First Presbyterian Church Richland
Job Title: Chancel Choir Director
Reports to: The Pastor/Head of Staff, with day-to-day supervision provided by the Director of Music.
Employment Status: Regular Part-Time Exempt
Mission: We are a fellowship of faith, a congregation of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), united in love and loyalty to Jesus Christ and each other. We are an inter-generational church, composed of people from diverse backgrounds, interests, and point of view Our caring congregation supports spiritual growth through worship, education, and service to our community and our world.
Job Summary: To illumine the Word through sacred choral music. To coordinate, rehearse and prepare the choir for participation in weekly church services and occasional special programs and services in which the great sacred music of the church is proclaimed, and to cultivate an ever-deepening appreciation of this art.
Essential Job Functions:
The Chancel Choir Director will be committed to the great music of the church and be willing to work as an integral part of the staff to foster good relations.
- Rehearsals and Sunday Services.
Work to improve the choral skills of the choir with vocal instruction during rehearsals.
If absent, communicate with the head of staff.
Work with the Director of Instrumental Music, plan and prepare music for special services or programs as established ( Note: these are rare). Extra rehearsals may be required. Additional monetary compensation for activities outside the scope of this agreement (e.g., weddings, funerals) may be arranged as appropriate through the presiding clergy.
- Additional Considerations:
Foster open communication with the choir, church staff, and the congregation.
Recruit, train, and retain volunteer choir members.
Act as a resource person for the Music and Worship Committee.
Attend Music and Worship Committee meetings, as appropriate.
With the Director of Instrumental Music, maintain and improve the church's music library, being sensitive to copyright laws.
Adhere to the high standards of professional behavior expected of all church and staff members.
- Prompt attendance at rehearsals. Notify Head of Staff Pastor and Director of Instrumental Music of unexpected absence or delays.
Requirements/Qualifications:
- A solid grasp of vocal and choral technique and the ability to teach it to the choir.
- Familiarity with sacred music of various periods.
- An understanding of the importance of music in the Christian tradition.
- Relevant musical training; a Bachelor of Music degree or equivalent experience .
- Demonstrated ability in adult choral direction.
- Ability to work with adult volunteers with various levels of experience, balancing fellowship with the achievement of musical excellence.
- Ability to work with others in a cooperative and helpful way.
Terms of Employment: This is a part time position, covering the nine-month period from September through late May. Three additional services are included in the Chancel Choir Director's basic pay package: Christmas Eve, Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday (and possibly Good Friday).
Pay: From $8,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Flexible schedule
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
Work Location: In person
