Music Director, First United Methodist Church (Middletown, CT)

First United Methodist Church is a welcoming congregation with a small but joyful core membership. We are looking to grow in our music ministry as we step into changing times. Our church currently has a blended worship style on Sundays, primarily utilizing the United Methodist Hymnal and The Faith We Sing. 

Responsibilities for the position are listed below with the implications of COVID-19 in mind.

Desired Start Date: July 26, 2020

Responsibilities:

Works in cooperation with the Pastor to plan all service music (includes Christmas/Ash Wednesday/Holy Week services). 

Oversees any musical activities that the church hopes to implement (agreed upon at the time of hire). Has a working knowledge of sound/lighting operation and current multimedia technologies. Collaborates with volunteers on planned use of these tools but does not run the sound board or slide show while leading worship.

Aside from special guests, the Music Director is the sole accompanist for worship using primarily piano, keyboard, and, if possible, guitar. Other musical instruments are welcome for special pieces, such as woodwinds, strings, or anything else at the musician’s disposal.

Does not lead choir rehearsals until it is safe to do so. Under COVID-19 guidelines, choral music is temporarily omitted from the worship service. However, volunteer soloists or duos may sing/play as long as the appropriate distance is kept between all parties.

Attends weekly or bi-monthly meetings with the Pastor for music planning, check-in, and future ideas. Assists in church outreach measures and other churchwide functions when possible.

Leads at least one worship service in person as soon as it is safe to gather in the building. Most likely leads a second, much simpler, service online via Zoom (to be determined at the time of hire).

Pays close attention to recommended and required practices of music-making during and after a global pandemic and adjusts plans accordingly.

Worship style: A blended worship style is appreciated and expected. This style includes contemporary Christian music and the Methodist heritage of hymnody.

Payment is $200 weekly, to be paid twice a  month. 

To apply, please email your resume and contact information to Sharon Riley at sharonriley1951@gmail.com.