Church Organist / Music Director – Stable Weekend Role

About the Company

Cathedral of the Rockies, a vibrant and inclusive First United Methodist Church located in the heart of Boise, Idaho, has been a cornerstone of spiritual life and community engagement for over a century. We are committed to fostering a welcoming environment where individuals can grow in faith, serve others, and experience the transformative power of God’s love. Our rich history is complemented by a forward-looking vision, embracing diverse worship styles while honoring traditional roots. Music plays a central role in our worship and community life, enriching services and inspiring congregants.

Job Description

We are seeking a dedicated and talented Church Organist / Music Director to lead and enhance our weekend worship services. This stable part-time role is crucial for maintaining the high quality of our music program, providing inspiring organ accompaniment, and directing our vocal and handbell choirs. The ideal candidate will be a skilled musician with a deep understanding of sacred music, a passion for congregational worship, and the ability to collaborate effectively with clergy and volunteers.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as principal organist for all scheduled weekend worship services (typically Saturday evening and Sunday morning/afternoon services), as well as special services throughout the liturgical year (e.g., Christmas, Easter).
• Lead and direct the adult choir, youth choir (as needed), and handbell choir, including planning rehearsals, selecting anthems, and preparing them for worship.
• Collaborate with the pastoral staff to plan and coordinate all musical elements of worship services, ensuring alignment with scriptural themes and liturgical seasons.
• Provide accompaniment for congregational hymns, anthems, and other liturgical music.
• Maintain and oversee the care of the church's pipe organ and other musical instruments, coordinating any necessary tuning or repairs.
• Recruit, mentor, and foster the musical development of choir members and other volunteer musicians.
• Manage the music budget, including purchasing music, supplies, and instruments.
• Participate in staff meetings and contribute to the overall spiritual and communal life of the church.

Required Skills

• Exceptional proficiency in organ performance, with a strong understanding of church liturgy and hymnody.
• Demonstrated experience in conducting vocal and/or handbell choirs.
• Extensive knowledge of sacred music repertoire across various periods and styles.
• Ability to improvise and adapt music as needed during services.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail for music planning and coordination.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills for working with clergy, staff, and volunteers.
• A deep personal faith and commitment to the mission and values of the United Methodist Church.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Music, Organ Performance, Church Music, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience as an Organist or Music Director in a church setting.
• Experience with various worship traditions and musical styles within Protestant liturgy.
• Proficiency with music notation software (e.g., Finale, Sibelius).
• Certification from the American Guild of Organists (AGO) or equivalent professional body.

Perks & Benefits

• Opportunity to make a significant spiritual and artistic impact within a supportive community.
• Access to a well-maintained, historic pipe organ and other quality musical instruments.
• Professional development opportunities and continuing education support.
• A stable weekend schedule, allowing for other professional or personal pursuits during the week.
• Collaborative and welcoming work environment with dedicated staff and congregants.
• Meaningful work that directly contributes to the spiritual growth and enrichment of others.

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