Part-Time Choir Director Position
First United Methodist Church of Waynesville - Waynesville, North Carolina
CLICK HERE for the full job description & how to apply
About Us & Our Location
Located in the majestic mountains of Western North Carolina, Waynesville offers a vibrant community and breathtaking natural beauty. We are the Gateway to the Smokies—a perfect setting for those seeking a high quality of life away from the bustle of the big city. First UMC Waynesville is an outstanding church with a rich musical tradition, featuring a Chancel Choir with many trained musicians, a 50-rank Casavant Pipe Organ, and a Steinway Concert Grand Piano.
Position Overview
We are seeking a passionate and skilled musician to lead our Chancel Choir and collaborate with church leadership to create meaningful worship experiences. We are looking for a leader who can balance musical excellence with a heart for ministry, encouraging volunteers while maintaining high standards.
Responsibilities
The Choir Director will be responsible for the following core duties:
Rehearsal Leadership: Plan and lead weekly choir rehearsals on Wednesday evenings from 7:00 to 8:30 PM from September through May. Lead choir rehearsals 30 minutes prior to worship year-round.
Worship Preparation: Select, prepare, and direct the chancel choir in presenting anthems and service music for the 11:00 AM Sunday worship service.
Music Selection: Collaborate with the Pastor and/or Worship Committee to select appropriate music that aligns with the lectionary, sermon topics, and the theological values of the United Methodist tradition.
Ensemble Management: Recruit, encourage, and support volunteer choir members of varying skill levels.
Collaboration: Work closely with our Church Organist.
Special Services: Prepare and direct the choir for special services, including but not limited to Christmas Eve and Holy Week.
Budget & Library: Oversee the management of the church music library and the annual music budget, submitting to the church leadership.
Qualifications
Education: A degree in Music (Choral Conducting, Music Education, or a related field is strongly preferred). Equivalent experience in church music ministry will also be considered.
Experience: Previous experience conducting an adult choir within a church setting.
Skills: Strong conducting skills, knowledge of vocal pedagogy, and proficiency in selecting diverse choral repertoire.
Personal Qualities: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; ability to inspire and motivate volunteers; a commitment to Christian faith and to the mission, vision, and values of our church (see links below).
Commitment & Compensation
Schedule: This is a part-time position requiring approximately 20 hours per week. Hours are flexible based on the liturgical seasons (e.g., heavier commitment during Advent and Holy Week; lighter schedule during the summer).
Salary Range: $20,000 – $25,000 annually.
How to Apply
To be considered for this position, please submit the following materials:
Cover Letter: Outlining your qualifications and interest in the position.
Resume: Detailing relevant education and experience.
References: Contact information for three professional references.
Video Submission (Conducting): A link to brief video clips of you conducting a rehearsal or performance in
two different styles (for example: art music, hymn arrangements, or spirituals).
Video Submission (Interview Questions): Please record brief video responses to the following three questions:
How do you pursue musical excellence with a volunteer choir?
How does your personal faith shape your music and ministry?
Please describe a situation where you handled conflict or
navigated different musical preferences within a choir.
Please send all application materials to:
Jack Ewing, Chair
Choir Director Search Committee
Jlewingjr@gmail.com
(828) 400-7119
Application Deadline: January 15, 2025, or until position is filled.
About First United Methodist Church of Waynesville, NC