"Piano Accompanist"

JOB SUMMARY

The Choir Accompanist provides high-quality musical accompaniment for both Concert Choir and Cardinal Singers during rehearsals and performances. Concert Choir rehearses Mondays and Wednesdays from 4-5:50pm. Cardinal Singers rehearses Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2:00-3:50pm. Dress rehearsals, sectionals and concerts will be scheduled as determined. In addition, the choir accompanist will be asked to lead sectional rehearsals as determined by the conductor. The approximate commitment per week is 8-10 hours.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Accompany students in rehearsals and performances.
• Collaborate closely with faculty to support curriculum and performance goals.
• Attend and prepare for scheduled rehearsals and performances.
• Adapt playing to varying skill levels and musical styles.
• Maintain steady tempo, balance, and musical sensitivity appropriate to each selection.
• Prepare assigned repertoire in advance, often with limited rehearsal time.
• Sight-read music accurately and efficiently.
• Demonstrate reliability, punctuality, and professional conduct.
• Communicate effectively with faculty and staff regarding scheduling and repertoire.
• Support students in developing musicality, rhythm, and performance confidence.
• Participate in departmental meetings or events when requested.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

General supervision is received from the Dean of Arts and Behavioral Sciences

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

N/A

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Music or related field
• Advanced piano skills with strong sight-reading ability
• Experience accompanying choirs of various levels
• Experience and ability to positively interact with all members of the campus community
• Ability to perform the essential duties of the position with or without accommodations.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Master’s or Doctoral degree in Piano Performance, Collaborative Piano, or related field.
• Previous experience in an academic setting.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Duties are generally performed inside and not exposed to adverse conditions.
• All work associated with this role must be performed within the state of Michigan.
• Evening and weekend hours may be required.
• Work involves extended periods of sitting and playing piano.
• Performance and rehearsal settings vary by assignment.

The above reflects the general details considered necessary to describe the essential functions of the job. It shall not be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or requirements that may be inherent in the job. It is not intended to limit or in any way modify the right of any supervisor to assign, direct, and control the work of employees under his/her supervision. The use of a particular expression or illustration describing duties shall not be held to exclude other duties not mentioned that are of similar kind or level of difficulty.