Position Description: Music Director
Northwest Barrie United Church is seeking a part-time Music Director (choir director/pianist). We
are a growing church with a vibrant Sunday School and many active groups. We are open-minded in
our thinking, thoughtful and caring in our actions and have a more progressive approach to theology.
We welcome people of all backgrounds to share their faith journey with us. Our choir of 20 contains
many talented musicians and music is an integral part of the life and work of our church.
The Music Director is part of the ministry team at Northwest Barrie United Church. In order to have
a healthy ministry at Northwest Barrie, all members and affiliates need to be aware of the role and
tasks of the Staff, in this case, the Music Director.
Reporting Relationships
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The Music Director is considered a Staff member of Northwest Barrie United Church and is
accountable to the Unified Board through the Ministry and Personnel Team.
By virtue of the position and involvement in the worship experience at Northwest Barrie
United Church, the Music Director is a member of the Worship Team.
The Music Team is a sub-team of the Worship Team, and is there to assist the Music Director
in preparing and presenting music for worship, and for the enjoyment of the Northwest Barrie
community.
Responsibilities
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The Music Director and Minister shall consult and coordinate the total music ministry for the
congregation, keeping in mind the ministries of Word, Sacrament, Pastoral Care, Story, and
Prayer.
For special services (Anniversary Service, Comfort Service, etc.) there shall be a
collaboration of efforts with the Worship Team and the Minister, always seeking to provide a
full worship experience for all.
The Music Director:
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is responsible for the provision of music in worship services (playing piano, directing the
adult choir, youth music programs and related practices etc.)
keeps in mind the unique music competencies of the whole congregation: those who have
instrumental competencies, choirs, individuals, children, youth and young adults, and the kind
of music ministry that best expresses the faith in our congregation.
encourages creativity and a music ministry that is alive and inviting.
ensures all music selected is inclusive of people, reflects the many natures of God, and is
consistent with the theology of both the United Church of Canada and the congregation of
Northwest Barrie United Church.
If the Music Director is not able to be present for a particular Sunday, the Music Minister shall be
responsible for obtaining a replacement and will inform the Worship Team. An honorarium, as
determined by the Fee schedule, will be paid to the replacement by the Office Manager.
Compensation
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The Music Director shall receive a fee for services provided, as stated in the service
contract. This shall be reviewed annually by the Ministry and Personnel Team.
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The Music Director shall receive three weeks holiday per year.
For weddings and funerals in the church (if music leadership is requested), the Music
Director shall receive an honorarium that is determined by the schedule "Accommodation
Usage and Staff Rates" "F#14".
Northwest Barrie United Church shall underwrite the cost of music required for the music
ministry. With the help of the Music Director, an annual budget line for Music shall be
provided for the Worship Team.
Other Information
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Because music ministry involves children, the Music Director is required to have a Criminal
Records Check. Northwest Barrie United Church will pay for the check.
If there needs to be a renegotiation of these roles and tasks, they may be initiated by the
Music Director and/or the Worship Team or the Ministry and Personnel Team.
The Music Ministry covenant will be reviewed annually by the Ministry and Personnel Team
with a report given to the Unified Board.
The Director will keep a log, outlining the hours devoted to each aspect of their work. This
log is meant to be a guide, not a time sheet. It will be helpful when assessing where time may
need to be re-allocated to more essential activities, or where additional time may need to be
given to the position to meet growing needs.