Ballet master

Ballet masters (also Premier Maître de ballet or Premier Maître de ballet en chef) are assigned to a ballet company and have primary responsibility for maintaining the quality and level of the company. In the past, the role of ballet master was divided into two positions: "First ballet master," the artistic director and chief choreographer of a company, and "Second ballet master," for daily teaching and other assistant duties under the First Ballet master. In modern times, these roles are commonly referred to as Artistic director and ballet master.

What is the job of ballet masters?

Ballet masters work very closely with the ballet company by planning, adjusting, and directing daily ballet classes and rehearsals for the company. They ensure that the company meets the needs of the choreographers and that the company's traditional and new repertoire is of high quality. They are responsible for ensuring that there are substitutes and alternative solutions for a performance when, for example, dancers get injured.

What does it take to become a ballet master?

Most ballet masters have had a long ballet career and therefore have solid training and experience in ballet. You should have a very long experience in teaching ballet, and you are required to be a highly qualified ballet teacher. Great emphasis is placed on your ability to build a strong community within the company and to create effective and constructive training. You should be stress resistant, objective, engaging, and able to make quick decisions. Since much of the work involves repertory, production management, choreographers, and a large number of dancers, you should be a collaborative and communicative person. 

Source: Wikipedia, StagePool, BBC