First United Methodist Church
Evanston, IL. 60202
Music Director/Organist Search
Description
First United Methodist Church, Evanston, announces its search for Music Director/Organist to lead the
congregation in celebration of God’s love – through music. First Church is a, vibrant, accepting and
reconciling congregation that welcomes all who seek God, inclusive of age, race, education, economic
status, sexual orientation and special needs. Music at First Church is inspired by the psalmist commands
to "sing a new song to the Lord, to praise God in the tabernacle with trumpets, harps and drums and to
dance before Yahweh with cymbals and flutes." The primary responsibility of this position is to lead the
congregation and staff in effective and joyous use of music in nurturing the community’s growing
relationship with God.
Requirements
This is a full-time position, with responsibilities for both directing the musical ensembles of the church
and organ responsibilities for Sunday worship and other worship services as required. Other
fulltime/part time configurations will be considered for the right candidate(s).
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Worship/Music Planning – Works collaboratively with the pastors and staff in planning and
coordinating a music ministry that is integral to the life of the congregation in worship services
and other activities held in the church and worship-in-the-park summer worship services.
Understands, values and incorporates a wide range of musical expression – choral, solo, and
instrumental, utilizing traditional, global and contemporary idioms.
Ensemble Leadership – Develops, teaches and directs the Chancel Choir, Hand Bell Choir, Gospel
Choir, Youth and Children’s Choirs and Jazz Ensemble with artistic and spiritual vision, with the
primary goal of leading worship creatively and effectively. Develops and administers additional
ensembles as needed on a temporary or seasonal basis.
Recruitment and Leadership – Recruits, resources, and promotes volunteers and paid leaders for
current and future music ensembles. Actively identifies and encourages the musical talents of
the congregation. Engages outside musicians and performers to enrich the congregation’s
musical life in accordance with approved budgets.
Organist – Serves as organist at worship services, and provides music for weddings and funerals.
Provides additional keyboard and vocal leadership as required. Provides for safety and security
of the organs and other church musical instruments.
Administrative – Manages the budget for the entire music program in conjunction with
appropriate committees. Oversees the use and maintenance of the organs, pianos and other
musical properties of the church. Maintains a current catalog of the music library and its
appropriate organization and storage. Purchases necessary music for the various ensembles,
soloists, cantors and instrumentalists in accordance with current publishing and copyright laws.
Participates in weekly and monthly staff meetings and planning sessions.
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Reporting relationships – The organist/music director reports directly to the Senior Pastor. Job
performance will be reviewed annually by the senior pastor with input and guidance from the
Staff Parish Relations Committee.
Organs – Two organs help lead music at First Church. Worship in the sanctuary features a fully
renovated Austin Organ of six divisions and 79 ranks – one of the largest instruments on
Chicago’s North Shore. In our Tittle Chapel a digital hybrid organ (new in 2014) utilizes old pipes
and new technology.
Minimum experience expectations:
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10 years similar experience in a church setting
Master’s degree (or higher) in music field required, Master of Sacred Music preferred
Salary & Benefits
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Salary is negotiable
Book/Music Allowance
Continuing Education Allowance
Single Coverage Health Insurance
Pension/Retirement Program
4 weeks paid vacation per year
Starting Date: August 1, 2016
To Apply: Please send a cover letter and resume to musicsearch@faithatfirst.com