Position Title: Director of Music

This position was previously held by one person, however we are open to flexible job-sharing combinations. For example, a pianist & choir director could be one person, while a second person could specialize in organ. Regardless, we welcome all applicants and encourage you to apply.

Organizational Reporting: As a member of the church staff, the Director of Music has a direct reporting relationship to the Minister.

Position Overview: The Director of Music is responsible for leading, enhancing, and growing the music ministry program. This position works closely with the clergy, other musicians, to develop a diverse and spiritually enriching music program that complements our progressive Protestant theology and local context. The Director of Music will be a vital part of our worship services and will play a key role on staff in fostering a sense of community and spiritual growth among our members. Since the church is in a process of revitalization, special focus and attention will be given to music that engages a wide variety of styles and genres that helps grow the music program and the church.

Time commitment: This position is 10-20 hours per week. The program year runs September to June.

Essential Duties/Responsibilities

Programming and Worship Planning

• Plans, coordinates, and supports diverse and varied music for Sunday morning worship services, taking into consideration the church’s theology, vision and mission, and meets the spiritual needs of the congregation.

• Partners with the minister to select appropriate music for worship services, including anthems, solos, instrumental pieces, musical offerings, etc.

• Collaborates with the clergy to integrate music seamlessly into the worship service and provide guidance on appropriate music selections that align with the church’s theology.

• Develops programs for special occasions, such as seasonal cantatas, hymn sings, devotional performances, concerts, etc. with the goal of involving members and new guests.

• Prepares and presents music for special worship services throughout the Church year, including Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, Christmas Eve, summer break, etc.

• Arranges for substitute musician during planned vacations, absences, etc. and prepares them.

Choir and Ensemble Leadership

• Leads choir rehearsals on Thursday evenings and Sunday mornings before the service

• Conducts auditions and selection of soloists, and supervises the soloists/section leaders

• Recruits and coordinates the participation and performance of instrumentalists

• Supports other ensembles on an ad hoc basis, such as jazz band, youth band, other Guest Artists

• Maintains the Bell Choir instruments and sheet music, and plans programming throughout the Church year.

• Recruits and develops volunteers to assist in the music activities and programs of the church, including youth and summer services.

• Fosters a sense of community, inclusivity, and musical excellence

• Provides music for weddings and funerals held at the Church (right of first refusal)

Administration

• Provides the church office with information for bulletin on a timely basis (by Wednesday at noon.)

• Helps develop the annual music operating budget and operates the music program within the constraints of the budget

• Maintains the music library in helpful and organized ways

• Coordinates the maintenance and tuning of all Church musical instruments, including the organ

• Attends and participates in regular staff meetings and other occasional meetings

• Collaborates with other staff and lay leaders

Recruitment and Community Outreach

• Recruit, train, and support volunteers who wish to participate in the music ministry, including vocalists and instrumentalists.

• Engage with the wider community through musical events, performances, and outreach programs to promote the church and its mission.

Qualifications:

• An understanding and appreciation of liberal progressive Protestant theology and an

ability to integrate it thoughtfully into the music ministry of the church.

• Proficiency in playing the piano and/or organ, as well as conducting choirs and

ensembles.

• Strong interpersonal and leadership skills, with the ability to work effectively with

volunteers and diverse groups of people.

• Experience in music selection and planning for worship services.

• Excellent organizational and administrative skills.

• A commitment to fostering inclusivity and diversity within the church community.

• Entrepreneurial approach to growing a music program that can include anything from an

occasional children’s choir to a community gospel concert

Minimum Job Requirements:

Education: Bachelor degree in Music Performance, Music Education, Sacred Music, Choral Conducting or related field required, Master’s degree preferred.

Experience: 1-3 years previous experience in Music Performance, Music Education, Sacred Music, Choral Conducting or a combination of other related experience.

To Apply:

For more information and to apply, please send a cover letter and a resume to Chairperson, Personnel Committee, at jobs.secondchurch@gmail.com

Job Type: Part-time

Expected hours: 10 – 20 per week

Schedule:

• Weekends as needed

Work Location: In person