Director of Music Ministries

The Director of Music Ministries, working with Church leadership, will set the vision for the music program of Seaside United Methodist Church and implement long and short-range plans for the entire music ministry. The Director of Music Ministries will provide leadership to all members of the music staff – both professional and volunteer.

Accountability

The Director of Music Ministries is accountable to the Pastor(s) and Staff Parish Relations Committee.

Duties and Responsibilities

· Oversee the music program of SUMC for all musical groups—children through adults. (Two Sunday Choirs, Sunday Praise Team, Instrumental Ensembles, Vocal Ensembles, Hand Bell Quartet, Harmony, Children’s Choir, Adult Hand Bells).

· Coordinate music selections and programs with other music ministry employees including Church Accompanist, Church Organist and any paid Praise Team musicians/vocalists.

· Secure substitutes for Accompanist, Organist or praise team musicians/vocalists when needed.

· Plan and prepare choirs/musicians for special musical programs (Easter, Christmas, etc.).

· Lead and conduct rehearsals and performances for the two traditional worship services.

· Lead and conduct rehearsals and performances for the contemporary worship service. Plan and facilitate weekly Praise Team rehearsals with the goal of leading the congregation during the contemporary service. Incorporate vocal and instrumental talents of the team to enhance the service.

· Provide musical consultation and support to special events.

· Identify, recruit and integrate new worshipers’ musical gifts into ministry activities.

· Integrate outside musical groups, performers and events into the Church musical program for enhancement of the overall music ministry of SUMC.

· Consult regularly with pastors and other staff members in planning communications, coordinating schedules and establishing goals for the music program and related activities.

· Maintain church music facilities by providing a professional environment for rehearsals, and performances including organizing musical scores, organizing Choir Room. Ensure musical equipment, robes, and instruments (organ, piano, hand bells, drums, etc.) are maintained and upgraded appropriately.

· Ensure equipment is available and choir rooms are set up and organized for maximum productivity at weekly rehearsals and performances.

· Attend Worship Committee and Church Council meetings representing the interest of the music ministry.

· Prepare yearly budget for full music ministry including all materials and expenses. Submit purchase orders and receipts to the Office Manager for all expenditures.

· Provide leadership and oversight for choir, praise team and ensemble activities when requested to perform in support of community needs and services.

· Provide musical support and consultation for funerals and weddings as requested and in compliance with Church guidelines.

· Maintain professional credentials through self-development, workshops and seminars.

· Manage and coordinate other special projects and perform other duties as directed by the Pastor(s) or SPRC.

Qualifications

· Bachelor’s Degree of Music Education or Bachelor of Music Performance

Certification, Music Ministry, preferred

· Minimum 5 years of music ministry in a church environment

· Experience producing and directing special events, musicals, and programs

· Demonstrated competency in playing organ/piano, vocal performance, and/or other instruments

· Experience leading and mentoring choirs/ensembles and praise bands, working with children and adults

· Proficient in computer technology

· Knowledge of traditional and contemporary worship practices and theological understanding and respect of the church sufficient to appropriately select music for contemporary and traditional worship

Working Conditions

The Director of Music Ministries is a Full-Time, Exempt position.

Hours vary from day to day and include evenings and attendance at all three Sunday morning worship services.

Travel to hospital/home visitations, workshops, meetings, etc.

Working with children under the “Safe Sanctuaries” Program

Physical Requirements

Lifting of equipment approximately 40-50 pounds-- hand bell cases, chairs, furniture, etc

Hearing and Sight abilities—Reading music and listening to musical arrangements

Traveling with equipment for community performances

Prolonged periods of standing, conducting choirs/ensembles, stress on shoulders, neck, arms

Decision-Making and Discretion

Work is performed under the general supervision of the Pastor(s) and SPRC who furnish only broad guidance and direction. The Director of Traditional Music sets the vision and goals for the entire music ministry. Daily activities are conducted with a high degree of independence. The Pastor(s) may be consulted on issues related to schedules, sensitivity, or controversy.

Direct Reports/Contacts

· Leadership and direct supervision to volunteers who provide coordination and management of various music ministry activities/programs.

· Leadership to Choir Officers

· Direct contact with Church leadership daily.

External Contacts:

· Community organizations where ensembles perform

· Local and guest musicians

· Brides

· Bereaved family members

· Others

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $70,000.00 - $80,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule
• Paid time off