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- Tasks: Play piano for ballet classes and rehearsals, gaining valuable experience in a professional setting.
- Company: Join The Royal Ballet, a leading arts organisation with a rich cultural heritage.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and the chance to work with world-class artists.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace committed to diversity and continuous learning.
- Why this job: Be part of an iconic institution and enhance your skills in a vibrant artistic environment.
- Qualifications: High level of pianism, teamwork skills, and a passion for ballet music.
The predicted salary is between 30784 - 30784 £ per year.
Fixed Term Contract – 10 months (Starting from late August/early September 2026)
Salary £30,784 per annum (pro rata for the fixed term).
Location: Covent Garden, London
The Royal Ballet and Opera continues to lead the way in opera, ballet, music and dance both live on stage and through multiple digital platforms, from live streaming to worldwide cinema screenings. Our Covent Garden theatre has been at the heart of London and British cultural life for three centuries. We are home to two world-class Companies: The Royal Ballet and The Royal Opera.
As part of our commitment to support development, The Royal Ballet is offering an opportunity to take part in this year’s Associate Pianist programme. Applications for the Associate Pianist role are invited from pianists aspiring to gain experience of the skills required to play for professional ballet class and rehearsals. Reporting to the Head of Music, the Associate Pianist will be able to initially learn the skills required to play for class and rehearsal, with coaching sessions from members of the Music Department, before beginning to play for company classes and rehearsals after a few months. The post is offered as a fixed term contract for 10 months during the main ballet season, from September 2026 – June 2027.
The successful applicant will have directed study and preparation to gain experience of The Royal Ballet repertoire and of playing for scheduled class and rehearsals, as well as other events with The Royal Ballet. The programme includes coaching and guidance on building networks relevant to the role and the profession.
The ideal candidate will be a professional team player with these qualities:
- A high level of pianism and general musicianship, and a good understanding of the dance-music relationship
- Some experience of playing for professional ballet class and rehearsal or the ability to demonstrate in audition the skills required to achieve this in a short space of time
- Ability to develop 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 flexibility to be available for scheduled classes and rehearsals
- Commitment to managing own learning and continuous professional development relevant to the role
- Good English language skills, both speaking and reading
The Royal Ballet and Opera is one of the UK’s leading arts organisations and our aim is to inspire imagination, ignite emotion and make the extraordinary for everyone. Equality, Diversity and Inclusion underpin all that we do. We want our people to be representative of the diversity in the UK. We understand the creativity and innovation that diversity can bring and strive to create an inclusive environment in which everyone can thrive.
We encourage applications from people with a wide range of backgrounds, experiences and skills to join our teams. 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. We are a Disability Confident Employer, which means that we are actively working to ensure that candidates with disabilities and long-term health conditions feel supported, engaged and able to fulfil their potential in the workplace.
The RBO is also committed to safeguarding and protecting all children, young people, and adults and we implement robust safer recruitment practices. Due to our safeguarding promise, certain roles will be subject to a DBS check before commencing employment with us, which will be indicated in the advertising.
Closing date for applications: 11:59pm, Monday 6th April 2026
Auditions will be held on: Wednesday 6th May 2026. Auditions must be in-person in London, online auditions will not be possible. To ensure a fair process, late applications will not be considered under any circumstances. Applicants must have work authorisation for the UK. No agencies.
Associate Pianist, The Royal Ballet - WC2E 9DD in Harefield employer: ROYAL BALLET AND OPERA
Contact Detail:
ROYAL BALLET AND OPERA Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Pianist, The Royal Ballet - WC2E 9DD in Harefield
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the Royal Ballet's vibe! Watch their performances, follow them on social media, and immerse yourself in their world. This will help you connect with their mission and show your genuine interest during auditions.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your audition pieces like they’re going to be performed live! Play for friends or family to get comfortable with an audience. The more relaxed you are, the better you’ll perform when it counts.
✨Tip Number 3
Network, network, network! Reach out to current or former members of the Royal Ballet community. They can offer insights and tips that could give you an edge. Plus, it’s always good to have connections in the industry!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Pianist, The Royal Ballet - WC2E 9DD in Harefield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Application Guide: Before diving into your application, make sure to check out the application guide provided by The Royal Ballet. It’s packed with useful info that’ll help you understand what they’re looking for and how to present yourself best.
Showcase Your Skills: When writing your application, highlight your pianism and musicianship. Don’t just list your experiences; share specific examples of how you've played for ballet classes or rehearsals, and how you’ve developed your understanding of the dance-music relationship.
Be Yourself: Let your personality shine through in your application! The Royal Ballet values diversity and inclusion, so don’t hesitate to share your unique background and experiences that make you a great fit for their team.
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity with The Royal Ballet!
How to prepare for a job interview at ROYAL BALLET AND OPERA
✨Know Your Repertoire
Familiarise yourself with The Royal Ballet's repertoire before the interview. Being able to discuss specific pieces and how they relate to your playing style will show your passion and preparedness.
✨Demonstrate Your Skills
Be ready to showcase your pianism during the audition. Prepare a few excerpts that highlight your ability to accompany ballet classes and rehearsals, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Emphasise Teamwork
The Royal Ballet values collaboration, so be prepared to discuss your experiences working in a team. Share examples of how you've successfully worked with dancers or other musicians in the past.
✨Stay Open to Feedback
Show that you can take direction positively. During the interview, express your willingness to learn and adapt based on feedback, which is essential for growth in this role.