Principal Organist/Pianist

Grace Church is committed to building an inclusive, diverse, equitable, and accessible faith community. If you are excited about this position, but lack any of the job qualifications or requirements in the description, we encourage you to consider still applying. 

Position Description

 *Grace Church is committed to fostering an inclusive and flexible work environment. In our pursuit of a part-time position, we welcome applications from single individuals as well as those interested in a job-sharing arrangement. The job-sharing format can be tailored collaboratively between selected candidates and church leadership. The remuneration for these positions will be determined accordingly, reflecting the negotiated allocation of duties. We embrace diversity and value creativity in structuring this role to ensure it aligns with both the church's needs and the unique circumstances of our applicants. 

Please indicate your interest in job-sharing on your application.

 Preferred Qualifications 

● A Bachelor’s Degree in Music that includes college-level organ instruction, or Colleague Certification through the American Guild of Organists (CAGO). 

● Experience playing organ in worship. 

● Excellent sight-reading capabilities on organ and piano. 

● Confidence performing a wide variety of styles and periods at the organ and piano. 

Primary Responsibilities and Duties

 ● Prepare and play: 

     ○ 2 regularly-scheduled Sunday morning worship services. (year-round) 

     ○ Weekly Thursday evening rehearsals (7-8:30PM) of the Chancel Choir under the direction of the Choir Director. (August to June) 

     ○ Special worship services and related rehearsals (Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter Eve, Easter, multiple Christmas Eve services, All-Saints major work, Spring Choral Service and additional special events with notice). 

● Select music as needed for the prelude, offertory or other special music, and postlude at regular services, in keeping with the theme and style of worship. 

● Provide recommendations to, or assist Pastors with, hymn selection as requested. 

● Lead congregational singing and accompany soloists in worship. 

● Arrange for qualified substitute organists to serve in case of personal time off, vacation, or when unavailable for funerals or weddings. 

● Reserve the right of first refusal to serve at any wedding or funeral held in the church, subject to the terms of the Compensation Schedule for this position. 

● Oversee the care, maintenance, and usage of the organ and sanctuary piano in consultation with the Music Coordinator and Board of Trustees, subject to the church budget. 

Core Competencies 

● Technical Expertise: Demonstrates skill in playing organ and piano, using prepared music, sight-reading, and improvising. Comfortable in a range of musical genres and styles from diverse cultures and worship sources, including (but not limited to) traditional, gospel, classical, and jazz. Continues to develop musical skills. 

● Liturgical Knowledge: Is familiar with the organization of the liturgical calendar and is confident selecting music appropriate for each worship service. 

● Interpersonal Skills: Establishes good working relationships with others, including staff, members of the congregation, and other constituencies. Works independently as well as collaboratively with the Choir Director, Senior Pastor and music staff. Works effectively with volunteers who have diverse backgrounds and varying musical abilities. 

● Verbal & Written Communication: Writes clearly and succinctly. Uses technology where appropriate to enhance communication and organization. Familiarity with Google Workspace is ideal and Smartphone connectivity is preferred. 

Reporting Relationships 

The Organist reports to the Senior Pastor and works in collaboration with the Choir Director and the Music Coordinator. Terms of employment are overseen by the Staff Parish Relations Committee. 

Application Requirements 

Please send a cover letter, a resume including significant organ repertoire performed, three references, and digital videos or links to livestreams (with timestamp references) of the following to Ms. Jill Rye, Chair, Principal Organist Search Committee: jill.rye@peopleofgrace.org 

1. At the organ: A hymn including an introduction and one modulation *Please use manuals and pedals. 

2. At the organ: A work by J.S. Bach 

3. At the organ: A romantic or contemporary composition 

4. At the piano: A choral anthem including choir 

We invite candidates of any race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or age to apply.