ACCOMPANIST

Bethany College

Lindsborg, Kansas

Bethany College

ACCOMPANIST

FLSA Status:

HOURLY, NON-EXEMPT

Department:

Music

Reports to:

Academic Dean/CAO

Positions Managed:

None

Why Bethany:

Rooted in our Lutheran heritage and the transformative power of the liberal arts, Bethany prepares students to lead lives of purpose, leadership, creativity, and service in a complex and changing world. Located in Lindsborg, Kansas—affectionately known as "Little Sweden" and celebrated for its vibrant arts community—Bethany offers a close-knit environment where faculty and staff know students by name and mentor them in a highly personalized setting. 

Education at Bethany is rooted in intellectual discovery and a deep sense of belonging, equipping students to think critically, lead ethically, and serve with purpose. As a small, private, rural college, Bethany plays an essential role in renewing civic life, expanding opportunity, and fostering community revitalization. We believe in the value of personalized liberal arts education, the power of community, and the promise of rural America. 

At Bethany, you'll have the opportunity to inspire the next generation while contributing to the cultural and academic life of our campus and region as we prepare students to make meaningful contributions to the world.

At Bethany, you'll have the opportunity to inspire the next generation while contributing to the cultural and academic life of our campus and region as we prepare students to make meaningful contributions to the world.

About Bethany College:

Founded in 1881, Bethany College is a dynamic liberal arts institution located in Lindsborg, Kansas—known as “Little Sweden U.S.A.” Bethany provides a transformative educational experience grounded in faith, learning, and community. The College is dedicated to cultivating leaders who serve and inspire through integrity, creativity, and purpose.

Position Overview:

The Staff Accompanist contributes to the artistic and faith life of the College through performances, institutional events, and technical support for Music Department concerts, programs, and the Office of Spiritual Life. This position provides collaborative piano support for the vocal and choral programs at Bethany College and works closely with music faculty, choral directors, and students to support rehearsals, performances, lessons, juried evaluations, chapel services, and special events during the academic year. 

Essential Functions:

Applied Lesson Support

• Accompany voice lessons as assigned by the voice faculty.
• Accompany student recitals, including degree recitals and studio recitals.
• Collaborate with voice students in preparation for auditions and competitions, including NATS-sponsored events.

Student Recruitment and Academic Evaluations

• Accompany prospective students during auditions and recruiting events for the Music program.
• Accompany students during end-of-semester vocal juries.
• Support students during recital hearings and performance assessments.

Opera and Musical Theatre

• Serve as rehearsal and performance accompanist for departmental musical theatre or opera productions as assigned.
• Participate in music rehearsals and production preparation as required.

Office of Spiritual Life

• In tandem with music faculty, serve as collaborative pianist for annual events associated with the Bethany College Messiah Festival of the Arts.
• Provide accompaniment for guest artist recitals when needed.
• Participate in master classes with visiting artists.
• Provide piano music for weekly chapel services and a chapel singing group as needed.
• Assist with event setup for music-related programs for the Office of Spiritual Life as needed. 

The statements contained herein describe the scope of responsibility and essential functions of this position, but should not be considered an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned, including work in other areas to cover absences or provide relief to equalize peak work periods or otherwise balance the workload. 

Qualifications:

Required:

• Demonstrated experience accompanying vocal repertoire and choral ensembles.
• Strong sight-reading skills and familiarity with vocal and choral literature.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with faculty, students, and guest artists.
• Excellent grammar, spelling, and writing abilities.
• Microsoft Office, computer knowledge, and knowledge of office equipment.
• Ability to communicate effectively to a variety of audiences, including students, parents, faculty, staff, alumni, administration, and the community-at-large.
• Ability to handle multiple projects and assignments concurrently and be very results-oriented.
• Highly motivated and works well both independently and in a team environment.

Preferred:

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Collaborative Piano, Piano Performance, or a related field.
• Experience accompanying high school or collegiate vocal programs.
• Experience with opera, musical theatre, and oratorio repertoire.
• Experience accompanying competitions such as those sponsored by the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS).
• Experience operating livestream platforms and basic audio/video equipment for performances and events.
• Familiarity with sound reinforcement, microphone setup, and concert video recording in a recital or concert setting.
• Bilingual in Spanish is a plus, or some knowledge of the Spanish language is a plus

Working Conditions:

• Average of 15 hours per week when classes are in session, with some additional hours for special events.
• Position totals 510 hours per academic year, spread across the academic calendar.
• Most hours occur during the regular workday, with some evenings and weekends required.
• Some travel may be required for specific events; approved event travel costs are covered.
• Commuting costs to campus are not reimbursed.
• Work is performed in rehearsal, performance, chapel, and campus event settings.

Compensation 

• Supportive, mission-driven community and a beautiful campus environment
• Hourly rate of $30.00
• Total compensation of $15,300 per academic year
• This position is not eligible for benefits

How to Apply:

• Apply online at Employment
• Submit resume and cover letter

EEO:

Bethany College, an institution of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, sex, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. 

This policy reflects Bethany College's mission to educate, develop, and challenge individuals to reach for truth and excellence as they lead lives of faith, learning, and service. This commitment to equal employment opportunities strengthens our community and enhances our ability to fulfill our educational mission.