Job Description

Department: SE Campus

Position Title: School Accompanist

Reports to:  Artistic Administrator, SE Campus

Classification: Part-time, Seasonal

Hourly Wage Range: $40-$45

Location: 1901 Mississippi Ave SE, Washington, DC 20020

Scope:

The School Accompanist is a member of the music team responsible for providing live piano accompaniment for ballet and related dance classes, including classical ballet, pointe, pas de deux, variations, and character. The accompanist collaborates closely with faculty to provide music that supports technical instruction, artistry, and musicality for students of varying ages and levels. The successful candidate demonstrates excellent sight-reading, improvisation, and a broad classical repertoire while adapting to a variety of teaching styles.

General Responsibilities:

• Accompany ballet classes for students in Pre-Ballet through Upper Division, Trainee, and Adult Programs as assigned.
• Collaborate with faculty to provide music appropriate to the technical and artistic objectives of each class.
• Adjust tempo, dynamics, phrasing, and musical selections to meet instructional needs.
• Improvise when appropriate to support combinations and classroom instruction.
• Arrive prepared and on time for assigned classes and rehearsals.
• Maintain professional communication with faculty, supervisors, and staff.
• Attend accompanist meetings or training sessions as requested.

Internal Contacts:

School Director, Managing Director, Artistic Administrator, Faculty, other front-facing staff

Qualifications - Education and Experience

Professional experience accompanying ballet classes or rehearsals in a professional ballet company, conservatory, or dance school preferred.

Professional and Technical Competencies:

• Strong piano performance skills, including sight-reading and improvisation.
• Broad knowledge of classical music repertoire appropriate for ballet training.
• Understanding of ballet class structure, terminology, musical phrasing, and tempo.
• Ability to observe dancers while playing and respond quickly to instructional cues.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with faculty possessing a variety of teaching styles.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Flexible, dependable, and able to adapt to changing classroom needs.
• Supports the mission, values, and educational philosophy of The Washington Ballet and The Washington School of Ballet.

Knowledge of:

• Piano performance
• Classical music repertoire
• Music theory and improvisation
• Ballet terminology and class structure

Equipment Knowledge and Use:

• PC and software
• Standard office equipment

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit and play piano for extended periods.
• Ability to lift or move music books and materials up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to move between studios throughout the workday.
• Ability to work evenings and weekends as assigned.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The Washington Ballet is dedicated to fostering a welcoming environment in all aspects of its work, from artistic performances and ballet education to community engagement and workplace culture. We prioritize presenting artists and perspectives that reflect the dynamism of DC. Through our community partnerships and campus locations, we intentionally bring opportunities to communities throughout the DMV, ensuring fairness in hiring and employment practices.

Benefits

• Paid Sick Leave
• Free adult drop-in dance classes
• Comp and discount tickets to TWB shows

Application Instructions

Please submit your resume, cover letter, and three references. We encourage all interested applicants to apply even if they do not feel they meet 100% of the qualifications. We are dedicated to considering a wide array of candidates including those with non-traditional background and experience in the performing arts. Please use your cover letter to elaborate on what you hope to bring to this role and how your prior experience has prepared you for this opportunity.

About The Washington Ballet

Founded more than 80 years ago, The Washington Ballet grew out of the success of The Washington School of Ballet, founded and directed for years by legendary dance pioneer Mary Day. Today, The Washington Ballet's mission is threefold: To bring the joy and artistry of dance to the nation's capital and the world's stage through the professional presentation of the best in classic and contemporary ballet; to provide the highest caliber of dance training through a preeminent school of ballet; and to serve and involve the entire community through extensive dance education and community engagement programs.

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