other info: Performances scheduled for August 2025; deadline for applications is 10 July 2025.
- Why this job: Be part of a creative team, enjoy collaborative performances, and gain exposure in prestigious festivals.
- Qualifications: Professional pianist skills required; creativity and teamwork are essential.
We are looking for a third pianist for our unique classical piano orchestra (called 'cirque du piano'), which enjoys playing music for three pianists at one piano! You would be bass and would assist our secondo/middle pianist Matthew Shiel and primo pianist Ailsa Aitkenhead.
We are already booked to perform eight shows in the Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2025, following our successful run at Fringe 24. The five shows (lasting one hour) will take place at Fringe Venue 197 (St Vincent's Chapel): WED 06, THU 07, SAT 09, WED 13, FRI 15, THU 19, WED 20, SAT 23 @ 8.30PM.
We are looking for a creative and imaginative pianist who can play the bass part:
- Stars and Stripes Forever – John Philip Sousa
- Fantasy after Scottish Folk Songs – Carl Czerny
- Romance – Sergei Rachmaninoff
- Rondo alla Turka (‘Turkish March’) – Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
- Marche funèbre d’une Marionette – Charles-François Gonoud
- Carillon de St Pierre - Georges Malézieux
- Toccata and Fugue in D minor – Johann Sebastian Bach
- Overture from the Barber of Seville – Gioachino Rossini
The music is not hard for a professional pianist; it is more the challenge of playing with two other pianists – which is a lot of fun actually!
Moonlight is a performing arts company that creates immersive classical music experiences, concerts, shows and exhibitions. It celebrates interdisciplinary collaboration with writers and storytellers, visual artists, dancers and filmmakers (and beyond) to push the boundaries of what a classical concert can be and create the 'performance of the future.' Moonlight reimagines what a concert can be.
Our shows have received several five-star reviews in the press and collaborate with festivals across the UK including the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the Brighton Fringe:
- "Matthew Shiel 'composed' a most enchanting concert" (Edinburgh Guide)
- "Sim and Shiel both are masters of their crafts" (Binge Fringe Magazine)
- "Matthew Shiel shone" (Three Weeks)
Successful collaborations often develop into long-term creative partnerships beyond the Fringe.
Contract: Freelance
Fee: £468.70 (10 hours work in total; 8 hours performing and two hours rehearsing; rate of pay: £46.87 per hour)
The deadline is Thursday 10 July 2025 at 13:45.
Pianist employer: Creative Scotland
Contact Detail:
Creative Scotland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Pianist
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the repertoire listed in the job description. Practising these pieces will not only enhance your performance skills but also demonstrate your commitment and readiness to join the ensemble.
✨Tip Number 2
Reach out to the current pianists, Matthew Shiel and Ailsa Aitkenhead, if possible. Engaging with them can provide insights into their playing styles and the dynamics of performing together, which is crucial for this role.
✨Tip Number 3
Attend performances or workshops related to collaborative piano playing. This experience will help you understand the nuances of playing alongside other musicians and improve your adaptability in a group setting.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your creativity and imagination in your interactions with the team. Being part of an innovative project like 'cirque du piano' means that your ability to think outside the box will be highly valued.
We think you need these skills to ace Pianist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Familiarise yourself with the unique requirements of being a third pianist in a classical piano orchestra. Pay attention to the specific pieces listed in the job description and consider how your skills align with the role.
Craft a Tailored CV: Highlight your relevant experience as a pianist, especially any collaborative performances or experiences that showcase your ability to work with other musicians. Make sure to include any notable performances or festivals you've participated in.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: Express your passion for music and your enthusiasm for the opportunity to perform at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Mention your creativity and imagination as a pianist, and how you can contribute to the unique experience of 'cirque du piano'.
Prepare for Potential Auditions: While not explicitly mentioned, be ready to demonstrate your skills on the piano, particularly with the pieces listed. Consider recording a video of your performance to include with your application, showcasing your ability to play collaboratively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Creative Scotland
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
Since you'll be playing alongside two other pianists, it's crucial to demonstrate your ability to collaborate effectively. Share examples from your past experiences where teamwork led to a successful performance or project.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Repertoire
Make sure you know the pieces listed in the job description. Practising these works will not only prepare you for the role but also show your commitment and enthusiasm during the interview.
✨Emphasise Creativity and Imagination
Moonlight values creativity in their performances. Be ready to discuss how you can bring your unique flair to the music and any ideas you might have for enhancing the overall performance experience.
✨Prepare for a Practical Demonstration
Be prepared for the possibility of a practical audition during the interview. Brush up on your skills and be ready to showcase your ability to play the bass part while interacting with the other pianists.