Ballet Accompanist (Part-Time), Dance Division, UMKC Conservatory

Hiring Department

University of Missouri - Kansas City
Conservatory
Dance Division

The UMKC Conservatory is a nationally recognized performing arts conservatory located in Kansas City, Missouri, dedicated to excellence in performance, collaboration, and arts education.

We seek a collaborative and musically responsive accompanist who enjoys working in a collegiate conservatory environment and supporting the artistic and technical development of dance students.

Job Description

The Ballet Accompanist provides live piano accompaniment for ballet technique classes at the collegiate level. The accompanist works closely with dance faculty to support class structure, musicality, phrasing, and movement dynamics in the studio setting. The ideal candidate demonstrates strong improvisational skills, rhythmic sensitivity, and familiarity with ballet class structure and terminology.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide live piano accompaniment for ballet technique classes
• Collaborate with faculty to support exercises and combinations in class
• Adapt tempo, rhythm, and musical phrasing to meet instructional needs
• Demonstrate versatility across a range of musical styles and meters appropriate for ballet training
• Maintain professionalism, punctuality, and preparedness for assigned classes
• Foster a positive and collaborative studio environment

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Demonstrated piano proficiency and strong improvisational ability
• Ability to accompany ballet technique classes with rhythmic and musical sensitivity
• Strong collaborative and communication skills
• Reliability and professionalism in an educational environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience accompanying ballet classes in professional, collegiate, or conservatory settings
• Familiarity with ballet terminology and traditional ballet class structures
• Experience working with dancers and movement-based instruction

Anticipated Hiring Range

Salary is determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to, the individual’s particular combination of education, skills, and experience, as well as organizational requirements.

Application Deadline

The application deadline is June 2, 2026.

Other Information

Schedule varies according to Dance Division needs and class offerings and may include weekday daytime classes