Lyric Opera of Kansas City 2027–28: Resident Singers $650 Weekly, Pianists $900, Apply by 2 November
Two paid artistic roles in an established opera company
Lyric Opera of Kansas City is accepting applications for its 2027–28 Resident Artist Program from singers and collaborative pianists until 2 November 2026. The programme is best suited to emerging professionals with a completed master's degree or comparable advanced training. It offers a total of 28 paid weeks across two separate seasons of activity: 23 August–14 November 2027 and 24 January–14 May 2028. Artists participate in opera rehearsals, educational performances, coaching and community activities.
Transparent pay, but living costs remain important
Singers receive $650 per week and the selected pianist $900 per week. The company offers up to $500 in relocation expense reimbursement, but does not provide housing or health insurance. Those omissions matter for applicants moving to Missouri, because even an apparently attractive weekly stipend must cover accommodation and other living costs. The programme is paid professional development rather than a full permanent opera-house position.
Different submission repertoire for singers and coaches
Singer candidates provide a résumé and three video recordings, including one selection in Italian and one in English; the English work may be classic musical theatre. Coach/accompanist candidates record a short piano solo plus two of three specified opera rehearsal excerpts, from Le nozze di Figaro, La Bohème and Ariadne auf Naxos, singing indicated lines with the correct original diction. Shortlisted artists will be notified by 18 December 2026 for in-person auditions in New York, 13–15 January, or Kansas City, 21–22 January 2027.
Company background and careful planning
Lyric Opera of Kansas City stages major repertoire such as Rigoletto and Carmen and runs training and community programmes. The Resident Artists may study or perform supporting roles, but a given mainstage role is not guaranteed by admission. Applicants should review the official YAP Tracker listing and the company's careers page, and confirm travel, US work eligibility and role assignments before accepting an engagement.
Official call, rules and application
Information reviewed on 23 October 2026. Always confirm current eligibility, deadline and time zone, costs, recording requirements and licence/contract conditions on the organiser's site before submitting or paying.