Title: Collaborative Pianist
Executive Area: Academic Affairs
College/School/MBU: Humanities & Fine Arts
Department: Music & Dance
Work Location: Amherst
Schedule: Full Time
Work Arrangement: Onsite
Job Summary
The University of Massachusetts Department of Music and Dance seeks a full-time Collaborative Pianist. Duties include accompanying students of classical music in lessons, rehearsals and performances for solos, chamber groups, and larger ensembles. The successful candidates will provide collaborative support for instrumental and vocal lessons, studio classes and recitals, degree and elective recitals, juries, guest masterclasses, the yearly concerto competition, and other departmental events as needed. This is a full-time, 43-week staff position supervised by the Department Chair that requires weekend and evening availability throughout the semester.
Essential Functions
Provide professional collaborative piano support for vocal and instrumental students during lessons, rehearsals, performances, studio classes, juries, recitals, masterclasses, and other instructional and performance activities.
Prepare and independently rehearse assigned repertoire to support student learning and performance readiness. Collaborate with faculty and students to facilitate musical interpretation, ensemble coordination, and successful performances.
Perform piano accompaniment for soloists, chamber ensembles, and larger ensembles for lessons, rehearsals, degree and elective recitals, the annual concerto competition, guest artist masterclasses, auditions, and other departmental events.
Provide collaborative piano support for departmental concerts, performances, and special events, including those requiring evening and weekend availability.
Maintain a broad and varied repertoire and exercise professional musical judgment to adapt to the instructional and performance needs of students, faculty, and guest artists.
Other Functions
Perform other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in music or closely related field.
Three (3) years of experience as a collaborative pianist.
Excellent sight-reading skills.
Demonstrated ability to rehearse efficiently and effectively.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Strong organizational and time management skills.
Preferred Qualifications
Master's degree in Piano Performance, Collaborative Piano, or a closely related field.
Extensive academic or professional experience as a collaborative pianist.
Broad repertoire in instrumental and vocal music.
Demonstrated enthusiasm for working with college musicians of varying skill levels.
Ability to perform advanced solo and collaborative piano repertoire.
Additional Details
This is a full-time, 43-week staff position supervised by the Department Chair that requires weekend and evening availability throughout the semester.
Working Conditions
Work is performed in a standard office or indoor university environment and involves minimal physical exertion.
Work Schedule and Work Arrangement
Monday-Friday, 9a-5p
37.5 hours per week
Some weekend and evening availability will be required.
Salary Information
Pay Grade: PSSAP Grade 26
Special Instructions for Applicants
Along with the application, please submit a resume, cover letter. Please include three (3) YouTube links showcasing your collaborative performances. References will be checked at the finalist stage. Please be prepared to provide the names and contact information for three (3) professional references.
This position will remain open for the time period required by any applicable collective bargaining agreement and will continue until a suitable candidate pool is identified. Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early.
