Organist/Pianist with possible Bell Choir direction

Trinity United Methodist Church – Organist/Pianist with possible Bell Choir direction

Overview

Trinity United Methodist Church (1024 Lake Avenue, Wilmette – known as the “Home Alone” movie church) is a welcoming community of compassion and faith. Trinity is currently seeking an exceptional organist and pianist to collaborate with the Director of Music Ministries/Chancel Choir Director with the option to add leadership of the Trinity Ringers Bell Choir for a qualified candidate. We are a reconciling (open and affirming) congregation that highly values music. Trinity Wilmette’s organ is one of the finest in the Chicago area – a 63 rank Reuter.  To see the organ’s stop list [click here].

 

Interested applicants should reply to trinityinfo@trinitywilmette.org and submit:

  • CV/Resume
  • One letter of recommendation
  • YouTube links to videos that demonstrate organ performance, hymn/service music playing, and piano accompanying

February 15th – application reviews commence. Applications accepted until position filled.

June 1 or September 1 start date, negotiable.

Desired Qualifications

  • A degree in music/organ or the equivalent advanced study in organ performance.
  • Extensive experience playing hymns and choosing/playing music for worship.
  • Experience as a choral accompanist and collaborative pianist.
  • A strong commitment to personal faith and the ministry of Trinity United Methodist Church.
  • Strong relational skills and spiritual sensitivity in dealing with the choir, other musicians, and the congregation and staff.

Position Description

  • Approximately 10-12 hours a week
  • One weekly Sunday service at 10:30am. Onsite time typically 9am – noon. Organist is responsible for choosing and playing prelude and postlude and other incidental music, and playing and assisting in choosing hymns and service music.
  • Additional services Christmas Eve, Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter (2 services), and afternoon concerts as needed (typically twice a year).
  • Accompany a wide variety of advanced choral repertoire for the Chancel Choir (4 paid soloists) at rehearsals (Thursdays, 7:30-9pm) and in service.
  • Accompany soloists on piano and organ in advanced repertoire throughout the summer (May – August) and during the year as requested.
  • Accompany the Trinity Youth Singers for service singing, typically 4 times a year.
  • Participation in monthly worship planning meetings with the Director of Music Ministries and Pastor.
  • When necessary, secure keyboard substitutes, in consultation with the Director of Music Ministries.
  • Monitor condition of the keyboard instruments and scheduling repair and tunings when necessary.

 

Additional Opportunities

  • Direct the Trinity Ringers Bell Choir in weekly rehearsals (Thursdays, 6:15-7:15pm) and in service, typically 4 times a year (additional compensation).
  • First right of refusal for Weddings and Funerals (additional compensation).
  • Provide optional organ concerts or recitals.

 

Salary and Benefits

  • Salary commensurate with experience and exact duties as determined.
  • Four Sundays paid time off.
  • Additional unpaid leave as negotiated.