About the Program

Janet Newkirk (1952-2024) was a passionate student of the piano, along with many other pursuits. Her devotion to the piano was superseded perhaps only by her interest in supporting the artists who crossed the path of her and her husband David, a Charlottesville Opera board member. Janet and David hosted countless artists for a variety of performance-based organizations in town over the years and formed lasting friendships with them. It is in Janet’s honor, and in the interest of promoting the future of collaborative pianists in opera, that this position is established within the Ader Emerging Artist Program at Charlottesville Opera.

Charlottesville Opera Announces Largest One Time Gift from an Individual to Establish the Janet Newkirk Collaborative Pianist Position.
At Charlottesville Opera's Royal Ball in October, 2025, long time board member and opera supporter, David Newkirk, announced a gift to create the Janet Newkirk Collaborative Pianist position as part of the Ader Emerging Artist Program. This gift will support an emerging artist pianist.

Read more about David and Janet

The Janet Newkirk Collaborative Pianist

The Janet Newkirk Collaborative Pianist position at Charlottesville Opera is designed for emerging pianists seeking a professional career in collaborative piano for opera and musical theater. This immersive program provides advanced training, mentorship, and real-world performance experience within a professional company setting.
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Applicants must be at least 21 years of age and hold an undergraduate degree in piano studies or a closely related discipline. Ideal candidates are pianists who demonstrate strong musical preparation, excellent ensemble skills, and a clear interest in pursuing a career as a collaborative pianist in opera and/or musical theater.

One participant will be selected for the Summer 2026 season and will receive individualized mentorship from three expert coaches and work closely with members of the vocalists in the Ader Emerging Artist Program. The position emphasizes collaboration, stylistic fluency, rehearsal techniques, and professional expectations, while offering multiple performance and rehearsal opportunities throughout the season. The participant will gain hands-on experience supporting singers, conductors, and directors in both rehearsal and performance environments.
The Janet Newkirk Collaborative Pianist position offers an exceptional opportunity for early-career collaborative pianists to refine their craft, expand their professional network, and prepare for a successful career in the field.

Compensation
Participants receive a stipend ranging from $4,000 to $5,000, based on experience and career level.
Artist is provided housing in host housing with a private bedroom, private bathroom, access to kitchen and laundry.

Season
Artist must be available for entire season. Arrival is on Monday, June 1, official season start date is Tuesday, June 2. Season continues until the close of the final performance on Sunday, July 19. Artists have one day off each week.

Repertoire for the season includes Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella, Rossini’s Il barbiere di Siviglia, a New Works Series, an Aria Concert, as well as outreach performances and an orchestra concert. 

Artist will serve as the rehearsal pianist and continuo player for Il barbiere di Siviglia.

The application will remain open until filled.

Apply Here!