What are the responsibilities and job description for the Music Director position at UMCPS?
About Us:
The United Methodist Church of Palm Springs (UMPSC) is a vibrant, inclusive, and justice‑centered congregation. As a Reconciling Ministries church, we affirm the sacred worth of all people, including our LGBTQIA community, and embody radical hospitality, compassion, and hope. Music is central to our worship life, blending the depth of traditional hymnody with the vibrancy of gospel, jazz, contemporary, and global styles.
Position Summary:
We are seeking a Music Director to lead our music ministry with creativity, excellence, and inclusivity. This role develops and directs a blended worship program that honors classical traditions while embracing innovative, “outside the box” approaches that reflect the diversity and future of UMCPS. The Music Director will lead choirs, ensembles, and praise bands; cultivate congregational participation; and nurture musicians in a supportive, grace‑filled environment.
Key Responsibilities:
● Shape and lead a blended music ministry (traditional, gospel, global, contemporary).
● Direct and rehearse choir, praise team, handbell choir, and ensembles.
● Provide music for Sunday worship, holy days, weddings, funerals, and special events.
● Recruit, mentor, and support musicians of all skill levels.
● Collaborate with clergy and worship staff on weekly planning.
● Integrate technology (screens, livestream, multimedia) into worship.
● Manage music library, licensing, and ministry budget.
● Build community connections through concerts, partnerships, and outreach.
Qualifications Required:
● Deep love for music as a spiritual expression.
● Strong leadership, communication, and collaboration skills.
● Creativity, flexibility, and pastoral sensitivity.
● Commitment to inclusivity, diversity, and justice.
● Ability to navigate both traditional liturgy and modern worship culture.
Preferred:
● Experience in church music leadership.
● Success directing choirs and/or praise bands.
● Familiarity with sacred, contemporary, and global Christian music.
● Organ or piano proficiency (especially with our new Allen Organ upgrade).
● Skills in arrangement, composition, or improvisation.
Work Schedule:
● Schedule: Part‑time (approx. 15–20 hours/week). Includes Sunday worship, weekly rehearsals, planning meetings, and special events. Flexibility required for weddings, funerals, and seasonal services (Advent, Lent, Easter, Christmas).
Compensation:
● $35-$38/hour, commensurate with experience.
● Paid time off as requested/required.
● Supplemental Ancillary Employee Benefits may be offered.
● Professional development support.
Our Core Values:
Embrace Hospitality – Nurture Spirituality – Serve Hope – Play!
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should send a resume AND a cover letter to recruiting@umcps.org.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. We are hoping to complete this search before June 2026.
UMCPS is proudly an Equal Opportunity Employer!
Salary : $35 - $38