South Church (UCC) in Andover is looking for a dynamic youth choir director to lead a The Nectar Choir for early elementary school (currently K-2), with the potential to later expand also direct a preschool choir for children ages 0-5 (if desired), as we continue to build our children’s music ministry. This is an exciting time in the life of our church, as our programs have expanded to the point that we need more staff to help us accomplish our goals of becoming one of the largest children’s choir programs north of Boston. We are looking for a director who is excited to work with music staff as we design and develop curriculum that is age-appropriate, creative, and fun, while helping young musicians connect with and build upon their faith. This position is approximately 5-8 hours per week. The Director will report to the Minister of Music.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities:

· Build, lead, and direct the choirs, rehearsing weekly (Wednesdays 5-6PM and Sundays 11:30AM-12:30PM) and offering anthems for Sunday morning worship approximately once per month, September through May. The same class is offered two times each week, each with a different group of kids; they will sing together for worship.

· Select repertoire that is educational, meaningful, and inspirational, using a variety of styles and accompaniments, while always adhering to copyright law.

· Have clear and direct communication with choristers and their families (especially regarding scheduling).

· Meet with Minister of Music and other music staff for quick weekly check-ins, as well as two longer meetings

at the beginning of each term (to coordinate schedules, including rehearsals, special events, and services).

· Participate in other occasional staff and committee meetings, if needed.

· Help recruit new singers within the congregation as well as from the greater community.

· Be present for Sunday morning worship at 10AM, occasionally providing special music as agreed upon.

· Work with the Minister of Music to purchase new music and educational materials with budgeted funds.

· Work with music staff to keep the music spaces tidy and organized.

· Submit time cards will be submitted every two weeks as a contract employee.

· Other duties as assigned, if applicable. Ideally, the Director would also lead a Homework Club on Wednesdays 4-5PM, but this is completely negotiable.

Core Competencies & Qualifications:

· Demonstrated ability to guide and inspire children of varying developmental stages and musical abilities.

· Strong musicianship as a performer with an understanding of pedagogy.

· A basic understanding of and alignment with a progressive Christian perspective.

· Affirms the worth and dignity of all, particularly LGBTQ and BIPOC.

· Strong organizational skills, an ability to take direction, and work independently.

· Strong leadership, teamwork, and interpersonal skills to establish good working relationships with musicians, families, staff, and people outside the church community.

· Strong integrity, being trustworthy at all times, practicing direct, honest, and transparent communication.

· Pass a CORI and SORI check and provide two letters of reference.

Our preferred candidate will have experience teaching children and/or youth music in a sacred or secular environment and will have a Bachelor’s degree.

Job Type: Part-time

Expected hours: 5 – 8 per week

Schedule:

• 4 hour shift

Ability to Relocate:

• Andover, MA 01810: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person