Job Description

Hartzell Memorial UMC

Chicago, Illinois 60616

Part Time

The Task of the Music Director

To lead people of all ages in the congregation in music-making experiences so that they:

- May grow in understanding the Christian faith and music's role in that faith.

- Will develop and strengthen their relationship with God.

- Will become better equipped for daily living as faithful Christian disciples.

- Will gain basic music skills so that they may effectively serve the church as music leaders.

Responsibilities of the Music Director

1. To coordinate the planning and implementation of a comprehensive music ministry for the congregation and community.
2. To continually learn both about music and about the people in the congregation and community so that you can plan music appropriate to their needs.
3. To be familiar with the overall goals the congregation has set for itself, how these goals influence its music programs, and how these goals may be extended.
4. To keep the congregation informed about the music needs of people, the goals of the music program, and the resources available that will help the congregation reach these goals.
5. To promote the spiritual life of the congregation and its members through music ministry.
6. To be responsible for guiding the work of the music program through the year; and if there is a music committee, planning its agendas and presiding at its meetings.
7. To plan, at least quarterly, for worship with the pastor, musicians (i.e., children's choir leader, worship committee, etc.), and others who may be responsible for planning and leading worship. This cooperative planning, led by the pastor, will outline all worship services, including the use of Scripture, music, and special services including the annual presentations of “The Messiah” by Handel & “Seven Last Words of Christ” by DuBois.
8. To develop and support effective musical leadership in the church, along with the help of the worship chair and team leaders.
9. To link with organizations, people, and resources in and beyond the congregation that are concerned about church music.

10.To become aware of the literature and materials available that are related to music.

1. To take part in and represent the concerns of music on the various boards of the local church and the charge conference.
2. To lead the congregation and choir in worship at the organ/piano for the weekly 10:30 am service on Sundays.

Skills and Interests Helpful in this Job

1. Ability to listen to and communicate with people of all ages and musical backgrounds.
2. Interest in a wide range of musical experiences.
3. Ability to work with volunteers and committees.
4. Skills for researching music issues and programs related to people in the congregation and community.
5. Skills for researching issues involved in worship.
6. Sensitivity to what makes worship effective.
7. Respect and care for all of God’s People, in addition to maintaining a healthy and safe work environment.

Our Next Music Director

1. Will be a team leader and team player, helping this congregation grow in its rich heritage of traditional music, while also incorporating new genres to enhance our praises to God, and to bridge the gap in our community.
2. Will be given a salary starting at $18,000 annually for 10-15 hours for a candidate that is skilled in both piano and organ performance, in addition to choral conducting.
3. Be able to plan weekly worship services in advance, having sensitivity to cultural awareness, and plan according to the liturgical calendar.
4. Be able to lead the 10:30 am service, direct the choir, and operate under the power of the Holy Spirit.
5. Lead choir rehearsals weekly for the sanctuary choir (currently Saturday afternoons at 1 pm; can be changed).
6. Have first refusal for all funerals, weddings, other services.
7. Lead the annual presentations of the “Messiah” and “Seven Last Words,” as principal conductor.
8. Manage the music budget.
9. Maintain a safe and healthy working relationship with all members, sta, and children, in addition to taking Safe Sanctuary training.

What instruments does the church currently use?

The church has two organs, and six pianos.

Sanctuary Organs: 1987 Allen ADC 3100, Drawknob Console with 27 stops, Two Manuals and Pedals.

1953 Hammond C-2 organ, Drawbars, Two Manuals & Pedal.

Sanctuary Piano: Yamaha Electric; In process of obtaining a Baby Grand.

Chapel: Upright Hamilton

Choir Room: 1930s Baldwin Grand Piano

Fellowship Hall: 1940s Baldwin Baby Grand

Two additional upright pianos are located in two classrooms on the upper level of the church building.

When will this position start?

We hope to have a new music director in place by October of 2024. Please send your letter of interest, music samples, and C. V. to pastordj@hartzell.church by September 10th, 2024.

Organization: Hartzell Memorial UMC

Contact: Rev. D. Josiah Montgomery

Closing Date: 09/10/2024

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