Music Director

Church Music Director Job Description

St Laurence Anglican Church is seeking a dedicated Church Music Director for a part time position (8-10 hours per week). The Church Music Director is responsible for developing, coordinating, and leading the church’s music program, including the planning and execution of Sunday services, special events, and music rehearsals. Our ideal candidate has a deep understanding of Christian and Anglican worship and the ability to blend both ancient and new music into our services. They seek to engage the congregation in a meaningful worship experience that reflects tthe personality, beliefs and ‘soul’ of that community. The successful applicant would become an integral member of St. Laurence Church and help support the spiritual growth and journey of this curious and welcoming community.

Responsibilities

• Plan music for Sunday services and special events in collaboration with the priest. Work with the priest to plan the seasons of the liturgical year and to choosing appropriate liturgical music. Coordinate hymns with church seasons and with weekly lectionary readings.
• Lead congregational music on Sundays and encourage the congregation’s participation in singing and worship.
• Respect the musical character and taste of the St. Laurence community and choose music and hymns that align with the vision and values of the community. When reasonable, use inclusive language or adjust lyrics as needed. Introduce new hymns and sung liturgies that will enhance worship.
• Direct and lead the church choir and musicians in rehearsals and performances. Provide music education and training to choir members and musicians.
• Recruit and train new choir members and musicians. Lead weekly pre-service practice with singers or players who are helping to lead music. Lead Thursday evening choir practices during Advent and Lent leading up to the high feast days/services of Christmas Eve, Holy Week and Easter, and for other high days as needed.
• Plan and implement an evening choral Christmas or Advent service.
• Potential: to continue tradition of 3x/year evening Taizé services. Build team to help with themes, chants and readings. Lead any needed practices in preparation for the services.
• Arrange for guest musicians or special music when necessary.
• Ensure all musical instruments and equipment are properly maintained.
• Provide appropriate music when required for weddings and funerals (on a fee-for-service basis) or arrange supply musicians.
• Maintain and manage the church’s music library and equipment.
• Write report for the Annual Meeting of Parishioners.

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a Music Director, preferably in a church setting.
• Degree in Music or a related field is preferred, or a combination of education, training and experience deemed equivalent. Demonstrated proficiency as a pianist and choral conductor required. Organ proficiency desired, but not crucial.
• Proficient in sight reading (piano and singing).
• Strong knowledge of basic hymnody/Contemporary Christian music sources.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills.
• Ability to work with diverse personalities and cultures, and in team situations.
• Experience leading and proficiency in coordinating musical ensembles/choirs.
• Experience teaching and encouraging/motivating volunteer musicians and choristers with a wide range of musical competency and training
• Flexibility to work during weekends, evenings, and special events.
• Understand licensing and copyright requirements.
• Current Police check required.

Compensation and Benefits

• Renewable annual contract
• Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as church budget considerations.
• Holidays: 3 Sundays off, with compensation. Music director will find replacement musicians.
• Professional development opportunities

Application Instructions

Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience

• By mail: St Laurence Anglican Church, 5940 Lakeview Dr. SW Calgary, AB T3E 5S8
• By email: ***email_hidden***, subject line "Music Director Search"