For more than a century, UMKC Conservatory has been a leader in creating Kansas City’s cultural riches and in extending UMKC's reach nationally and internationally. Focused upon creativity, performance, scholarship, and learning in the arts, UMKC Conservatory is, at heart, a community of warm and fiercely dedicated people.

Mission Statement

On the University of Missouri's designated performing arts campus, the UMKC Conservatory is an educational community that advances creativity, performance, scholarship and learning in the arts. We are a vital partner in Kansas City's rich cultural environment, providing the highest level of professional instruction and an extensive array of performances. As a community, we collaborate to balance tradition and innovation with diversity and unity, as we seek to serve art and humanity. 

Excellence, Access and Innovation are guiding principles at the UMKC Conservatory.

Excellence

More than 100 faculty and staff guide nearly 700 students through a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs. UMKC Conservatory presents 500+ events per year, including recitals, master classes, concerts, workshops and main stage productions. A distinguished group of artists, scholars and educators, our faculty are passionate about art and dedicated to helping students create their place in a changing world.

Access

UMKC Conservatory is a vital educational and cultural partner in Kansas City through its robust performance schedule and engagement programs. Led by UMKC Conservatory faculty, staff, alumni and students, our Academy reaches 2,400 students per year, ages 2 to 82, through lessons, ensembles, music camps, festivals and more. Part of a model urban research university, UMKC Conservatory partners with a diverse range of educators, artists and organizations to expand audiences and sustain arts instruction for every child.

Innovation

In an age of immense possibility and breathtaking technological change, we believe artistry is a key to the future. UMKC Conservatory embraces innovation and an entrepreneurial spirit in the creation of new works, new ways to share emerging and established repertory and in helping students develop a portfolio of career skills to navigate the 21st century.

A life in the arts is a calling. We invite you to learn more about UMKC Conservatory on this website and through our social media channels. Whether you are a prospective student, parent, returning friend or collaborator, we hope you learn about us, and we look forward to learning more about you.

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Unique areas of study

Conservatory Fast Facts