Music Director Job Description
First Presbyterian Church, Joplin, MO
June 15, 2024
General Job Description: The Music Director is responsible for the church's music ministry under the supervision of the Pastors and with guidance from the Worship and Music Committee. Our goal is to enhance the congregation's worship experience through musical offerings to God. The ideal Music Director will be open-minded to multiple genres of Christian music.
All duties should be performed keeping this paraphrased guidance from the Presbyterian Book of Order in mind:
Singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs is a vital and ancient form of prayer. Singing engages the whole person and helps unite Christ's body in common worship. The congregation is the church’s primary choir; the purpose of rehearsed choirs and other musicians is to lead and support the congregation in singing prayer. Special songs, anthems, and instrumental music may also interpret the Word and enhance the congregation’s prayer. Furthermore, many of the worship service elements may be sung. Music in worship is always to be an offering to God, not merely an artistic display, source of entertainment, or cover for silence.
Duties:
1. Direct and rehearse choirs (including an adult and handbell choir).
2. Timely selection of anthems and special music, allowing for advanced preparation and rehearsal.
3. Recruit and develop new choir members.
4. Arrange for substitutes as needed.
5. Play at special services (weddings, funerals, etc.) as available for a negotiated fee.
6. Participate in preparing the music budget.
7. Coordinate visiting/guest musicians for worship.
8. Plan for upcoming weekly music services with the church organist.
9. Accept and perform other responsibilities as requested by the Pastor.
Requirements:
- Education: Degree in Music or equivalent experience.
- Ability to lead/direct choirs.
- Good organizational and communication skills.
- Willingness to learn tenets of Presbyterian/Reformed worship.
- Ability to work as a team player in a ministry setting.
- Punctual attendance at rehearsals and services.
Desired:
· Demonstrated ability to play the piano and/or organ.
· Willingness to instruct and direct the congregation in hymns and liturgy.
· Desire to find ways to work with all age levels.
Hours of Work:
- 48 weekly Sunday services per year.
- Approximately 8 hours per week that includes:
- Weekly Sunday worship (30 minutes before and after the service).
- Weekly choir rehearsals (scheduled by the Music Director).
- Additional hours for weekly preparation and special services.
Salary and Vacation:
- $6,000-12,000 per year (with possible merit and cost-of-living increases).
- Salary dependent upon qualifications and experience.
- Four weeks of vacation (including 4 Sundays), available after 90 days of employment.
Terms of Employment:
- Hired by the Pastors.
- Employees are “employees at will.”
- No unemployment or health insurance provided.
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $6,000.00 - $12,000.00 per year
Expected hours: 5 – 8 per week
Benefits:
- Flexible schedule
- Paid time off
Ability to Relocate:
- Joplin, MO 64801: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person