Family Music Ministry Coordinator (New York, NY)

Date Posted: 
June 30, 2023
Organization Name: 
The First Presbyterian Church in the City of New York
Contact Email: 
mshake@fpcnyc.org
Salary Range: 
$45/hour, commensurate with experience
Job Description: 

Title: Family Music Ministry Coordinator

Purpose: Develop and direct an engaging, dynamic music ministry for children and families of the First Presbyterian Church in the City of New York. The Family Music Ministry Coordinator will use music as a vehicle to instill and broaden the faith of children, incorporating theological, educational, and musically appropriate methods and materials.

Accountability: Reports to the Director of Youth and Family Ministries, and Director of Music. Accountable to the Executive Minister.

Hours: 7 hours per week

 

RESPONSIBILITIES (including, but not limited to)

Music Ministry

  • Plan, develop, and direct a music program for children and families of the church.
    • Sundays
      • 11:15-11:25am: Church School welcome & gathering music (preK-6th grade)
      • 11:25-11:40am: 3-5 year old music [new for 2023-2024]
      • 12:00-12:30pm: 1st-6th grade Student Choristers [new for 2023-2024]
      • once a month; 9:30-10:15am: Baby and Toddler worship
    • Summer

§  Vacation Bible School; late July/early August; 5 days, 9:30am-12:00pm

  • Select appropriate and varied repertoire.
  • Plan for and direct participation of children in worship on an occasional basis in consultation with the Director of Music.
  • Collaboratively plan and direct occasional special or seasonal programs, including liturgical celebrations such as Christmas Eve, Holy Week, and other congregational events.
  • Coordinate accompanist needs with the Director of Music.
  • Function cooperatively within the structure of the Church and with the leadership of the Church School, including the Church School teachers and the Director of Family Ministry.

Parents and Families

  • Develop and foster excellent relationship with parents, Church School teachers, church members and participants in the children’s music ministry.
  • Recruit, train, educate, and motivate parents to assist in children’s music ministry.
  • Attend relevant planning activities with lay leaders and staff as determined with the Director of Youth and Family Ministries and the Director of Music.
  • Communicate effectively with parents, utilizing the Church website, Church and Family Ministry e-newsletters, and other publication platforms.
  • Cultivate supportive relationships; demonstrate pastoral interest in families.

Administrative

  • Work with the Director of Youth and Family Ministries, and Director of Music for purchases of music and supplies.
  • Maintain and prepare music, music folders, robes, and other relevant materials.
  • Meet regularly with the Director of Youth and Family Ministries, and Director of Music to coordinate communication with families; provide copy for various church communication vehicles.
  • Attend all-staff meetings and other related meetings as directed.

 

RELATIONSHIPS

  • Reports to the Director of Youth and Family Ministries, and Director of Music.
  • Accountable to the Executive Minister.
  • Relates to and consults with the pastoral staff on a regular basis to ensure that the Family Music ministry complements the overall musical style and direction of the church.
  • Works collaboratively with other church staff.

 

SKILLS AND EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

  • A minimum of 2-4 years children’s music or similar experience.
  • A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in music (music education or sacred music), and/or commensurate music education experience and/or training. Master’s degree preferred.
  • A musical style that complements worship as found at First Church.
  • A demonstrated commitment to children and music education.
  • A desire to create a meaningful, welcoming experience for families and children.
  • A knowledge and understanding of varied teaching methodologies and the ability to differentiate instruction based on student age, background, and ability.
  • An understanding and ability to demonstrate music fundamentals and good vocal techniques.
  • Demonstrated ability to motivate, encourage, and engage children in a musical forum within a community of faith.
  • Basic rehearsal keyboard proficiency is strongly preferred. Proficiency in another instrument(s) is a plus.
  • Ability to work independently, yet cooperatively with a broad spectrum of parents, staff and other church members within a volunteer environment.
  • Ability to incorporate input from committees, parents, and church leadership in flexible and creative ways.

 

EVALUATION

  • Annual discussion of contributions and development will be conducted by the Director of Youth and Family Ministries, and Director of Music.
  • The Personnel Committee, incorporating input from the Pastor/Head of Staff, will annually review the adequacy of compensation for this position.

 

HOURS

  • 7 hours per week - includes preparation, set up, teaching, and clean up on Sundays, and time on other days for planning, preparation, administrative tasks, and meetings as necessary.
  • 9-month position, typically September through May.

 

PAY

  •  Starting at $45.00 per hour, commensurate with experience.

 

OTHER

  • Opportunity to offer teaching – private or group – using church facilities based on availability. Examples include a music-oriented summer program, Kindermusik or Musikgarten classes.

 

TO APPLY

Submit letter of personal introduction and position interest, resume, and a link to teaching and/or conducting footage. Please include two professional references with email address and phone number.

Submit materials to: Michael Shake, Director of Music – mshake@fpcnyc.org. Please put Family Music Ministry Coordinator in the email subject line.                                                            

Link to organization website