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Full Time Dance Accompanist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Full Time Dance Accompanist information

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$48.5K

$55.4K

$67.5K

How much do full time dance accompanist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for full time dance accompanist in the United States is $55,404.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $61,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a full time dance accompanist typically collaborate with dance instructors and students during classes?

A full-time dance accompanist works closely with dance instructors to provide live musical support that aligns with the lesson plan and the needs of the class. Collaboration often involves adapting tempo, rhythm, and musical style in real-time based on the instructor’s cues and the students’ progress. The accompanist may also participate in pre-class discussions to understand the day’s focus, and provide feedback or suggestions on musical selections. Building strong communication with instructors and being responsive to classroom dynamics are key to supporting both teaching and learning effectively.

What is the difference between Full Time Dance Accompanist vs Part Time Dance Accompanist?

AspectFull Time Dance AccompanistPart Time Dance Accompanist
CredentialsTypically requires similar certifications in music or piano, with experience in dance settingsSame as full time, but may have less formal experience
Work EnvironmentWorks primarily in dance studios, theaters, or educational institutions on a full schedulePerforms on a flexible, part-time basis, often for specific classes or rehearsals
Employer & Industry UsageEmployed by dance schools, theaters, or universities for regular dutiesHired as needed for specific events or classes

In summary, a Full Time Dance Accompanist works regularly and consistently in dance environments, requiring full credentials and a steady schedule, while a Part Time Dance Accompanist offers flexible, occasional support for dance activities.

What is a full time dance accompanist?

Full time dance accompanists are professional musicians who provide live musical accompaniment for dance classes, rehearsals, and sometimes performances. They work closely with dance instructors to support various styles of dance, such as ballet, modern, or jazz, by playing piano, percussion, or other instruments as needed. Their role is crucial in helping dancers maintain rhythm, tempo, and musicality during practice sessions. Full time accompanists are typically employed by dance schools, universities, or professional dance companies, and are expected to have a deep understanding of both music and dance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full time dance accompanist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Full Time Dance Accompanist, you need strong musical proficiency, sight-reading ability, and familiarity with a range of dance styles, often supported by a degree in music or equivalent experience. Experience with piano or percussion instruments and knowledge of audio equipment or music notation software are typically valuable. Adaptability, keen observation, and effective communication help accompanists respond to instructors’ cues and support dancers. These skills ensure seamless collaboration, enhance the learning environment, and enable dynamic support for dance classes and rehearsals.
What are the most commonly searched types of Dance Accompanist jobs? The most popular types of Dance Accompanist jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Full Time Dance Accompanist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Full Time Dance Accompanist jobs are:
Full Time Dance Accompanist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Full Time Dance Accompanist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,404 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Student Accompanist (Technical) - Dance

University of Central Oklahoma

Edmond, OK • On-site

$15/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

University Of Central Oklahoma rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 618 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position Overview

This is a Regular Student Technical position as a Student Accompanist. In collaboration with the dance instructor, the student accompanist will provide accompaniment for major level modern dance classes in the Department of Dance.

Hours per Week

As needed, not to exceed 10 hours per week.

College/Department Overview

Department of Dance.

Department Specific Job Functions

Student accompanists will play musical selections from scores, leads sheets, or from memory in various styles and meters such as 3/4, 4/4, 5/4 and 6/8 tempos for warm-up exercises, combinations, across-the-floor exercises and compositions. The student accompanist must be able to improvise music in a variety of styles and provide music which reflects and supports dance movement.

Enrollment Requirements

Fall/Spring Semesters: All student employees must be enrolled at least half-time to be eligible to work any UCO student position. Half-time enrollment for fall/spring semesters is considered 5 hours for graduates and 6 hours for undergraduates. International students must be enrolled full-time to be eligible to work as a student employee. Full-time enrollment is 9 credit hours for graduates and 12 credit hours for undergraduates.

Summer Semester: Student employees working regular student positions must be enrolled in at least 3 credit hours to be eligible to work during the summer. Students not enrolled in summer classes must be enrolled in fall classes in order to work during the summer, but they (and the department) will be required to pay FICA taxes. Student employees working FWSP positions must be enrolled in a minimum of 6 credit hours (if undergraduate) or 5 credit hours (if graduate) in order to work during the summer in a Federal Work Study Program position.

Enrollment Exception: If the number of credit hours needed to graduate is less than the minimum number of hours required for student employment, the student must obtain a letter from their Academic Advisor (stating the number of hours needed to graduate and anticipated graduation date) and submit it to Human Resources. This pertains to both regular and Federal Work Study Program positions. Contact jobs@uco.edu for more information.

Qualifications/Experience Required

Qualified candidates must have knowledge of music theory, harmony, musical forms, phrase structure, composition techniques and their application. Also, must understand and carryout oral instructions, establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with others and demonstrate a willingness to work collaboratively as a team member.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

  • Sensitivity of intercultural communication.
  • Good interpersonal skills.
  • Dependable.
  • Punctual.

Physical Demands

Reasonable accommodation, in accordance with ADA requirements, may be made upon request to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

What University Of Central Oklahoma employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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