04/09/2024
Acton/Stow churches are looking for a new director of music.
Director of Music Ministry
Apple Valley Catholic Community
Pastoral Team
________________________________________ Position Description
________________________________________
TITLE: Director of Music / Full-time Position
REPORTS TO: Pastor
Date: April 1, 2024
JOB PURPOSE: The Music Director’s primary responsibility is to plan and conduct music programs across the Apple Valley Catholic Community (“AVCC”) in support of religious services, parish events & programs at our two churches, in accordance with the Pastoral Plan. AVCC has a well-established music program with several ensembles across all age groups and ability levels. At AVCC, we believe that music is an essential part of the Catholic Liturgy; the two are inextricably intertwined. We are a mission oriented Catholic community serving the towns of Acton, Boxborough, Stow, and beyond through our two churches: St. Elizabeth of Hungary and St. Isidore.
The Music Director will function as an accompanist and ensure appropriate music coverage for Masses at all AVCC liturgies, both scheduled weekend Masses and weekday/weekend weddings and funerals. The work schedule shall be set in consultation with the Pastor. All AVCC staff members have a flexible work schedule to allow for a balance of daytime, evening, and weekend work, as required by church events.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Music Program Development
● Consult with the Pastor in determining the goals of the parish’s overall music program in concert with AVCC Mission.
● Select, prepare, and coordinate music selections and repertoire year-round for all weekend liturgies and other important liturgical celebrations using the full breadth of Catholic sacred music.
● Special liturgies including: Ash Wednesday, Stations of the Cross, Holy Week, Easter, Christmas, Pentecost, First Communions, Confirmations, Evening of Remembrance, Taizé Prayer, Holy Days of Obligation, and any other celebrations deemed appropriate by the Pastor/Administrator.
● Teach, rehearse, direct and accompany the Adult Choir, Teen Choir and Children’s Choir at all planned liturgies and all rehearsals.
● Supervise maintenance of equipment, i.e. pianos, keyboards, organ and audio equipment and music library as determined by Pastor.
● Develop new opportunities and actively recruit community members to participate in the music ministry of the Parishes.
● Work with the Cantors to develop their skills and presentation.
● Regularly attend meetings of the parish/collaborative liturgy committee.
Music Program Implementation
● Direct the planning and conducting of the music ensembles in accordance with seasonal and liturgical needs.
● Coordinate the schedule of music ensembles and individuals.
● Expand and enhance the breadth and depth of the choir’s range of music, with a goal of continuing to introduce new styles and genres when liturgically and pedagogically appropriate .
● Work with audio/visual team to ensure appropriate balance of sound in each building.
● Communicate liturgical music selections to congregation using physical (worship aids, sign board) and digital channels.
Business Functions
● Develop an annual budget for the AVCC Music Program, working closely with the Finance Manager. This budget will be submitted in early April. Music Director will submit a quarterly budget status or as requested by Finance Manager.
● Receive approval of the Finance Manager for any expenses of the music program beyond the approved annual budget.
● Code and submit all monthly expenses to the Finance Manager. Maintain music ministry budget monthly.
● Develop supplemental music programs (worship aids) to supplement music selection beyond Breaking Bread Hymnals.
● Coordinate Lector’s monthly schedule. Recruit new Lectors working closely with the Pastor and the Liturgical Coordinator.
● Ensure music licensing is in place in accordance with appropriate copyright and licensing laws.
QUALIFICATIONS:
● Minimum of 5 years prior experience in music ministry.
● Must have experience in directing choral ensembles.
● BA degree in music is preferred, or demonstrable equivalent experience
● Proficiency in piano is required; organ proficiency is preferred.
● Must have a comprehensive knowledge of Catholic Church teachings with particular emphasis in areas of liturgies and ceremonies and the role music plays in the liturgy.
● Must possess effective organizational and communications skills.
● Possess knowledge of both traditional and contemporary liturgical music.
● Knowledge of a wide variety of musical styles and the ability to teach these varying styles to the choirs.
● Must be a team player while working with the staff, choirs, and the Pastor.
PHYSICAL PERFORMANCE ELEMENTS:
● Ability to use a computer keyboard for up to 8 hours/day.
● Ability to sit for up to 8 hours/day.
● Ability to lift up to 20 pounds.
The duties and requirements described above are representative of those encountered during performance of the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
If interested, please send Resume and Cover Letter to [email protected]
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