Broadway Musical Keyboardist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the vibrant world of live theater, the importance of a Broadway musical keyboardist has never been more critical.

As the world of performing arts evolves, the demand for skilled musicians who can weave, enhance, and protect the musical narrative becomes paramount.

But let’s take a closer look: What’s really expected of a Broadway musical keyboardist?

Whether you are:

• An aspiring musician trying to understand the responsibilities of this role,
• A casting director looking to define the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the behind-the-scenes world of Broadway musicals,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Broadway musical keyboardist job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or theater career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Broadway Musical Keyboardist Duties and Responsibilities

Broadway Musical Keyboardists play a critical role in creating and maintaining the musical atmosphere of a Broadway production.

They perform live during shows, rehearse with the cast, and may also be involved in the musical arrangement of the production.

Broadway Musical Keyboardists have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Interpret and perform musical pieces as per the director’s instructions
• Rehearse with the ensemble cast to ensure synchronization and smooth performance
• Collaborate with other musicians, including instrumentalists and vocalists
• Practice and perfect new scores for each performance
• May be required to improvise or adapt performance in real-time during live shows
• Assist with the arrangement and orchestration of musical pieces
• Maintain and tune their instrument to ensure top-quality sound during performances
• Read and interpret complex musical notation and symbols
• Follow cues from a conductor or director during performances

 

Broadway Musical Keyboardist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a talented Broadway Musical Keyboardist to join our dynamic team.

The Keyboardist will be responsible for accompanying singers and actors during live performances and rehearsals.

They will also play a key role in interpreting and performing music scores.

The ideal candidate should have a deep understanding of music theory, excellent sight-reading skills, and an ability to work well with a team.

They should also be able to learn new pieces quickly, follow a conductor’s lead, and adjust their performance style to fit the needs of the production.

 

Responsibilities

• Accompany singers and actors during live performances and rehearsals
• Interpret and perform music scores as written by the musical director
• Attend all required rehearsals and performances
• Collaborate with other musicians and production staff to create a cohesive performance
• Learn new pieces quickly and accurately
• Follow the conductor’s lead and adjust performance style to fit the needs of the production
• Maintain the instrument and ensure it is tuned before each performance
• Provide feedback and suggestions to enhance musical performance

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a professional keyboardist, preferably in the theater industry
• Excellent sight-reading skills
• Ability to interpret and perform a wide variety of music styles
• Strong knowledge of music theory
• High level of proficiency with keyboard instruments
• Ability to learn new pieces quickly and accurately
• Excellent teamwork skills, with the ability to collaborate with other musicians and production staff
• Flexible schedule to accommodate rehearsals and performances
• Formal training in music or a related field is preferred

 

Benefits

• Competitive compensation
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Opportunities for career development and advancement

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Broadway Musical Keyboardist
• Work Environment: Rehearsal studios and theater venues. Evening and weekend work is often required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Musical Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Broadway Musical Keyboardist Do?

A Broadway Musical Keyboardist primarily works in the theatre industry, specifically in musical theatre productions on Broadway.

Their main responsibility is to provide live music accompaniment for the actors and singers on stage.

This involves playing the keyboard or piano as part of an orchestra or band during rehearsals and live performances.

They are required to read and interpret complex sheet music, and often play a key role in setting the tone and mood of various scenes in the production.

Their musical cues can either be predetermined by the show’s musical director or improvised based on the progression of the performance.

In addition to live performances, Broadway Musical Keyboardists may also be involved in the recording of soundtracks for the musicals they work on.

They often work closely with other musicians, as well as the show’s director, musical director, singers, and actors, to ensure a harmonious and seamless integration of the musical elements into the overall production.

The role of a Broadway Musical Keyboardist is highly demanding, requiring exceptional musical talent, sight-reading skills, adaptability, and the ability to work under pressure.

They may also need to learn new music quickly as Broadway shows often have changing repertoires.

 

Broadway Musical Keyboardist Qualifications and Skills

A Broadway Musical Keyboardist should possess a unique set of skills and qualifications that align with the requirements of this specialized role, such as:

• Exceptional musical skills, specifically in playing the keyboard, to deliver flawless performances every time.
• Knowledge of different musical styles and genres to adapt to various Broadway musical themes and requirements.
• Strong sight-reading skills to quickly learn and execute new musical pieces.
• Ability to collaborate and coordinate with other musicians, conductors, and cast members using effective interpersonal skills.
• Communication skills to understand the musical director’s instructions, provide feedback, and articulate musical ideas.
• Persistence and discipline to participate in rigorous rehearsal schedules and maintain consistent performance quality.
• A deep understanding of musical theory to comprehend complex musical compositions.
• Improvisation skills to adapt to live performance dynamics and any unexpected changes during a show.
• Physical endurance to perform for long durations, often multiple shows in a day.

 

Broadway Musical Keyboardist Experience Requirements

Broadway Musical Keyboardists typically have a substantial amount of theoretical knowledge and practical experience.

Many attend a music school or conservatory, where they study music theory and develop their keyboard skills.

They often major in music with a focus on piano or keyboard instruments.

Practical experience is crucial for Broadway Musical Keyboardists.

They usually gain experience through performances in various settings such as university or community concerts, church services, local theater productions, or as part of a band.

Entry-level Broadway Musical Keyboardists may have 1 to 2 years of professional playing experience.

They may have worked in smaller theater productions, as a session musician, or in a touring band.

Keyboardists with more than 3 years of experience often have honed their sight-reading skills, and have experience performing different genres of music, including classical, jazz, and popular music.

They may also have experience performing in larger theater productions.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are often proficient in playing a variety of keyboard instruments, such as synthesizers and organs, in addition to the piano.

They may also have experience as a musical director or conductor, and have a deep understanding of musical arrangement and composition.

This makes them suitable for lead keyboardist roles in Broadway productions.

All Broadway Musical Keyboardists should have experience working with a team, as they will often perform as part of an orchestra or band.

They should also be comfortable performing in front of large audiences and under pressure.

 

Broadway Musical Keyboardist Education and Training Requirements

To become a Broadway Musical Keyboardist, a bachelor’s degree in music, performance, or a related field is typically required.

Most institutions offering these degrees provide comprehensive training in music theory, composition, and performance, which is vital for a Broadway keyboardist.

Additionally, specific courses in keyboard or piano are usually included in these programs.

Beyond formal education, extensive practical experience is a must.

Many keyboardists gain this experience through school orchestras, church choirs, local bands, or other community musical groups.

Familiarity with a wide range of musical styles, including classical, jazz, pop, and of course, musical theatre, is essential.

Some Broadway productions may also require keyboardists to be proficient in playing other keyboard instruments such as the organ or synthesizer.

In addition to a degree and practical experience, excellent sight-reading skills are a must for Broadway keyboardists.

This is because they often need to play new scores with minimal rehearsal time.

While not a requirement, some keyboardists pursue advanced degrees or certifications in music or related fields to improve their skills and increase their marketability.

Some also take classes in acting and dance to gain a better understanding of the Broadway production process and enhance their stage presence.

Finally, a Broadway Musical Keyboardist should have strong collaborative skills, as they will be working closely with the director, musical director, other musicians, and cast members.

 

Broadway Musical Keyboardist Salary Expectations

The average salary for a Broadway Musical Keyboardist is approximately $70,000 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings can vary greatly based on factors such as the popularity of the show, the keyboardist’s experience and expertise, and the location of the performance.

High-profile Broadway productions may pay considerably more.

 

Broadway Musical Keyboardist Job Description FAQs

What are the key skills required by a Broadway Musical Keyboardist?

Broadway Musical Keyboardists must have excellent musical ability, including a good ear for pitch, rhythm, and harmony.

This role requires proficiency in reading sheet music, the ability to improvise, and knowledge of different music genres.

They should also possess strong collaboration skills as they will be working closely with directors, conductors, and other musicians.

 

Do Broadway Musical Keyboardists need a degree?

A degree in music or a related field can be beneficial, but it is not always required.

What is crucial is proven talent and competence in keyboard or piano playing, ideally demonstrated through performances, recordings, or auditions.

Some Broadway Keyboardists may have attended conservatories or music schools to refine their abilities.

 

What should you look for in a Broadway Musical Keyboardist resume?

Look for a resume that demonstrates extensive experience in live performance, preferably in theater or musical settings.

Formal music education, such as a degree or certificate, can be an added advantage.

Additionally, any experience in collaborative settings, improvisation, and sight-reading skills should be highlighted.

 

What qualities make a good Broadway Musical Keyboardist?

A good Broadway Musical Keyboardist is highly adaptable, able to adjust quickly to changes in tempo, key, or style as required by the performance.

They should be dedicated to their craft, continuously improving their skills and staying updated with new musical techniques and trends.

The ability to work under pressure and maintain composure during live performances is also essential.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Broadway Musical Keyboardist?

Hiring a Broadway Musical Keyboardist can be challenging due to the specific skill set required for this role.

The candidate must not only be a skilled keyboardist but also understand the dynamics of a live theater performance.

The hiring process often involves auditions or live performance tests to gauge the candidate’s abilities accurately.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve drawn back the curtain on what it truly means to be a Broadway musical keyboardist.

And guess what?

It’s not just about playing the notes.

It’s about creating the musical magic that breathes life into every Broadway performance, one note at a time.

With our comprehensive Broadway musical keyboardist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the stage.

But why stop there?

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your next stage call for creating precision-crafted job listings or fine-tuning your resume to hit the right notes.

Remember:

Every note you play is part of the bigger musical masterpiece.

Let’s create that magic. Together.

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