How Much Does a Cruise Ship Pianist Make?

By Alice Nichols

A cruise ship pianist is a highly sought after and skilled individual who can provide the perfect accompaniment to any evening or event. Cruise ships have a long and distinguished history, and the piano has been a staple of the experience since day one. As such, it is no surprise that the role of a cruise ship pianist is an extremely important one.

Cruise ship pianists are usually hired by the entertainment staff of a particular vessel, and they are responsible for providing music for various events held on board. This can include dinner dances, special performances, shows, cabaret acts, and more.

The position requires an extensive knowledge of music theory and technique, as well as the ability to read music quickly and accurately. In addition to playing live music, cruise ship pianists will also be responsible for selecting appropriate pieces to accompany specific events or acts.

The salary for a cruise ship pianist will vary depending on factors such as experience level, contract length and type of vessel. According to PayScale (2020), an entry-level cruise ship pianist can expect to earn an average annual salary of around $42K per year in the U.S., with experienced professionals earning up to $58K per year. On top of this, some cruise ships may offer bonuses or additional incentives for their piano players based on performance or other criteria.

It is important to note that becoming a successful cruise ship pianist requires dedication and practice in order to master the necessary skills required for the job. It is worth noting that most individuals working in this field have had formal training in either music theory or performance techniques.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, those interested in pursuing a career as a cruise ship pianist should be aware that it is both highly rewarding and demanding work. The salary range can vary depending on experience level but generally falls between $42K – $58K annually in the U., with some potential bonuses available from certain vessels depending on performance criteria.