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Ballet Pianist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Philadelphia Ballet

Piano Intern

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

The School of Philadelphia Ballet (SPB) Piano Internship provides an opportunity for talented piano students to gain hands-on experience accompanying professional ballet classes in a supportive ...

Philadelphia Ballet

Piano Intern

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

The School of Philadelphia Ballet (SPB) Piano Internship provides an opportunity for talented piano students to gain hands-on experience accompanying professional ballet classes in a supportive ...

Philadelphia Ballet

Piano Intern

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

The School of Philadelphia Ballet (SPB) Piano Internship provides an opportunity for talented piano students to gain hands-on experience accompanying professional ballet classes in a supportive ...

Boston Conservatory

Dance Accompanist

Boston, MA

$40/hr

Required skills for ballet technique class accompanist: * Advanced classical piano technique * Excellent sight reading ability and ability to learn intermediate to advanced music quickly

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Ballet Pianist information

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How much do ballet pianist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for ballet pianist in the United States is $26.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a ballet pianist?

A Ballet Pianist is a musician who plays piano for ballet classes, rehearsals, and sometimes performances. They provide live accompaniment, adjusting tempo and expression to match the dancers’ movements and needs. This role requires strong sight-reading skills, improvisation ability, and knowledge of ballet structure. Ballet Pianists collaborate closely with dance instructors to enhance the learning and artistic experience.

What does a ballet pianist do?

A typical day for a Ballet Pianist involves accompanying multiple ballet classes or rehearsals, which may include warm-ups, barre exercises, center work, and rehearsal for specific pieces. Pianists often collaborate closely with dance instructors and choreographers, adapting music to match the pace and dynamics required for each class or performance. Additional tasks may include selecting appropriate music, learning new scores, and occasionally playing for auditions or performances. The role requires flexibility, strong time management, and the ability to respond quickly to feedback from both teachers and dancers, creating a supportive and motivating environment.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a ballet pianist?

To thrive as a Ballet Pianist, you need exceptional piano proficiency, strong sight-reading abilities, and a thorough understanding of ballet music and dance terminology, usually supported by formal music training. Familiarity with a range of classical and contemporary repertoire, as well as experience using digital sheet music and recording equipment, is valuable. Excellent communication, adaptability, and timing are important soft skills for effectively collaborating with dance instructors and adjusting to dancers’ needs. These competencies ensure seamless accompaniment and support dancers’ performance and learning in rehearsals and classes.

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Ballet Pianist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ballet Pianist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 56% Full Time, 40% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,282 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

School Pianist

SAN FRANCISCO BALLET ASSOCIATION

San Francisco, CA

$42.86/hr

Part-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Job Title: School Pianist (Part-Time)
Department: School
Reports To: School Pianist Supervisor 
Classification: Part-time, non-exempt 
Compensation: $42.86 per hour for teaching, $31 per hour for meetings
Application Deadline: Open until filled 

Position Summary:

San Francisco Ballet School is seeking enthusiastic, collaborative pianists to provide live accompaniment for ballet classes throughout the School, including Children's Division, Pre-Ballet, Levels 1–8, the Adult Program, and community outreach programs. Previous ballet accompaniment experience is welcome but not required. Comprehensive mentorship and on-the-job training are provided for pianists with strong musical skills who are interested in developing as ballet accompanists. We welcome applicants from a variety of musical backgrounds who are excited to learn and grow in a collaborative environment.

Essential Responsibilities: 

  • Provide live piano accompaniment for ballet classes and outreach programs. • Work closely with faculty to support the musical and artistic needs of each class.
  • Adapt tempo, phrasing, dynamics, and musical style to match classroom instruction.
  • Improvise or modify music as appropriate for class exercises.
  • Create an engaging, supportive musical environment for students of all ages and levels.
  • Arrive prepared, on time, and ready to collaborate with faculty and fellow pianists.
  • Attend occasional meetings and training sessions as requested.

Qualifications:

  • Strong piano performance skills and solid overall musicianship.
  • Comfortable sight-reading and the ability to learn music efficiently.
  • Ability to improvise or adapt music is highly valued. Experience in jazz, church music, musical theatre, collaborative piano, or other improvisatory styles is encouraged.
  • Professional, dependable, collaborative, and eager to learn.
  • Willingness to receive coaching and develop ballet accompaniment skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience accompanying dance classes or other collaborative performance settings is helpful but not required.
  • Degree or current study in piano performance, collaborative piano, jazz studies, music education, or a related field is preferred but not required.

Work Schedule:

  • Part-time positions are available throughout the academic year, summer programs, and occasional community outreach activities. Classes are scheduled weekdays, evenings, and weekends, with assignments based on availability and the needs of the School.

Application Procedure

We prefer you apply online

NO CALLS, PLEASE

San Francisco Ballet Association is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to employing a diverse staff.

Qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records will be considered for the positionin accordance withthe Fair Chance Ordinance (FCO).

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