Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Durango

Durango, Colorado

Position Announcement: Professional Music Staff

March 2024

Position Purpose

Three main responsibilities for this position are: Music Director, Choir Director and Pianist. These responsibilities could be accomplished by one person or shared by two persons, depending on interest and abilities. Applicants should indicate their area(s) of interest among these responsibilities.

Music has been a longstanding, significant aspect of the mission and ministry of UUFD and its worship services. The Music Director supports the vision and mission of UUFD by coordinating and leading an engaging and inspiring music program, central to which is an adult choir and worship music, along with a variety of guest musicians. The role also ensures that musicians are developing in shared ministry with one another and are given the opportunity to use their gifts to serve the congregation. There are many opportunities to broaden the scope and approach of this position. The Music Director is considered to be an integral and participating member of the UUFD staff, where the Music Director’s input and participation are welcomed and encouraged in meeting the objective of the church’s ministry.

Music Director Reports to: The Minister

Pianist and Choir Director, if separate, report to: Music Director

Music Director Directly Supervises : Other music staff

FLSA Status: Non-exempt

Hours and Compensation, subject to Board and Budget Approval

Salary Range: $25-$30/hr

Hours:

Music Director: 30 hrs./month

Choir Director: 18 hrs./month

Pianist: 28 hrs./month

Additional special events would be compensated at the same rates.

Who and Where We Are 

The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Durango (UUFD) is a vibrant presence of liberal religion in the Four Corners area of Southwest CO. Durango is a small city, offering abundant cultural activities including art, theater, and music through community groups and Fort Lewis College. Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, it appeals to outdoor enthusiasts with skiing, river activities, biking and hiking trails, and other outdoor activities. Leave the big city life behind and enjoy the clean air and 300 sunny days a year. Visit the UUFD website at: durangouu.org 

Essential Functions

Music Program Leadership and Management

• Music Director (MD) oversees a music program that provides inspiring worship and spiritual experiences to nurture individual and community spiritual growth and deepen understanding of UU principles
• MD creates and oversees music in worship that can provide meaningful church experiences for all congregants. In addition to Sunday mornings, this may include special services and the annual Pine Song church retreat in July
• Choir Director (CD) conducts the UUFD choir(s), including scheduling rehearsals and choir retreat
• MD prepares, submits, and administers an annual budget for the music program
• MD manages the music program’s physical assets, including maintenance of instruments
• MD sets policies regarding the use of the congregation’s piano
• MD and CD maintain membership in the Association of UU Music Ministries and contact with music colleagues in other congregations, as possible and appropriate
• MD works with the UUFD Music Team to offer effective mentoring of volunteers for both administrative and musical tasks
• MD maintains a log of music performed on Sundays and completes quarterly reports to copyright licensing agencies.
• MD, CD and Pianist communicate in a timely manner

Worship Music

• MD and CD choose and recommend music for worship services, in consultation with the minister and the Worship Team
• With the help of the Music Team, MD and CD oversee the church music library
• MD hires and schedules soloists and accompanists for worship as needed
• MD ensures that all music complies with copyright and intellectual property rights policies
• MD supports and develops congregational singing and participation
• MD, CD and Pianist are present three Sundays a month in worship - the schedule agreed on with the Minister - to lead and oversee music and musicians for worship, including the adult choir, which sings on average every three or four weeks

Community Engagement and Outreach

• Participates in community music events

Minimum Qualifications

• MD will have extensive musical training, with demonstrated success in music program management in a variety of settings
• CD will demonstrate experience in directing a choir, and be willing to audition for the choir before an offer of employment.
• MD, CD, and Pianist will show familiarity and competence with diverse styles of music appropriate for the mission and vision of UUFD, and be willing to explore new music
• MD will be proficient in at least one instrument, in addition to voice; CD will be proficient in voice and choral technique.
• MD will show competence in managing, coordinating, inspiring, and guiding paid staff and volunteers in keeping with the responsibilities of the position
• MD and CD will demonstrate creativity and patience with individuals having various musical skills
• MD, CD and Pianist will work well in a collaborative environment

Core Competencies: MD, CD and Pianist

Vision and Purpose:

• Understand the principles, values, history, and worship in Unitarian Universalism and UUFD

Interpersonal Skills:

• Recognize the importance of relationships in building Beloved Community
• Recognize and manage conflict
• Practice healthy communication techniques
• Engage others in a spirit of love, optimism, and grace

Integrity and Professionalism:

• Keep confidences and protects confidential information
• Accept criticism and feedback in a professional manner
• Aim for the highest level of professional performance as an individual and a team member

Application

Position(s) available to begin as early as May 2024, preferably no later than August 15, 2024. For more information, including compensation rates, and to apply, send a cover letter and resumé to:

Rev. Dr. Barbara Coeyman, Interim Minister

UU Fellowship of Durango

419 San Juan Drive

Durango, CO 81301

970-247-1004

intmin@durangouu.org