Youth Chorus Accompanist

The Lenoir-Rhyne University College of Fine Arts and Communication (Hickory Campus) invites applications for a part-time appointment as the accompanist for the Lenoir-Rhyne Youth Chorus (LRYC). The ideal candidate is an inspiring musician and educator who values both artistic excellence and holistic youth development. Appointment begins August 2026.

The Accompanist provides skilled keyboard accompaniment for the Lenoir-Rhyne Youth Chorus (LRYC), supporting weekly rehearsals and performances. This role works closely with the LRYC artistic director and singers in grades 3–12 to provide an enriching musical experience.

Founded in 1997, LRYC is a multi-ensemble program that fosters healthy vocal development, music literacy, and a lifelong appreciation for music. Students rehearse weekly and perform throughout the academic year, including collaborations with the LR A Cappella Choir, churches, civic organizations, and the Western Piedmont Symphony.

LRYC includes three ensembles:

• Minnesingers (grades 3 and above; beginning/intermediate treble voices)
• Meistersingers (advanced treble voices)

• Provide piano accompaniment for weekly rehearsals during the academic year (August through November and January through April).
• Provide piano accompaniment for performances and tours.
• Assist with occasional soloist or sectional rehearsals as needed.
• Foster a creative, inclusive, and respectful rehearsal environment.
• Assist in promoting the program through outreach, recruitment, and community engagement efforts.

• Proficiency in piano accompaniment with strong sight-reading skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively.

• A bachelor’s degree in music or a related field.
• Experience accompanying choral ensembles.
• Experience working with children and youth in an educational setting.

• Rehearsals are currently held on Monday evenings from 5:15–9:00 p.m.
• The position requires additional time for concert preparation, occasional touring, and administrative coordination.

While completing the application, candidates will be prompted to submit:

• Letter of Application specifically discussing how one’s professional experiences and perspectives relate to the needs of the position
• Curriculum Vitae or resume including the names and addresses of three references
• Link to website, portfolio, and / or performances, if applicable

The position will remain open until filled. Any questions regarding the position or the search process should be submitted electronically to the Coordinator of Community Music Programs, Kassandra Ormsby-Hutcheson, cheson .

The university’s mission, vision, and values statements may be reviewed using About LR .

Lenoir-Rhyne University promotes a welcoming campus environment that is integral to the university's commitment to excellence in engagement and education. We are particularly interested in candidates who have demonstrated experience nurturing a welcoming community, working with faculty, staff and/or students from all walks of life and/or incorporating varied perspectives and traditions in their current or previous positions. This commitment is rooted in our Lutheran tradition of fostering wisdom, nurturing vocation and preparing students for lives of purpose while serving the common good.

The College of Fine Arts and Communication is committed to developing well-rounded graduates who are perceptive readers and listeners, persuasive writers and speakers, and skilled artists and educators. Our curricula strive to express, enrich, and elevate the human condition by providing students with interdisciplinary experiences that strengthen their abilities to create, collaborate, and contribute to the 5/15/2026 public good. The college offers bachelor’s degrees in communication studies, English, music, theatre, and visual art and an MFA in Creative Writing.

Lenoir-Rhyne University is a co-educational, private, comprehensive institution founded in 1891, with its traditional campus located in Hickory, North Carolina, a city of more than 40,000. The university…