School Accompanist - NW Campus

Washington Ballet Company; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 30,000 - 50,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid Sick Leave

Free adult drop-in dance classes

Comp and discount tickets to TWB shows

Job summary

The Washington Ballet Company is seeking a School Accompanist responsible for live piano accompaniment for ballet classes, engaging with faculty to provide supportive music for students of various levels.

Ideal candidates should possess strong piano skills, improvisation capabilities, and extensive knowledge of classical music tailored for ballet training. The role requires excellent communication and organizational abilities, ensuring effective collaboration with diverse teaching styles.

Benefits include paid sick leave and free dance class opportunities.

Qualifications

• Professional experience accompanying ballet classes or rehearsals.
• Strong piano performance skills and broad knowledge of classical repertoire.
• Ability to adapt to various teaching styles.

Responsibilities

• Accompany ballet classes from Pre-Ballet to Adult Programs.
• Collaborate with faculty to adjust music according to class objectives.
• Maintain professional communication with faculty and staff.

Skills

Sight-reading

Improvisation

Classical music repertoire

Piano performance

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Education

Professional experience in ballet accompanying

Tools

PC and office software

Job description

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.

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