Music Director / Liturgical Musician

MUSIC DIRECTOR AND LITURGICAL MUSICIAN

 POSITION PURPOSE: To provide music which is liturgically appropriate for parish liturgies and other designated celebrations.

Location: St. Theodore’s Church, Gates, NY

In this capacity, you will conduct the parish choir and lead the music at weekend and holy day liturgies. I ask that we keep office hours and maintain a presence on the campus of the parish, either in your office or in church. I also ask that you be available for funerals and weddings, as well as other liturgical celebrations such as first reconciliation. There is an expectation that you will work to increase the level of congregational singing at Mass.

The goals for the Program of the Music Ministries will be:

• To build and sustain congregational songs at Saturday and Sunday liturgies.
• To deepen the liturgical understanding and prayer of these assemblies through quarterly education sessions.
• To help to increase regular attendance at these liturgies through the quality of music.
• To recruit, train, and sustain three regular cantors.

DESCRIPTION OF LEVELS:

Music Director: The Music Director is responsible for planning and coordinating a music program.  The program may typically include several choirs/musician groups, and supervision and training of a number of musicians and cantors performing at various liturgies.  The Music Director is also involved in musical performance at liturgies.  The position requires considerable instrumental and vocal skills and strong knowledge of Roman Catholic Liturgy.  The Music Director typically performs and/or supervises most of the functions listed below under Typical Job Responsibilities.

LIST OF POSSIBLE JOB DUTIES SPECIFIC TO MUSIC DIRECTORS:

1. Collaborates with the pastor/pastoral administrator/priest sacramental minister and other staff in implementing the mission of the parish.  This is accomplished by participating in the comprehensive planning, implementing, and evaluation of the parish’s programs, goals, and objectives, with specific focus on music (in accordance with the liturgical documents and norms).  Serves as professional resource to the staff in the area of music.
2. Assures that music is provided for parish liturgies.  This is accomplished by selecting music and by recruiting and scheduling musicians for all Sunday and other major parish liturgical celebrations.
3. Coordinates the development and implementation of a music program for the parish.  This is accomplished by collaborating with the pastoral leader, pastoral associate (where appropriate) and liturgy committee members, in planning and organizing appropriate music for Sunday and seasonal liturgical celebrations.  Implements music program, including music selections and musicians.
4. Directs the choir(s) of the parish.  Recruits, trains, and supports these parish ministers of music, including the cantor/leaders of song, and choral groups.  Facilitates opportunities for parish ministers to develop and enhance their personal faith growth.  Is responsible for scheduling practices and assuring accompanists and music are available.  Is also responsible for planning new repertoire as well as fostering unity and coordination of the various musical groups.
5. Collaborates with the pastor/pastoral administrator and other staff members, e.g. Pastoral Associate, Priest Sacramental Minister, Liturgist, Catechetical Leader, Youth Minister, etc. to ensure appropriate music for all parish sacramental celebrations, and provides them with needed assistance.
6. Facilitates the participation of parish community in singing at liturgical celebrations.  Selects and develops participation aids for the congregation, and provides opportunities for congregation to participate through singing.
7. Provides assistance for parishioners needing music for weddings and funerals.  Develops and maintains resource list for organists, soloists, and other musicians available to perform at these functions.
8. Maintains a level of knowledge and skills required for the ministry.  This is accomplished by reading, attendance at workshops and conventions and regular preparation/practice.  Also participates in regional, Diocesan and National Professional organizations, as approved and as appropriate.

Classification: Part-Time Non-Exempt

Compensation:

• $24-$26 per hour
• $150 funeral per diem
• $200 wedding per diem

Standard Hours: 20 hours per week plus weddings, funerals, holidays, etc.

 Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Disability insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Applicants must submit a resume and three references.