Music Director

We are looking for a music director who embraces the idea that music embodies an important part of the ministry of our church. We have a small but skilled choir that brings their souls to practice and the services, in order to share with the congregation the transforming and healing power of music.

First Parish Church of Kingston, Massachusetts, seeks a Music Director. The position is part-time and requires a commitment of an average of 10 hours a week from mid-August through mid-June. The salary range is $13,000 to $15,000, commensurate with experience and proficiency. Candidates are invited to learn more about the Congregation and Unitarian Universalist theology at our website at /

The Music Director leads and performs music in worship services and other congregational programs. The Music Director:

Directs small, musically experienced choir in weekly rehearsal and performance for Sunday worship

Serves as accompanist (piano and organ) for all worship services.

Recruits volunteer choir members, professional soloists and other guest musicians.

Recruits and supervises vocal intern(s) as needed

Plans the music schedule with the Minister for the year including special services such as Christmas Eve, Music Sunday, and fundraising events

Cultivates congregational participation in music, in pursuit of a dynamic and diverse music program that fosters maximum participation from the congregation, including children.

Participates in meetings with Music and Worship Committees, and staff.

Reports to and is supervised by the Minister in a collaborative relationship that includes weekly planning meetings.

Manages the maintenance of the piano, organ, other instruments and the music library

Plans music budget with the music committee

Maintains current membership in AUUMM and abides by its professional code of practice.

Follows the policies and procedures outlined in First Parish’s Personnel Policy Manual.

We seek a creative, talented, energetic musician who inspires joyful music making. The ideal candidate will have many of these professional and personal characteristics:

Experience as a music or choir director

Advanced keyboard skills and performance experience; other instruments, including organ, or voice a plus

Knowledge across many genres of music

Ability to build rapport with congregation members.

Appreciation of different perspectives and willingness to seek common ground

Organized and proactive work style, with the ability to adapt as new challenges arise

Self-motivated to work independently, but also comfortable collaborating in team settings

Degree in music or equivalent experience strongly preferred

Right of first refusal to coordinate music for weddings, memorials, etc.

Membership dues paid in Association of UU Music Ministries (https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).)