Northrop Pre-Show Performance Opportunities
Northrop is seeking passionate, skilled musicians to create a welcoming and engaging ambiance for patrons before select Northrop Presents performances. This paid opportunity, which includes complimentary tickets to the associated performance, is excellent for students seeking professional experience or established musicians looking to reach new audiences.
Program Details:
Spring 2026 Pre-Performance Opportunities
- Martha Graham Dance Company: Northrop is seeking a Classical, Modernist, or Americana ensemble to play pre-show music for the Martha Graham Dance Company on the evening of Sat, Feb 7. Celebrating its 100th anniversary, the legendary Martha Graham Dance Company remains a world leader in the evolution of contemporary dance. Exemplifying its founder’s timeless, uniquely American style of dance, this once-in-a-lifetime performance honors the theme of American Legacies. The ensemble will play in the Northrop Atrium on the second level from 6:30 to 7:20 pm. The ensemble's payment for the night will be $300. Complimentary tickets to the 7:30 pm performance will also be included.
- Joffrey Ballet: American Icons: Northrop is seeking a Neoclassical, Orchestral, or Jazz-influenced small ensemble to play pre-show music for the Joffrey Ballet on the evening of Thur, Mar 5. American Icons celebrates four choreographers who shaped the American ballet landscape: Glenn Tetley, Martha Graham, Gerald Arpino, and the company’s founder, Robert Joffrey. The soaring program is brought to life with live orchestra, including a stirring piece played by Northrop Organist Greg Zelek that highlights our glorious Aeolian-Skinner Op—892, exemplifying the daring and enduring spirit that defines the Joffrey's maverick legacy. The pre-show ensemble will play in the Northrop Atrium on the second level from 6:30 to 7:20 pm. The ensemble's payment for the night will be $300. Complimentary tickets to the 7:30 pm performance will also be included.
- Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater: Northrop is seeking a Jazz, Gospel, Soul, or Contemporary ensemble to play pre-show music for the return of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater on the evening of Fri, Apr 18. Under the leadership of new Artistic Director Alicia Graf Mack, the company remains guided as ever by Alvin Ailey’s pioneering legacy. Audiences will be treated to classic works from the Ailey repertory that have inspired and uplifted fans for decades—including the touchstone of inspiration, Revelations, the ultimate anthem to resilience and joy. Ailey will continue to break ground with new works by contemporary choreographers that promise to propel dance in exciting new directions. The ensemble will play in the Northrop Atrium on the second level from 6:30 to 7:20 pm. The ensemble's payment for the night will be $300. Complimentary tickets to the 7:30 pm performance will also be included.
Audience:
Patrons moving through Northrop’s main entrance and common spaces.
Marketing & Promotion:
Ensembles will be featured on Northrop’s social media and website leading up to the event!
How to Apply:
UMN students of all musical backgrounds and genres and non-student musicians based in the Twin Cities area are eligible to apply. Email nacampus@umn.edu with:
- a brief description of your musical experience
- repertoire
- why you’d be a good fit for the performance, including links to performance videos or recordings (YouTube, SoundCloud, etc).
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and we look forward to receiving your submission!
