Director of Music Ministries (Ridgefield, CT)
Job Title: Director of Music Ministries
Organization Name: First Congregational Church of Ridgefield
Organization Website: www.firstcongregational.com
Salary Range (optional):
Job Description:
First Congregational Church (FCC) of Ridgefield’s music is an essential
component of our worship experience. Music supports and enhances the
scriptures and sermons, and our history of providing extraordinary musical
offerings during worship and in special performances is well known in our
community.FCC is seeking a Director of Music Ministries who can lead our
congregation in this spiritual journey. We have a core group of dedicated and
talented musicians, singers and bell ringers who are ready to be led by a
vibrant, dynamic, and inspirational professional. Our hope is that through
this new leadership, the Director of Music Ministries will continue a musical
environment at FCC that will inspire and uplift those in the Congregation, as
well as help attract and retain new members. We welcome those applicants who
wish to bring their talents, aspirations, inspirations and dedication to
First Congregational Church of Ridgefield.
First Congregational Church of Ridgefield is an active faith community
located “by the fountain” on Main Street Ridgefield, CT. The Church was
founded in 1712 and has been a focal point of the town since it was
established. Ridgefield is located in Fairfield County, and Ridgefield is a
quintessential New England town. Ridgefield’s geography allows many
Ridgefield residents to commute to NYC for work. The position to be filled
is a half time position for an experienced choir director and organist. This
is an ideal position for a musician with other employment or time
commitments.
Our Mission Statement: We gather together, sustained by the Holy Spirit, to
worship God, to nurture people in faith, to grow as disciples of Christ, and
to minister to others.
Qualifications of Candidate
• Holds a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree, preferably in music, theology,
religious studies, or similar religious background and experience.
• Minimum of 3-5 years’ experience as Music Director/Minister of Music
leading church congregations.
• Proficient organist , capable of playing FCC’s three-manual
Wicks-Buchanan Organ (described in more detail at
http://www.firstcongregational.com/muscOrgan.shtml)
• Has a passion for music education and experience working with children,
young adults and adults.
• Excellent organizational, planning, interpersonal, and communication
skills.
• As a Christian, can assist ministers in selecting hymns and music that
enhance the worship and learning experience.
• Experience leading special music events (Christmas/Easter services,
Memorial services, etc.)
• Proven team player. Previous experience working with church staff, lay
leadership and volunteers is a must.
• Ability and experience in fully leading rehearsals and/or services
without assistance.
• Must possess adequate training or knowledge in music theory.
• A leader – must have excellent leadership, collaboration, and teaching
skills. Innovative.
Responsibilities
• Lead the congregation skillfully, in singing and making music, welcoming
people into God’s presence.
• Grow and lead the Adult Church Choir in its active leadership role in the
Sunday worship service.
• Be fully responsible for all music programs and ensembles at the Church.
• Understands the benefits of a variety of musical offerings, and is
willing to work with FCC’s Worship Band and other groups to provide the
varied music that the congregation supports.
• Manage the music budget for new sheet music, organ maintenance and other
required expenditures.
• Design creative worship services in close collaboration with the Ordained
Ministers, which will resonate across generations and artistic styles.
• Continue and expand the position of the Church and its musical talents
as a musical hub in the surrounding community.
• Coordinate the inclusion of special music that supports and enhances
worship experiences, such as the use of a jazz ensemble for Mardi Gras
Sunday, Celtic Cross (bagpipes) for Advent’s Hanging of the Green, etc.
• Lead existing musical groups - Chancel Choir, Celebration Ringers, and
Children’s Choirs.
• Support and enhance the internship program through working with the
Western Connecticut University students and their professors to develop the
musical talents of the four college students selected each year.
• Work closely with and be accountable to the Senior Minister.
• Work closely with the Church Music Ministry to lead, inspire and grow the
music talents of FCC.
• Maintain healthy working and personal relationships with all church
musicians, staff, and lay leadership.
Benefits
As a Part-Time position, vacation and sick days are pro-rated.
Contact Email: FCCMusicSearch@gmail.com