Performer Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Performers seeking U.S. work authorization typically qualify for O-1B visas for artists with extraordinary ability or P-1 visas for internationally recognized entertainers. Both require demonstrating sustained acclaim and differ significantly from standard employment-based visas in their evidence requirements and approval criteria. For detailed occupation requirements, see the O*NET profile.
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Gig Performer, Senior Student Assistant Specialist
College of Performing Arts
Position Availability: This position is available starting immediately and will accept applications on a rolling basis.
Join The New School
At The New School, we redefine the boundaries of education, creativity, and innovation. Founded in 1919 and located in the heart of New York City, we are home to over 9,000 students from over 100 countries, offering more than 135 degree and diploma programs across our renowned colleges, including Parsons School of Design, The New School for Social Research, Eugene Lang College of Liberal Arts, Parsons Paris, and the College of Performing Arts. Our progressive, interdisciplinary approach has earned us recognition as one of the most forward-thinking institutions in the world.
POSITION/ROLE OVERVIEW
The College of Performing Arts at The New School seeks highly motivated student musicians to serve as Gig Performer, Senior Student Assistant Specialists. We’re looking for energetic, creative, and responsible individuals to support live performance initiatives across all divisions at the College of Performing Arts. This is an ideal position for students at the College of Performing Arts who are interested in a career as a working musician.
Performance opportunities through the School of Jazz & Contemporary Music and The College of Performing Gig Office will be scheduled through the Program & Administration Manager, School of Jazz & Contemporary Music and the Part-Time Operations Manager, School of Jazz & Contemporary Music.
Performance opportunities through the Mannes School of Music will be scheduled through the Dean, Mannes School of Music; Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, Mannes School of Music; Program and Administration Manager, Mannes School of Music; and/or the Performance and Ensemble Manager.
Performance opportunities through Mannes Prep will be scheduled through the Director, Mannes Prep; and the Assistant Director, Mannes Prep.
CORE CAPABILITIES, PRIMARY DUTIES, AND RESPONSIBILITIES
School of Jazz & Contemporary Music and The College of Performing Gig Office:
- Provide instrumental and/or vocal performance services for public or private events.
- Analyze assigned music prior to rehearsal and performances (e.g., correct tempos, challenging transitions, dynamics) to ensure efficient use of rehearsal time.
- Exhibit professionalism in all interactions with internal and external parties.
- Respond to inquiries from students or staff in a timely manner regarding performance opportunities.
- Adhere to departmental guidelines regarding reporting hours, payroll deadlines, and other items.
Mannes School of Music:
- Perform for curricular and extracurricular performance opportunities as assigned, including but not limited to: Collaborative Skills courses, Techniques of Conducting courses, Mannes Outreach Events, Admitted Students Events, Staff Piano Auditions, Commencement Activities, and more.
- Exhibit professionalism in all interactions with internal and external parties.
- Prepare music as assigned by Mannes School of Music faculty, staff, and leadership, ensuring efficient use of class/rehearsal time, and success of performances.
- Adhere to departmental guidelines regarding reporting hours, payroll deadlines, and other items.
Mannes Prep:
- Attend Mannes Prep rehearsals and performances as directed.
- Learn assigned music prior to all services with Mannes Prep ensembles.
- Exhibit professionalism in all interactions with students, faculty, staff, and audience members.
- Respond to inquiries from the Mannes Prep office in a timely manner regarding rehearsal and performance schedules.
- Adhere to departmental guidelines regarding reporting hours, payroll deadlines, and other items.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Enrolled in a degree program at the College of Performing Arts.
- Ability to provide evidence of advanced musicianship.
WORK MODE
This position is primarily in-person and is based on campus to support effective in-person collaboration and engagement. Performances may occur in offsite venues. #LI-DNI
HOURLY RATE
$20.00 - $100.00, variable depending on the gig.
Hours per Week: Scheduled on an as-needed basis, variable commitment with no guaranteed hours. Not to exceed 20 hours in a single workweek.
We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, creed, religion or belief, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, marital or domestic partnership status, sexual orientation, sex, gender identity or expression, age, disability, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. The New School recognizes and values the benefits of a diverse workforce.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS TO APPLICANTS
Applicants should submit a resume outlining their interest, skills, and experience pertaining to this position. Applicants will be contacted if the need for their services arises.
Responsibilities:
Provide instrumental and/or vocal performance services for events, preparing assigned music in advance to ensure productive rehearsals and high-quality performances. Maintain professionalism in all interactions, respond promptly to inquiries, and comply with departmental policies and administrative requirements.
We look forward to receiving your application!
POSITION TITLE
Gig Performer, Senior Student Assistant Specialist
College of Performing Arts
Position Availability: This position is available starting immediately and will accept applications on a rolling basis.
Join The New School
At The New School, we redefine the boundaries of education, creativity, and innovation. Founded in 1919 and located in the heart of New York City, we are home to over 9,000 students from over 100 countries, offering more than 135 degree and diploma programs across our renowned colleges, including Parsons School of Design, The New School for Social Research, Eugene Lang College of Liberal Arts, Parsons Paris, and the College of Performing Arts. Our progressive, interdisciplinary approach has earned us recognition as one of the most forward-thinking institutions in the world.
POSITION/ROLE OVERVIEW
The College of Performing Arts at The New School seeks highly motivated student musicians to serve as Gig Performer, Senior Student Assistant Specialists. We’re looking for energetic, creative, and responsible individuals to support live performance initiatives across all divisions at the College of Performing Arts. This is an ideal position for students at the College of Performing Arts who are interested in a career as a working musician.
Performance opportunities through the School of Jazz & Contemporary Music and The College of Performing Gig Office will be scheduled through the Program & Administration Manager, School of Jazz & Contemporary Music and the Part-Time Operations Manager, School of Jazz & Contemporary Music.
Performance opportunities through the Mannes School of Music will be scheduled through the Dean, Mannes School of Music; Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, Mannes School of Music; Program and Administration Manager, Mannes School of Music; and/or the Performance and Ensemble Manager.
Performance opportunities through Mannes Prep will be scheduled through the Director, Mannes Prep; and the Assistant Director, Mannes Prep.
CORE CAPABILITIES, PRIMARY DUTIES, AND RESPONSIBILITIES
School of Jazz & Contemporary Music and The College of Performing Gig Office:
- Provide instrumental and/or vocal performance services for public or private events.
- Analyze assigned music prior to rehearsal and performances (e.g., correct tempos, challenging transitions, dynamics) to ensure efficient use of rehearsal time.
- Exhibit professionalism in all interactions with internal and external parties.
- Respond to inquiries from students or staff in a timely manner regarding performance opportunities.
- Adhere to departmental guidelines regarding reporting hours, payroll deadlines, and other items.
Mannes School of Music:
- Perform for curricular and extracurricular performance opportunities as assigned, including but not limited to: Collaborative Skills courses, Techniques of Conducting courses, Mannes Outreach Events, Admitted Students Events, Staff Piano Auditions, Commencement Activities, and more.
- Exhibit professionalism in all interactions with internal and external parties.
- Prepare music as assigned by Mannes School of Music faculty, staff, and leadership, ensuring efficient use of class/rehearsal time, and success of performances.
- Adhere to departmental guidelines regarding reporting hours, payroll deadlines, and other items.
Mannes Prep:
- Attend Mannes Prep rehearsals and performances as directed.
- Learn assigned music prior to all services with Mannes Prep ensembles.
- Exhibit professionalism in all interactions with students, faculty, staff, and audience members.
- Respond to inquiries from the Mannes Prep office in a timely manner regarding rehearsal and performance schedules.
- Adhere to departmental guidelines regarding reporting hours, payroll deadlines, and other items.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Enrolled in a degree program at the College of Performing Arts.
- Ability to provide evidence of advanced musicianship.
WORK MODE
This position is primarily in-person and is based on campus to support effective in-person collaboration and engagement. Performances may occur in offsite venues. #LI-DNI
HOURLY RATE
$20.00 - $100.00, variable depending on the gig.
Hours per Week: Scheduled on an as-needed basis, variable commitment with no guaranteed hours. Not to exceed 20 hours in a single workweek.
We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, creed, religion or belief, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, marital or domestic partnership status, sexual orientation, sex, gender identity or expression, age, disability, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. The New School recognizes and values the benefits of a diverse workforce.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS TO APPLICANTS
Applicants should submit a resume outlining their interest, skills, and experience pertaining to this position. Applicants will be contacted if the need for their services arises.
Responsibilities:
Provide instrumental and/or vocal performance services for events, preparing assigned music in advance to ensure productive rehearsals and high-quality performances. Maintain professionalism in all interactions, respond promptly to inquiries, and comply with departmental policies and administrative requirements.
We look forward to receiving your application!
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Performer Jobs
Document your recognition early
Collect press coverage, awards, reviews, and industry recognition throughout your career. O-1B and P-1 visas require extensive documentation of your extraordinary ability or international recognition.
Understand the petition timeline
Visa petitions can take 3-6 months without premium processing. Plan filing dates around performance schedules, as you cannot work until the petition is approved.
Focus on specialized venues and companies
Target theaters, production companies, and entertainment venues experienced with artist visas. They understand the unique requirements and documentation needed for performer petitions.
Consider P-1 for group performances
If you're part of an internationally recognized group or troupe, P-1 may be more accessible than individual O-1B. Groups can petition collectively.
Prepare for detailed evidence requirements
Beyond press coverage, gather contracts, box office receipts, critical reviews, and letters from industry experts. The evidentiary standard is higher than typical work visas.
Know the distinction between O-1A and O-1B
O-1A covers sciences, business, and athletics while O-1B covers arts and entertainment. Ensure you're applying for the correct category based on your performance type.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do performers need a specific degree for visa sponsorship?
No specific degree is required for O-1B or P-1 visas. These visas focus on demonstrated extraordinary ability and sustained acclaim rather than formal education. However, formal training from recognized institutions can strengthen your petition as supporting evidence of your expertise.
What's the difference between O-1B and P-1 visas for performers?
O-1B is for individual performers with extraordinary ability in arts or entertainment, requiring sustained national or international acclaim. P-1 is for internationally recognized entertainment groups or individual athletes. P-1 has a lower standard than O-1B but requires group recognition or athletic achievement.
Can performers work for multiple venues on the same visa?
Yes, but each employer must be listed on the initial petition or file an amended petition. O-1B allows concurrent employment with multiple petitioners. You cannot work for unlisted employers without prior USCIS approval, even for brief performances or guest appearances.
How to find Performer jobs with visa sponsorship?
To find Performer jobs with visa sponsorship, use Migrate Mate, which specializes in connecting international talent with sponsoring employers. Focus on entertainment companies, cruise lines, theme parks, theaters, and production studios that commonly sponsor H-1B visa, O-1 visa (artist visas), or P-1 (athlete/entertainer) visas. These employers often have established sponsorship programs for international performers with specialized skills.
What approval rates do performer visa categories have?
O-1B petitions have approximately 85-90% approval rates when properly documented. P-1 approval rates are similar but vary by petition type. Most denials result from insufficient evidence of extraordinary ability or international recognition rather than regulatory issues.
Can performers transition from visitor status to work authorization?
You cannot change from B-1 visa/B-2 visa visitor status to O-1B or P-1 while in the U.S. You must file the petition while abroad and obtain the visa stamp before beginning work. This applies even to emergency bookings or last-minute performance opportunities.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored Performer jobs?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.