Session Musician (Jazz, Big Band, Popular Music Styles)

Berklee College of Music•Boston, MA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Professional Writing and Music Technology Division is seeking musicians to join our Session Musician program that offers a unique opportunity for you to gain hands-on experience working with faculty and fellow musicians in a real-world recording studio environment. This role is a direct pathway to a career as a professional session musician, providing invaluable experience that you can't get in a classroom alone. You will sharpen the critical skills that define a working pro, flawless reading, stylistic versatility, and studio etiquette, while building a network of musicians, composers, producers, and engineers. This is your chance to build your reputation and become a go-to player within the Berklee community. This posting is for players with a contemporary popular style (jazz, rhythm, or popular music styles) skillset. Big band, jazz combo, rhythm/bass, and instruments and playing techniques will be required, as well as the ability to read a lead sheet, improvise over chord changes, and play with a group without a conductor.

Requirements

Current student at Berklee College of Music or Boston Conservatory at Berklee.
Enrolled at least half-time in a degree, diploma, or certificate-seeking undergraduate or graduate program. Summer is the only semester in which a student can maintain employment without being enrolled. In this case, the student must be pre-registered for the upcoming fall semester. This exception does not apply to fall or spring semesters.
Have a valid United States Social Security Number (SSN).
Remain in “valid” Visa status as applicable.
A minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA. Students in their first semester can work, even though they do not have an official GPA until the completion of their first semester.
Federal Work Study student may apply.
In good disciplinary standing.
Must be located in the U.S.
Eligible to work in the US and possess a social security number.
Excellent sight-reading skills are essential.
Strong organizational and time management skills.
Willingness to work evening hours (typically 5:30pm-12am, depending on instrument).
Good communication skills and a collaborative spirit.
All applicants must attend an audition.
Must not be an RA (unless pre-approved by your supervisor).

Nice To Haves

Advanced level skills and prior recording experience.

Responsibilities

Collaborate with faculty and students on recording sessions, delivering high-quality performances.
Demonstrate excellent sight-reading and improvisational skills, adapting to various contemporary musical styles (Jazz, Big Band, Popular Music).
Maintain a professional demeanor and adhere to studio etiquette, ensuring smooth and efficient sessions.
Manage your time effectively, arriving prepared and logging hours accurately.
Bring necessary instruments and materials as requested, and be prepared to switch between instruments if applicable.