First Parish in Needham, Unitarian Universalist 23 Dedham Ave

Needham, MA 02492

Date Posted:

September 04, 2026

Region:

Eastern Massachusetts Category:

Artistic/Programming Type:

Part-Time

Assistant Music Director/Apanist Description:

First Parish in Needham, Massachusetts, a Unitarian Universalist congregation, is seeking a Apanist/Assistant Music Director to provide musical leadership and support for worship services and other congregational activities that include music. We seek an upbeat, creative person with strong musical and interpersonal skills, who can work with parishioners with a broad range of musical talents (from professional level to "non-musicians") and interests (from early music to world, folk, pop, bluegrass, and other traditions). The Apanist/Assistant Music Director will work closely with the Music Director and others on staff, current musical groups (adult choir, children's choir, a folk/pop/bluegrass/gospel group, a jazz trio), and others in the congregation. As a Unitarian Universalist congregation, First Parish affirms the innt worth and dignity of every person. Those from historically marginalized backgrounds (e.g., women, LGBTQ+, BIPOC, etc.) are especially encouraged to . This position is a staff appointment reporting to the Music Director.

It is expected that the Apanist/Assistant Music Director will average 6-7 hours per week in job-related functions, for both preparation and time in rehearsals and services. This position is year round. Please visit our to learn more about our congregation at uuneedham. Duties

• Each Sunday, plan to be at the church from approximately 8am-1pm, to include First Parish Choir rehearsal, the service, and Song Squad (children's choir) rehearsal.
• Apany and assist with choir rehearsals each week.
• During the service, apany hymns, the choirs, and guest musicians as needed.
• Lead rehearsals for the First Parish Choir and/or Song Squad in the Director's absence. These may be planned absences or if the Director is sick or absent for another emergency.
• Lead the service (singing hymns, and possibly conducting/leading the choir) in the Director's absence.
• Supply music for the prelude and postlude as needed each week on the piano oran
• as planned with the Music Director.
• Find music to play for services that is diverse and varied, and byposers of historically marginalizedmunities.
• Supply recordings as needed for rehearsal tracks for the choir and Song Squad, as well as recordings if we shift to virtual services or offerings.
• During the summer months, provide music for services as needed.
• 4 times a year, assist Music Director withTo the Fore Concert Series, which take place on Sundays at 4pm.

Qualifications:

Qualifications Required:

• Professional piano skills, andfortable playing in a great variety of musical styles.
• Excellent sight-reading skills.
• Must befortable singing while playing, and leading the congregation in hymns.
• Ability to read and play open score.
• Experience apanying choirs and instrumentalists.
• Ability to work with both adults and children.
• Flexibility and patience.
• An understanding of anti-oppression in music

Desired:

• 4 year music degree, Master's Degree in Music preferred.
• Ability to play thean, or willingness to takean lessons (provided by the church).
• An understanding of/experience with Unitarian Universalism