Pianist Jobs for OPT Students
Pianist jobs on OPT are available across concert halls, music schools, hotels, cruise lines, and recording studios. Your OPT work authorization lets you work for any employer, but roles must align with your music degree field. STEM OPT extension does not apply to music programs, so you have 12 months to secure sponsorship.
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Georgia Southern University is the state's largest and most comprehensive center of higher education south of Atlanta. With nearly 150 degree programs at the bachelor's, master's and doctoral levels, Georgia Southern has been designated a Carnegie Doctoral/R2 "high research" university and serves more than 29,500 students from all 50 states, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico as well as 106 nations.
With three vibrant campuses - the Statesboro Campus, the Armstrong Campus in Savannah and the Liberty Campus in Hinesville - Georgia Southern offers a dynamic environment which encourages learning, discovery and personal growth. The University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and has earned special accreditation from professional and academic associations that set standards in their fields.
Georgia Southern is an influencer and intellectual catalyst in southeast Georgia, a rapidly expanding region that is home to international companies such as Hyundai, Gulfstream and JCB, as well as the Port of Savannah and Georgia Ports Authority. With a focus on hands-on learning, Georgia Southern is supporting the demand for highly skilled workers by providing academic excellence and creative innovation in a supportive student-centered environment that empowers the next generation of leaders to succeed.
Beyond an ideal location, there is a place for you to work in an exciting environment abounding with opportunities for personal and professional growth. Named one of the Best U.S. Colleges by The Wall Street Journal, Georgia Southern is nationally ranked for the caliber of its programs and services. Georgia Southern University has been recognized by Forbes as one of "America's Best-In-State Employers" for 2025.
Location
With more than 29,500 students and 150 degree programs, Georgia Southern University is the largest comprehensive university south of Atlanta. Our hands-on, practical approach to learning, and faculty dedicated to teaching, ensure you are prepared for your career and life after graduation.
Statesboro Campus
1332 Southern Drive
Statesboro, GA 30458
Department Information
Within this setting, The Fred and Dinah Gretsch School of Music offers student-centered degree programs at the bachelor’s and master’s level. Our mission is to provide opportunities for studying and making music within the context of a liberal arts education; to prepare students for careers in music-related fields; to enhance the cultural life of the campuses and surrounding region; and to contribute to the preservation and expansion of our rich musical tradition through performance, composition, education, research, and music industry. Students are mentored by a faculty of dedicated teacher-scholars, who are nationally and internationally known in their fields of expertise.
Job Summary
Reporting to the chair of the Gretsch School of Music, the Lecturer and Coordinator of Collaborative Piano will:
- Teach Accompanying course for undergraduate piano majors.
- Oversee collaborative piano needs in the Gretsch School of Music. Collaborate with guest artists, faculty, and both vocal and instrumental students in performances.
- Recruit, hire, evaluate, and manage a team of pianists to meet all needs within the Gretsch School of Music.
- Manage the budget for pianists and collaborate with chair to ensure costs are managed appropriately.
- Accompany auditions, NATS events, and required assessments.
- Serve as collaborative pianist for Georgia Southern Chorale when needed.
- Serve as a member of the Keyboard Area committee, Vocal Arts Committee and other committees as assigned.
The position is an academic (10 month) non-tenure track appointment.
Required Qualifications
- Earned masters degree in collaborative piano, or a closely related field, by August 1, 2026 with at least 18 hours of piano/music coursework.
- Extensive experience collaborating with vocalists.
- Willingness to engage with institutional student success initiatives.
- Commitment to engaging with best practice initiatives in instruction and pedagogy, mentoring, and curriculum design and development.
Preferred Qualifications
- Doctoral degree in collaborative piano
- Extensive experience collaborating with instrumentalists
- Language fluency and experience coaching languages with singers
Proposed Salary
Commensurate with experience.
This is an exempt position paid on a monthly basis.
Required Documents to Attach
- A complete application consists of a letter addressing the qualifications cited above
- A curriculum vitae
- A document with links to two coaching videos of at least fifteen minutes each demonstrating work with two students (videos may be edited for length), and links to videos of at least three performances with the candidate as collaborative pianist;
- The names, addresses, telephone numbers, and email addresses of at least three professional references.
- Other documentation may be requested.
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities
ABILITIES
Consistently exhibit engaging customer service
Ability to support various constituencies served by the University
Proven proficiency with computers including Microsoft Office, Google, and/or applications as required for specific position
KNOWLEDGE
Adhere to University policies and procedures to meet Institutional goals and support University's mission for student success
SKILLS
Effective communication (verbal and written), organizational and human relations skills
Apply Before Date
Open Until Filled
Screening of applications begins April 21, 2026 and continues until the position is filled. Preferred start date is August 1, 2026.
Contact Information
Allen Henderson, Search Chair
ahenderson@georgiasouthern.edu
912-478-0144
USG Core Values
The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct.
Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653.
Conditions of Employment
All work (with limited exceptions such as research and study abroad outside activities such as grading and email correspondence) for Georgia Southern University must be completed while the employee is physically present in the state of Georgia, unless specifically authorized by the university for a specific purpose and limited period of time within current policy.
Faculty are expected to contribute to the vibrant university community by engaging students, participating in events, and performing other responsibilities on-campus.
Faculty may be required to teach, conduct research, or perform service duties on any of the three campuses. Georgia Southern provides accessible transportation options between campuses.
Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of background investigation including a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with Georgia Southern University, as determined by Georgia Southern University in its sole discretion, confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. Applicants may be subject to a pre-employment drug test.
Offers are made expressly subject to the applicable federal and state laws, to the statutes, rules and regulations of this institution and to the Bylaws and Policies of the Board of Regents (BOR) of the University System of Georgia (USG), which are available for your inspection upon request.
Georgia Southern University is a Tobacco and Smoke-Free Community.
Equal Employment Opportunity
More information about the institution is available through http://www.georgiasouthern.edu or https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/colleges/arts-humanities/departments/music. The names of applicants and nominees, vitae, and other non-evaluative information may be subject to public inspection under the Georgia Open Records Act. Georgia Southern University provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, religion, age, veteran status, political affiliation, or disability. Individuals in need of reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act to participate in the search process should notify Human Resources: (912) 478-6947.
Other Information
This position will not be required to drive.
This role is not considered a position of trust.
Background Check
Standard + Education
About us
Georgia Southern University is the state's largest and most comprehensive center of higher education south of Atlanta. With nearly 150 degree programs at the bachelor's, master's and doctoral levels, Georgia Southern has been designated a Carnegie Doctoral/R2 "high research" university and serves more than 29,500 students from all 50 states, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico as well as 106 nations.
With three vibrant campuses - the Statesboro Campus, the Armstrong Campus in Savannah and the Liberty Campus in Hinesville - Georgia Southern offers a dynamic environment which encourages learning, discovery and personal growth. The University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and has earned special accreditation from professional and academic associations that set standards in their fields.
Georgia Southern is an influencer and intellectual catalyst in southeast Georgia, a rapidly expanding region that is home to international companies such as Hyundai, Gulfstream and JCB, as well as the Port of Savannah and Georgia Ports Authority. With a focus on hands-on learning, Georgia Southern is supporting the demand for highly skilled workers by providing academic excellence and creative innovation in a supportive student-centered environment that empowers the next generation of leaders to succeed.
Beyond an ideal location, there is a place for you to work in an exciting environment abounding with opportunities for personal and professional growth. Named one of the Best U.S. Colleges by The Wall Street Journal, Georgia Southern is nationally ranked for the caliber of its programs and services. Georgia Southern University has been recognized by Forbes as one of "America's Best-In-State Employers" for 2025.
Location
With more than 29,500 students and 150 degree programs, Georgia Southern University is the largest comprehensive university south of Atlanta. Our hands-on, practical approach to learning, and faculty dedicated to teaching, ensure you are prepared for your career and life after graduation.
Statesboro Campus
1332 Southern Drive
Statesboro, GA 30458
Department Information
Within this setting, The Fred and Dinah Gretsch School of Music offers student-centered degree programs at the bachelor’s and master’s level. Our mission is to provide opportunities for studying and making music within the context of a liberal arts education; to prepare students for careers in music-related fields; to enhance the cultural life of the campuses and surrounding region; and to contribute to the preservation and expansion of our rich musical tradition through performance, composition, education, research, and music industry. Students are mentored by a faculty of dedicated teacher-scholars, who are nationally and internationally known in their fields of expertise.
Job Summary
Reporting to the chair of the Gretsch School of Music, the Lecturer and Coordinator of Collaborative Piano will:
- Teach Accompanying course for undergraduate piano majors.
- Oversee collaborative piano needs in the Gretsch School of Music. Collaborate with guest artists, faculty, and both vocal and instrumental students in performances.
- Recruit, hire, evaluate, and manage a team of pianists to meet all needs within the Gretsch School of Music.
- Manage the budget for pianists and collaborate with chair to ensure costs are managed appropriately.
- Accompany auditions, NATS events, and required assessments.
- Serve as collaborative pianist for Georgia Southern Chorale when needed.
- Serve as a member of the Keyboard Area committee, Vocal Arts Committee and other committees as assigned.
The position is an academic (10 month) non-tenure track appointment.
Required Qualifications
- Earned masters degree in collaborative piano, or a closely related field, by August 1, 2026 with at least 18 hours of piano/music coursework.
- Extensive experience collaborating with vocalists.
- Willingness to engage with institutional student success initiatives.
- Commitment to engaging with best practice initiatives in instruction and pedagogy, mentoring, and curriculum design and development.
Preferred Qualifications
- Doctoral degree in collaborative piano
- Extensive experience collaborating with instrumentalists
- Language fluency and experience coaching languages with singers
Proposed Salary
Commensurate with experience.
This is an exempt position paid on a monthly basis.
Required Documents to Attach
- A complete application consists of a letter addressing the qualifications cited above
- A curriculum vitae
- A document with links to two coaching videos of at least fifteen minutes each demonstrating work with two students (videos may be edited for length), and links to videos of at least three performances with the candidate as collaborative pianist;
- The names, addresses, telephone numbers, and email addresses of at least three professional references.
- Other documentation may be requested.
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities
ABILITIES
Consistently exhibit engaging customer service
Ability to support various constituencies served by the University
Proven proficiency with computers including Microsoft Office, Google, and/or applications as required for specific position
KNOWLEDGE
Adhere to University policies and procedures to meet Institutional goals and support University's mission for student success
SKILLS
Effective communication (verbal and written), organizational and human relations skills
Apply Before Date
Open Until Filled
Screening of applications begins April 21, 2026 and continues until the position is filled. Preferred start date is August 1, 2026.
Contact Information
Allen Henderson, Search Chair
ahenderson@georgiasouthern.edu
912-478-0144
USG Core Values
The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct.
Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653.
Conditions of Employment
All work (with limited exceptions such as research and study abroad outside activities such as grading and email correspondence) for Georgia Southern University must be completed while the employee is physically present in the state of Georgia, unless specifically authorized by the university for a specific purpose and limited period of time within current policy.
Faculty are expected to contribute to the vibrant university community by engaging students, participating in events, and performing other responsibilities on-campus.
Faculty may be required to teach, conduct research, or perform service duties on any of the three campuses. Georgia Southern provides accessible transportation options between campuses.
Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of background investigation including a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with Georgia Southern University, as determined by Georgia Southern University in its sole discretion, confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. Applicants may be subject to a pre-employment drug test.
Offers are made expressly subject to the applicable federal and state laws, to the statutes, rules and regulations of this institution and to the Bylaws and Policies of the Board of Regents (BOR) of the University System of Georgia (USG), which are available for your inspection upon request.
Georgia Southern University is a Tobacco and Smoke-Free Community.
Equal Employment Opportunity
More information about the institution is available through http://www.georgiasouthern.edu or https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/colleges/arts-humanities/departments/music. The names of applicants and nominees, vitae, and other non-evaluative information may be subject to public inspection under the Georgia Open Records Act. Georgia Southern University provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, religion, age, veteran status, political affiliation, or disability. Individuals in need of reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act to participate in the search process should notify Human Resources: (912) 478-6947.
Other Information
This position will not be required to drive.
This role is not considered a position of trust.
Background Check
Standard + Education
How to Get Visa Sponsorship in Pianist
Target employers with a history of visa sponsorship
Orchestras, conservatories, and large hospitality groups have sponsored visas before and understand the process. Search Migrate Mate to filter for employers actively hiring OPT candidates in music and performing arts roles.
Frame your degree as directly relevant to the role
OPT requires your job to relate to your field of study. A music performance or piano degree maps directly to pianist positions. Emphasize this connection explicitly in every application to avoid employer confusion about eligibility.
Consider O-1B as a sponsorship alternative
The O-1B visa is specifically designed for artists with extraordinary ability. Competition wins, prominent engagements, critical reviews, and high-profile performances all build a credible O-1B case. It's often more accessible than H-1B for performing artists.
Document every performance credit and engagement
For future visa petitions, evidence matters. Keep records of programs, contracts, reviews, and audience size for every engagement. A well-documented performance history strengthens both H-1B specialty occupation arguments and O-1B extraordinary ability claims.
Explore academic and institutional employer types
Universities and conservatories can file H-1B petitions year-round as cap-exempt employers, bypassing the annual lottery entirely. Staff pianist, accompanist, and instructor roles at accredited institutions offer a more reliable sponsorship path than private sector positions.
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Get Access To All JobsFrequently Asked Questions
Can I work as a pianist on OPT?
Yes, as long as the role is directly related to your field of study. If you hold a degree in music performance, piano performance, or a closely related discipline, pianist positions qualify for OPT. Freelance and contract gigs can also count, but you must track your hours carefully since OPT requires at least 20 hours of work per week to maintain valid status.
Does the STEM OPT extension apply to music degrees?
No. STEM OPT extension is only available to graduates of designated STEM programs. Music, music performance, and related arts degrees are not on the STEM designated degree program list, so pianist OPT students are limited to 12 months of post-completion OPT. This makes it critical to begin sponsorship conversations with your employer well before your OPT expires.
What visa can an employer sponsor for a pianist after OPT?
The two most common paths are H-1B and O-1B. H-1B requires the role to qualify as a specialty occupation, which is arguable for pianists in formal institutional settings like universities or orchestras. O-1B is designed specifically for artists with extraordinary ability and is often a stronger fit for performing musicians with documented recognition, awards, or notable engagements.
Can I work as a freelance pianist on OPT?
Yes, self-employment is permitted on OPT, but it comes with conditions. You must be actively working in your field of study for at least 20 hours per week, and you should maintain clear documentation of your engagements, contracts, and income. Sporadic or casual gigging may not satisfy the active employment requirement. If you're exploring pianist opportunities on OPT, Migrate Mate lists roles from employers familiar with OPT hiring.
How do I find pianist employers willing to sponsor a visa?
Sponsorship-willing employers in music tend to be institutions rather than individuals: universities, conservatories, professional orchestras, opera companies, and large hospitality groups with formal HR processes. These employers have legal infrastructure in place and prior experience with immigration filings. Searching Migrate Mate lets you identify pianist roles from employers who have already indicated openness to sponsoring OPT and visa candidates.
See which Pianist employers are hiring and sponsoring visas right now.
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