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

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.

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

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

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.

The application deadline is June 2, 2026.

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

Kansas City offers the best of both worlds-a vibrant, urban community with Midwestern appeal. The city's rich history and its modern-day, innovative thinking come together to create an eclectic group of neighborhoods that offer a little something for everyone. From thriving arts districts, an energetic downtown nightlife, casual to upscale shopping and champion sports teams, you will have no problem making yourself at home. Of course, one of Kansas City's biggest claims to fame is its food, especially its world-famous barbecue. Foodies will delight in the culinary scene found throughout the city. Ranging from award-winning chefs to cozy pizza joints, Kansas City definitely is not lacking any flavor.

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UMKC is proud to be "Kansas City's university," and the campus and its people celebrate all the characteristics of the surrounding community. To learn more about life in Kansas City and find more resources, visit VisitKC.com.

This position is not eligible for University benefits. Individuals in non benefit eligible positions may choose to participate in the Tax Deferred Annuity Plan (403b). For information about this plan, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Office of Equity & Title IX at 816-235-6910.