Choral Director

The First Presbyterian church of Chicago is a multiracial, multicultural and multigenerational congregation of faith in the heart of Woodlawn. Through our long history, we have sustained a mission oriented to racial justice, education, and community development. We are in a season of redevelopment, which means we have the liberty to experiment with new programs and partnerships and to try new things in worship.

We are interested in hiring a Choral Director who can bring creativity and energy to the role.

Position Summary

The Choral Director is responsible for leading, organizing, and nurturing the music ministry in a way that reflects the doctrine and mission of the church. Rooted in the gospel and African American worship traditions, the ideal candidate will be a spiritually mature Christian, a servant-leader heart, and a strong background in vocal and instrumental church music. This individual will work collaboratively with the congregation and leadership to shape a vibrant, Spirit-filled worship life across all ages and services.

Responsibilities

• Meet with the Pastor weekly to discuss themes of worship and recommend music to complement those themes.
• Lead music for Sunday services and other church functions (funerals, weddings, revivals, etc.).
• Provide piano accompaniment for choir and congregational singing, vocal instruction and support to choir members and soloists.
• Work with Church members who are willing to engage their musical talents in worship.
• Teach new songs and prepare seasonal programs 9e.g., Easter Cantata, Christmas programs)
• Lead or coordinate children’s choir or multigenerational ensembles as needed.
• Incorporate creative arts (e.g., dance, drama) in worship planning where appropriate.
• Work with Pastor and Church elders to bring in local musicians for “special music”.

Administration and Coordination

• Maintain a published rehearsal and performance schedule for the choir and worship teams.
• Maintain a library of church music and ensure compliance with copyright regulations.
• Plan and schedule seasonal and specific music opportunities in collaboration with church leadership.
• Ensure the choir adheres to codes of conduct and nurtures a positive, respectful group
• Recommend or arrange maintenance of musical instruments.
• Provide regular written updates and communications to the Personnel Committee.
• Submit bi-weekly time sheets and adhere to the approved hours per week.

The following are qualifications and skills for an ideal candidate:

• Interest in engaging redevelopment of worship, especially through experimenting with various forms of liturgy and diverse musical traditions.
• Ability to lead music fluently from a variety of traditions and genres, especially Black and African Gospel, folk spirituals, and traditional hymn repertoire.
• Ability to read standard musical notation.
• Experience organizing and leading a choral group (adult and/or youth)
• Experience leading worship in a spiritual or religious setting.

Compensation:

• Compensation will be commensurate to experience, not less than $26/hour.
• Use of the church sanctuary, chapel, parlor, and music room as space for rehearsal, recitals, recordings, and/or offering lessons.
• Additional income through occasional services, including weddings and funerals.
• Flexible working arrangements during the week.