Church Musician

OPENING FOR PART-TIME MUSICIAN

The First Universalist Church of Rochester, NY is a vibrant, growing congregation of ~150 members. We are an historic urban church dedicated to radical hospitality, a place for spiritual renewal and service to the larger community. We belong to the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA), a liberal religious organization that draws spiritual inspiration from many religious traditions. We seek a part-time musician to inspire, create, and implement an excellent, eclectic, and multi-cultural music ministry. We value all kinds of music, so organists, pianists, and choral directors of any style or genre are encouraged to apply. Our church houses one of the few surviving organs of Hope-Jones from 1908.

Primary Responsibilities:

Directing a non-auditioned choir of ~30 members which rehearses at 9 AM on Sunday mornings and sings most weeks between September and June at 10:30 AM services. Collaborating with the minister, one other staff musician, and worship leaders in worship planning, meeting weekly or as needed. Choosing choir anthems and incidental music appropriate for Sunday services, in collaboration with worship leaders. (The church maintains a large choir music library (with database), access to the resources of the UU Musicians Network (UUMN), a virtual hymnal, and a budget for purchasing new choral music.) Drawing on and encouraging the musical talents of the congregation and rehearsing with musicians for services as needed. This may include smaller vocal ensembles, youth groups, and instrumental soloists and ensembles. Hiring, coordinating, and paying guest professional musicians. Meeting as needed, up to once monthly, with music ministry committee and overseeing worship powerpoint slide preparation with the support of that team Coordinating with Congregational Life Coordinator on 1-2 musical outreach events per year (fundraising concert, open mic night, community performance, etc.).

Qualifications:

1. Degree in music, or equivalent experience, with instrumental and vocal accompaniment skills. 2. Experience in choral conducting is preferred, with an ability to lead rehearsals and performances from the piano. 3. A willingness to uphold the values of justice, love, and belonging at the heart of our religious life.

Terms:

1. Audition process includes interviews with the Minister and with representatives of the congregation, plus an open choir rehearsal. 2. 8-10 hours per week (includes Sunday choir rehearsal and church service, plus ample preparation time during the week), approximately 24-28 weeks/year. 3. Availability for holiday services per year, including Christmas Eve. 4. Salary range of $9,000 to $11,000. 5. Right of first refusal for weddings, memorials, and rites of passage held in our sanctuary.

Application deadline:

June 20, 2026. Send resume, cover letter, and 3 references to:

Music Search, ATTN:

Rev. Eileen Casey-Campbell, First Universalist Church of Rochester, minister@uuroc.org.

Pay:

$9,000.00 - $11,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Flexible schedule Paid time off

Work Location:

In person