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Ballet Dancer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Fitness Instructor

Bristol, TN · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Pure Barre is a total body workout that utilizes the ballet barre to perform small, isometric ... Background in dance, fitness, cheerleading or barre concept (ideal but not required) * All ...

Fitness Instructor

Bristol, TN · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Pure Barre is a total body workout that utilizes the ballet barre to perform small, isometric ... Background in dance, fitness, cheerleading or barre concept (ideal but not required) * All ...

Ballet Dancer information

See Tennessee salary details

$4

$20

$42

How much do ballet dancer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for ballet dancer in Tennessee is $20.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.08 and $35.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a ballet dancer?

To thrive as a Ballet Dancer, you need exceptional physical fitness, refined technique, and extensive training, often gained through years of practice and attendance at a reputable dance academy or conservatory. Mastery of classical ballet styles, familiarity with choreographic notation, and sometimes proficiency in related dance software or video analysis tools are common technical requirements. Discipline, resilience, teamwork, and strong communication skills help dancers excel both on stage and during rehearsals. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering compelling performances, maintaining physical health, and succeeding in a competitive performing arts environment.

How much money do ballet dancers make?

Ballet dancers' salaries vary based on experience, location, and the company they work for. In the United States, professional ballet dancers typically earn between $20,000 and $100,000 annually, with top-tier dancers earning more. Many dancers supplement income through teaching, coaching, or performing in additional productions.

What is a ballet dancer?

Ballet dancers are highly trained artists who perform choreographed dances based on the classical ballet technique. Their work involves rigorous physical training, flexibility, strength, and expressive movement to interpret music and tell stories through dance. Ballet dancers often perform in professional companies, theaters, or ballet productions, and may also teach or choreograph. The career requires dedication, discipline, and ongoing practice to master and maintain technical skills.

What qualifications do you need to be a ballet dancer?

To become a ballet dancer, individuals typically need formal training from a ballet school or conservatory, often starting at a young age. A strong foundation in technique, flexibility, and strength is essential, and many dancers pursue a bachelor's degree in dance or related fields. Professional experience, auditions, and sometimes certifications in dance or related disciplines are also important for career advancement.

What are typical challenges ballet dancers face in maintaining peak performance throughout a season?

Ballet dancers often face the challenge of managing physical fatigue and preventing injuries during demanding rehearsal and performance schedules. Maintaining peak performance requires diligent self-care, including proper nutrition, rest, and cross-training. Dancers must also adapt quickly to different choreography and performance styles, often collaborating closely with choreographers, fellow dancers, and support staff to ensure seamless shows. Staying motivated and resilient mentally is crucial, especially when balancing multiple roles or performances within a short timeframe.

What is the difference between Ballet Dancer vs Contemporary Dancer?

AspectBallet DancerContemporary Dancer
Training & CertificationsFormal ballet training, often with certifications from dance academiesVaried training, including modern dance, improvisation, and contemporary techniques
Work EnvironmentClassical ballet companies, theaters, stage performancesModern dance companies, experimental theaters, diverse performance spaces
Industry UsagePrimarily in classical ballet productions and academiesIn contemporary dance performances, festivals, and innovative projects

While both ballet dancers and contemporary dancers perform on stage and require strong dance skills, ballet dancers focus on classical techniques and formal training, whereas contemporary dancers embrace a broader range of styles and improvisation. The choice depends on the dance style and performance context.

What are popular job titles related to Ballet Dancer jobs in Tennessee?

For Ballet Dancer jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Ballet Dancer jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Ballet Dancer jobs in Tennessee are:

Infographic showing various Ballet Dancer job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Part Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,531 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Part-time Instructor (Pool) - Theater & Dance

APSU, Inc.

Clarksville, TN • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Austin Peay State University, Department of Theatre and Dance is seeking temporary,
part-time adjunct faculty in the areas of Theatre, Musical Theatre, Design, and Dance.

The department of Theatre and Dance is housed in the Trahern Building and the
Memorial Health Building. We produce six shows per season, two plays, two musicals,
and two dance concerts. The Trahern building houses the Margaret Fort Trahern
Laboratory Theatre and the Trahern Theatre (Proscenium) as well as a large acting
studio and dance studio. The Memorial Health building houses two large dance studios.

The Department of Theatre and Dance is an integral member of the Center of Excellence
for the Creative Arts (CECA - see www.apsu.edu/creativearts). A long-established statefunded initiative, CECA is designed to enhance the cultural environment of the university,
community and region through a diverse range of imaginative arts experiences.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities 

Teach courses pending department need including but not limited to: 

- Practical Theory 1 and 2 (Music) - Private Voice Instruction (1/2hour and 1 hour) - Introduction to Dance (Lecture Course) 

- Fundamentals of Dance (studio course) 

- All levels of Modern, Ballet/pointe, Jazz and Tap Dance technique 

- African, West African, Afro-Caribbean, World Dance 

- Hip-Hop Dance - Fitness for Dancers (Pilates, Yoga) 

- Dance for Musical Theatre 

- Introduction to Theatre - Acting I - Makeup (as in makeup application and design) 

- Others as needed (Courses may include Fundamentals of Sewing, Script Analysis, Somatics, or other similar needs of the department). 

Physical Requirements 

Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects. 

Required Minimum Qualifications 

- Master's degree or documented extensive, professional career or professional certification. 

- Demonstrated success as a teacher preferred. 

- A background search will be required of the successful applicant.

Required Documents 

1. Cover Letter 

2. Curriculum Vitae 

Optional Documents 

1. Unofficial Transcript 

2. Letter of Recommendation 1 

3. Letter of Recommendation 2 

4. Letter of Recommendation 3

The number of adjunct instructors hired varies from semester to semester, depending upon the needs of the department.
 
 Each applicant must include the names and contact information for three references,
one of which must be from your most recent or current employer, with your application
materials. Many people add this to the end of the CV/Resume.
 
If you would like to additionally attach Letters of Recommendation to your online
application, letters must be dated one year or less from the date of your application.
 
Letters of recommendation may be sent by email to
"facultyapplications@apsu.edu" or hard copy to "Austin Peay State University, Human
Resources Dept., PO Box 4507, Clarksville, TN 37044" with your name and desired
position clearly indicated after your online application is completed.
 
If granted an interview, unofficial transcripts will be required of applicants and official
transcripts will be required of the selected candidate before the candidate will be offered
a position. It is highly recommended that you attach unofficial transcripts in PDF format
to your online application.
 
You will not be able to attach your letters of recommendation, unofficial transcripts or
any other supplemental document(s) nor modify your application after it has been
submitted.
 
Please refer all questions to facultyapplications@apsu.edu

Austin Peay State University is a four-year public, doctoral-level university, with six colleges and four Chairs of Excellence. The University has an enrollment of over 11,000 students and is located in Clarksville, Tennessee, a community of an estimated 150,287 people located approximately 40 miles northwest of Nashville, TN.

Austin Peay State University is a proud supporter of hiring veterans. We hire veterans with equivalent experiences and pay grades from their military service, rather than requiring or preferring only college degrees. Please visit our website for more information on how veterans can qualify for additional employment opportunities at APSU: https://www.apsu.edu/human-resources/hiring-veterans/.

Austin Peay State University (APSU) prohibits discrimination in all employment, programs, and activities based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), disability, age, veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status. For Title IX inquiries or complaints, contact: Chief of Institutional Culture & Title IX Coordinator, LaNeeca R. Williams at williamslr@apsu.edu | 931-221-7690, Browning Building, Room 140, Clarksville, TN 37044. For other non-discrimination concerns, contact: Director of Institutional Culture & Title VI & Title VII Coordinator, Dr. Jo Baldwin at baldwinjapsu.edu | 931-221-7178 or Associate Director of Accessibility Compliance & ADA/504 Coordinator, Jayme Glover at gloverj@apsu.edu | 931-221-7160. View APSU's full nondiscrimination policy at Policy 6:001.