Organist

Job Description

Principle Function:

The organist is a key member of the Music Ministry staff whose primary purpose is to provide organ and piano music for all traditional worship services, and to accompany the chancel choir during rehearsals.

Reporting structure:

Reports directly to the Senior Pastor and Staff Pastor Parish Relations Committee

Educational Requirements:

B.A. in music (with emphasis on organ performance preferred, but not required). Equivalent experience in church music settings may be considered.

Job Requirement:

-Possess a theological understanding of church music, a  knowledge of classical organ repertoire and a familiarity with a wide range of sacred choral music.

-Have a minimum of two years of experience in accompanying church choirs and other musicians.

-Demonstrate proficiency in organ and piano performance and commitment to excellence in musical performance.

-Embody a lifestyle committed to the missionary visions of Epworth UMC.

-Be accountable and dedicated to working in a team environment alongside pastors, staff and volunteer laity.

-Possess strong communication and interpersonal skills needed in collaborative work.

Responsibilities:

-Provide musical accompaniment for traditional worship services on Sunday mornings as well as those special weekday services that are a part of the normally accepted services of the Liturgical Calendar Year, to include, Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Christmas Eve.

-Accompany the Chancel Choir and soloists during rehearsals and performances.

-Select appropriate prelude, postlude and offertory music in collaboration with Pastors and Director of Music Ministry and communicate these selections to church office staff for bulletin preparation.

-Participate in mid-week chancel choir rehearsals (Wednesday evenings)

-Maintain the organ and arrange for its tuning and repairs as needed.

-As available, play for memorial services and weddings at Epworth (by contract with families involved)

Salary:

Negotiable and approved annually by the SPPRC for inclusion in the operational budget approved by the Church Council.   

Hours:

 Salaried, part time (requiring approximately 10 hrs/wk) including Sunday Mornings and Wednesday evening choir practice.

Benefits:

Four weeks of vacation per year.

Evaluation:

Annual evaluation by Sr. Pastor, Director of Music Ministry, and SPPRC.