Music Director (Danbury, CT)

Seeking a Director of Music to lead the musical life of our congregation as an integral part of worship. Primary duties include playing the organ and/or piano during services and providing administrative coordination of the choir and other musical activities of the church. The church’s mission is to be a welcoming family of disciples who seek to strengthen our faith and allow the light of Christ to guide us as we serve our community. Candidates must have a heart for the church, the ability to relate positively to a wide variety of people in a sensitive and caring manner, and effectively manage volunteers. Candidates must possess strong keyboard skills on organ and/or piano for playing service music, including solo presentations, accompanying hymns, and accompanying / leading choral anthems and soloists.

Candidates must have strong administrative, organizational, and communication skills and the ability to meet weekly deadlines. The ideal candidate will be familiar with a variety of musical and worship styles, and will have knowledge of the Christian liturgical seasons and corresponding music. Specific responsibilities are listed below.

Please submit a letter of interest, resume, video/audio excerpts, and two to three references to: Loren Euvrard at lkeuvrard@gmail.com The United Methodist Church of Danbury 5 Clapboard Ridge Road Danbury, CT 06810 (203) 743-1503

Either electronic or mailed submissions are welcome.

1. The Music Director is a worship leader who works to develop the musical skills and spiritual experience of the choir and congregation. The Music Director invites the participation of the congregation and encourages choir members and other musicians to develop their musical talents as an offering of praise and service to God.
2. The Music Director works with the Pastor and the Music & Worship Committee to plan the music for the 10:30 am Sunday services, the 10:00 am Sunday services in the summer, and all other special services during the liturgical year, including Christmas Eve, Ash Wednesday, and Holy Week services.
3. It is important that the Music Director and the Pastor work together to provide a safe and nurturing environment for spiritual growth in the church
4. Attends meetings of the Music & Worship Committee.
5. Plays the organ/piano at the Sunday services and other special services mentioned above.
6. Rehearses and directs the Chancel choir. During the months of September-mid-June, rehearsals are typically one weeknight (currently Thursday) and Sunday morning before the 10:30 service. If required, accompanies and rehearses with any Christmas Pageant participants.
7. Work with the Pastor and the Music & Worship Committee to propose and manage the annual music budget.
8. UMCD expects that the Music Director will spend approximately 10 hours a week from September - mid-June planning, meeting, practicing, rehearsing, creating and administering the music program and playing for worship. While the choir does not meet during the summer, UMCD expects the Music Director to use this time creatively to plan the musical program for the next season. In addition, the Music Director will recruit and encourage small group or solo performances of church members or outside performers during the summer and throughout the year.
9. It is required that the Music Director complete the United Methodist Church Safer Sanctuaries training course and receive due certification upon completion.

The Music Director’s payment will be $320/week for music services provided. Social Security and income taxes will be withheld.