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First Congregational Church Burlington, VT

Music Director

First Congregational Church Burlington, VT, Burlington, Vermont, us, 05405


Job Summary

We seek a creative and faith-centered Music Director to lead a vibrant music program that contributes to the ministry and growth of our church. The successful applicant will be skilled at creating sacred space through music, cultivating the musical gifts of our congregation, inviting participation from the wider community, and collaborating as a member of the ministerial team.

About Us

Located in the heart of downtown Burlington, Vermont, First Congregational Church (FCCB) is an open and affirming congregation of the United Church of Christ with about 300 members. We believe God is calling us to be a radically inclusive community that celebrates the sacred worth of all persons as unique individuals made in the image of God. Our music program was built on a strong classical foundation and has been evolving to include a greater diversity of musical styles and genres. We are excited about new possibilities for worship and service.

Music is a vital part of our worship. In leading congregational singing, conducting our choirs, incorporating instrumental music, and offering new avenues for creativity in worship, the Music Director sets the tone and creates the mood by which people’s experience of God is enhanced through music. Even beyond worship, musical participation through a variety of settings and experiences is important in the life of our congregation.

Regular Responsibilities:

Provide leadership and joy in a ministry of music that honors our faith tradition across a variety of styles and genres

Collaborate with ministerial team to plan music for weekly Sunday worship

Prepare and lead weekly adult choir rehearsal

Conduct choral ensembles and lead music for worship

Direct and grow the choir(s) and encourage the musical gifts of the church

Cultivate congregational singing and musical participation as an essential component of faith expression

Coordinate with music staff including pianist/organist and children’s, youth, and bell choir directors

Work collaboratively with a church staff that also includes Lead Minister, Director of Congregational Life, Faith Formation Director, and administrative staff

Long-Term Development Projects:

Develop strategies for incorporating music and singing into online worship services

Work with ministerial team to develop our alternative worship offering

Work with the A/V team to ensure good quality sound and visuals both in the sanctuary and online (livestreaming)

Propose and manage a budget for new music acquisitions and hiring guest musicians

Maintain and expand the church's music library

Supervise the acquisition and maintenance of the church's musical instruments

Attributes and Talents:

Commitment to Christian faith and the mission and vision of FCCB

Excellent interpersonal skills and a sense of humor

Ability to lead and conduct choral ensembles with diverse skillsets and backgrounds

Desire and ability to work collaboratively with professional and volunteer singers and musicians

Knowledge and appreciation of music from a variety of genres and generations

Experience in ensemble/band coordination and leadership

Understanding of best practices for vocal health and development

Rate and Hours:

10-15 hours a week – depending on the season

$40-50/hour depending on experience

Availability: Thursday evening rehearsals (7:00-8:30pm), Sunday morning preparation and worship (8:00am-11:00am) plus planning and preparation for special services including Christmas Eve, Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, and Easter Sunday.

FCCB’s Musical Instruments include:

Sanctuary organ (Russell organ of 3 manuals and 50 ranks)

6 pianos including a Steinway Grand Piano and Story and Clark Grand Piano

Schulmerich and Malmark handbells and chimes

For inquiries or to apply:

Submit a cover letter and resume to:

FCCBMusicSearch@firstchurchburlington.org

or mail to:Music Director SearchFirst Congregational Church of Burlington, United Church of Christ38 S. Winooski Ave.Burlington, VT 05401

Job Type: Part-time

Expected hours: 10 – 15 per week

Benefits:

Flexible schedule

Paid time off

Ability to Commute:

Burlington, VT 05401 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

Burlington, VT 05401: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location:

In person

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