Organist/Pianist (Grafton, MA)

The Church Organist/Pianist works with the Choir Director and reports to the Music Committee to usher and lead the congregation in a spirit of worship, accompany the church choir, and support the worship service with appropriate musical offerings. This is a part time position (5 hours per week).

Responsibilities

• Coordinate with the Choir Director and the Pastor in planning, preparing, and playing of music appropriate to each service of worship
• Prepare appropriate music for annual special services including, but not limited to, Ash Wednesday, Good Friday, and Christmas services
• Prepare sufficiently for optimum performance on the organ or piano for both rehearsals and worship
• Accompany weekly rehearsals of the Church Choir
• Lead the congregation’s singing of hymns and responses
• Accompany soloists in worship as needed
• Assist with bulletin proofreading as available
• Attend staff meetings, worship meetings, and special worship planning sessions throughout the year
• Play for special gatherings of the church when requested by the Pastor
• Provide appropriate substitutes for worship services or special events when not available
• The Organist/pianist possesses the right of first refusal to play for funerals and weddings

Skills and Qualifications

• Attested musical skills on the organ and piano
• Strong team player with the staff and congregation
• Minimum of 2-4 years’ experience in a church-related setting preferred
• Bachelor’s degree in organ or piano performance preferred
• Ability to sight-read preferred
• Ability to communicate well and in a friendly manner with the pastors, worship and music committee members, fellow employees, church choir, praise and worship team, and members of the congregation

The Congregational Church of Grafton, U.C.C. is a church of 100 members. We have a good quality Wicks pipe organ, a Mason & Hamlin grand piano, a two-octave set of hand-bells, and a small but committed choir. Talented youth in the congregation also participate in the adult choir, or with instruments, and we want someone to encourage and utilize these individuals. We have a good music library. The church provides a budget for proper care of the organ and pianos located in the church, including biannual organ and piano tunings and any necessary repairs. The Organist/Pianist shall report to the Music Committee concerning the condition and maintenance needs of the organ and pianos, including tunings, repairs, etc.

We are informed by the United Church of Christ Musicians Association, Inc. and the American Guild of Organists in putting together the salary package, expected duties, references and background checks.

The position is 5 hours per week, with a salary of $8,000 and 4 Sundays paid vacation per year. The Organist shall have permission to conduct private organ lessons and make the organ available to qualified students.

Qualified applicants should email a resume and cover letter to:
Bob McLean, Chair
Music Committee
Congregational Church of Grafton
mclean.rr@gmail.com