Job Description
Seasonal Usher – Dolly Threads Summer Concert Series
Love live music? Looking for a fun summer job in the arts? Join us at the Nashville Symphony!
The Nashville Symphony is hiring seasonal part-time ushers to support the Dolly Threads Summer Concert Series, featuring 37 concerts over 7 weeks from June 16–July 31. This is a great opportunity for college students, summer interns, theater/music students, hospitality-minded individuals, and anyone interested in gaining hands-on experience in live events, guest services, and arts administration.
Reports to: House Manager and FOH/Manager on Duty, Schermerhorn Symphony Center
Area of Responsibility: House; inside concert hall and lobby areas
Status: Part-Time, Seasonal, Hourly, Non-Exempt
Compensation: $12/hr
Event Dates: June 16 – July 31
Series Details: 37 concerts over 7 weeks [Ushers assigned to concerts as needed]
Parking: Free parking provided
Why You’ll Love It
- Work in one of Nashville’s premier live music venues
- Gain hands-on experience in live events, hospitality, guest services, and arts administration
- Build transferable skills in communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and event operations
- Flexible seasonal work during the summer
- Be part of an exciting concert series in downtown Nashville
- Free parking provided for scheduled shifts
Job Summary
The Nashville Symphony is seeking dedicated, guest-focused seasonal ushers to support the Dolly Threads Summer Concert Series at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center.
Ushers provide a positive front-of-house experience where guests feel welcome, safe, valued, and cared for throughout each performance. This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy working with people, thrive in a live event environment, and want to be part of a fun, fast-paced summer concert series.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
- Ensure the safety of guests.
- Attend to the needs of guests in a friendly, welcoming, and professional manner.
- Greet and direct guests throughout the concert hall and lobby areas.
- Escort and direct guests to their seats and other lobby locations.
- Act upon guest comments and complaints in a prompt, friendly, and professional manner.
- Effectively and positively interact with guests, Nashville Symphony staff, and fellow Schermerhorn Symphony Center team members.
- Position yourself proactively to assist guests and answer questions regarding the Nashville Symphony, Schermerhorn Symphony Center, and event logistics.
- Assist in the resolution of ticketing and seating concerns.
- Take appropriate action in emergency and/or stressful situations.
- Actively participate in emergency evacuation procedures, if and when necessary.
- Attend mandatory training sessions before beginning usher duties and any additional required training throughout the series as needed.
- Attend pre-concert meetings before each performance or special event.
Work Requirements and Qualifications
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Excellent customer service skills.
- Friendly, personable, and professional demeanor.
- Strong verbal communication skills, with the ability to provide clear, concise, and articulate instructions.
- Positive, helpful attitude and ability to work well as part of a team.
- Ability to respond professionally to guest needs, questions, and concerns.
- Ability to deal discreetly and sensitively with disruptive or dissatisfied guests.
- Ability to work independently and use sound judgment while keeping supervisors informed of work activity and issues.
- Ability to multitask and stay calm in a busy event environment.
- Ability to understand and follow written and oral communication or direction.
- Ability to read, write, and communicate in English.
- Ability to work flexible and varied hours, including nights, weekends, and/or holidays.
- Availability to support multiple concerts during the Dolly Threads Summer Concert Series.
- CPR/AED and First Aid certification is helpful, but not required.
Uniform Requirements
Ushers must be able to provide the following components of the usher uniform:
- White shirt or blouse with a collar that will accommodate a neck tie
- Black slacks, not denim, or black skirt, knee length or longer
- Black closed-toe shoes; no open-toe shoes or flip flops
- Small flashlight
The Nashville Symphony will provide the remaining components of the usher uniform.
Equipment to Be Used
- Wireless hand-held ticket scanner
- Two-way radio
- Flashlight
Physical Demands
The employee is expected to stand for long periods of time, climb up and down stairs, and lift and move up to 30 pounds. The employee must be able to work in a dimly lit environment.
