The Company
The Australian Ballet is a globally recognised, leading Australian performing arts company. For over six decades we have delivered exceptional performances to generations of audience members across Australia and the world. Hundreds of dancers, choreographers, designers, teachers, composers, costumiers, and a passionate supporting cast have turned the company into an iconic Australian company on and off the stage.
With a commitment to “Care for Tradition and Dare to be Different” at every level of the organisation, tradition and innovation go hand in hand at The Australian Ballet. Over 250 passionate artists and staff work in this inspiring company.
The Opportunity
The Australian Ballet is seeking an experienced ballet pianist to join the Music Team. Applicants must be expert pianists, have considerable experience in playing for professional ballet classes and rehearsals, and a broad knowledge of the classical ballet repertoire. Pianists of The Australian Ballet can be asked to perform orchestral piano and keyboards in the Company’s seasons. Additionally, they may be invited to perform as soloists
The Australian Ballet is based in Melbourne but undertakes extensive touring every year, in Australia and overseas. In particular, the Company spends approximately 12-14 weeks a year in Sydney (one period of approx. 6 weeks in April/May and a second in November/December).
Responsibilities of this role include:
- Prepare for and accompany classy studio and stage rehearsals,
- Play as orchestral pianist in TAB performances as required
- Perform as soloist in TAB performances as agreed with the Music Director and Principal Pianist
- Participate in music department meetings
- Assist with music library work if required
- Undertake other duties as reasonably requested by the Principal Pianist and/or Music Director
Desired Skills and Experience
- Professional level pianistic abilities
- Post graduate qualifications or equivalent experience
- Experience in accompanying ballet classes and rehearsals at a professional level
- Experience as an orchestral pianist
- Experience as a piano soloist
- Strong sight-reading and improvisational skills
- Knowledge of ballet terminology and classical ballet conventions
- Ability to sustain concentration and focus over extended periods of time
- Physical and mental stamina
- Ability to maintain the integrity of the music over extended periods
- A well-developed appreciation of and sensitivity to the role of the ‘accompanist’ and the accompanist’s impact on the work of the individual dancer
- Effective communication skills with all colleagues
- Team worker
- Patience and understanding
- Flexibility and adaptability
- Ability to self-evaluate performance standards and to positively build as required
A copy of the Position Description is available at Careers | The Australian Ballet
The Australian Ballet is based in Melbourne but undertakes extensive touring every year, in Australia and overseas, so applicants must be willing to spend extended time away from home.
Diversity and Inclusion
At The Australian Ballet, diversity and inclusion are integral to our mission to create an extraordinarily vibrant and successful company, and to present performances that represent Australian culture at its best. We believe that our workforce should reflect the rich diversity of the Australian community.
We embrace difference and diversity of identity, experience and thought, and we actively strive to create an inclusive workplace. By promoting these values, we aim to create a positive work experience that encourages a sense of belonging.
Open Dates: 23 May 2023 - 23 June 2023
Employment Status: Full Time
Location: Level 5, 2 Kavanagh Street, Southbank, 3006
Salary Range: $70,000 - $89,999