A cover letter for an Instrumentalist is your chance to shine. Your resume lists your skills, but your cover letter tells a story. It shows you understand the music scene and how you fit in. Start with your contact info, the company’s address, and the date. Keep it simple.
Opening Paragraph: Say exactly which role you want. Mention where you found the job posting. Then, name one thing that makes you perfect for this role. Maybe you’ve played in a notable orchestra or mastered a rare instrument. Make it memorable.
Body Paragraphs: Use bullet points to list your strongest experiences. For example:
- Played lead violin in 50+ performances with [Symphony Name].
- Collaborated with jazz ensembles to create original compositions.
- Won [Award Name] for solo performance at [Event Name].
Tie these to the job description. If the role needs improvisation skills, mention times you freestyled. If they value teamwork, talk about group rehearsals. Use exact numbers or names to prove your impact.
Closing Paragraph: Reiterate your excitement. Ask for an interview. End with a thank you. Keep it upbeat but professional. Avoid generic phrases like “I’m excited to join any team.” Say something specific like, “I’d love to bring my jazz expertise to [Company Name]’s upcoming tour.”
Read your letter aloud. Does it sound like you? Let your passion for music show. Tailor every word to this job. No cookie-cutter templates.
Sample Instrumentalist cover letter
October 23, 2023
Harmony Strings Collective
Musical Director
123 Melody Lane
New York, NY
Dear Musical Director,
I’m applying for the Instrumentalist role at Harmony Strings Collective. I saw your job posting while browsing the National Symphony Association’s website. As a classically trained violinist with a focus on baroque performance, I believe my 7 years of ensemble experience align perfectly with your group’s mission to blend historical and modern music.
My accomplishments include:
- Performing as concertmaster in the Boston Early Music Festival’s 2022 production of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons
- Collaborating with electronic producers to create hybrid classical-electronic compositions
- Leading workshops on period instrument maintenance for 30+ students at Juilliard
I’ve always been drawn to your collective’s innovative approach to music. Your 2023 collaboration with a hip-hop artist at Lincoln Center resonated deeply with me. I’m excited about the opportunity to help shape future projects that bridge musical traditions.
Would you consider scheduling a conversation this week to discuss how my skills in both classical technique and modern composition could contribute to your upcoming tour? Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
Sophia Ellis
