Assist in the running of a large music program at Fourth Presbyterian Church

The Organ Scholar is a one-year position (with the possibility of renewal for a second year) apprentice opportunity for recent organ/music graduates entering the field of church music. The Organ Scholar is primarily responsible for the accompanying of choir rehearsals, serving as substitute choir director, and assisting in worship services. They will have a unique opportunity to gain experience and develop their repertoire of anthems, hymns, and improvisational worship service skills while learning the daily aspects of running a large music program.

Other responsibilities include office experience in a large urban church setting, mission outreach, recruiting, and (for additional remuneration) experience playing for occasional weddings and funerals. They are also encouraged to explore additional educational opportunities for growth while in the position. The Organ Scholar is responsible for cultivating relations and conducting all duties in the spirit of the church’s continuing mission.

Primary Responsibilities

Performance

• Accompany all adult choir rehearsals (Morning, Chancel, Men’s, and Women’s Choirs plus Choral Society).
• Assist in morning worship services, both conducting and playing, as needed.
• Perform five Friday noontime concerts as soloist or accompanist.
• Organize and direct a minimum of two Cook County Jail concerts annually.
• Play for Taize worship services and other special services such as Presbytery meetings, animal blessing, etc.
• May have additional opportunities playing for weddings and memorial services

Programmatic duties

• Work with volunteer Choir Librarian to maintain choir library and choir music folders.
• Assist in recruitment of choir members.
• Assist with Friday Noontime concert administration.
• Coordinate weekly musical performances for Fourth Church Social Service meals program.
• Assist in other administrative or musical duties as needed.
  

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Organ, Music, or Conducting preferred
• Attend weekly departmental meetings and service playing lessons
• Basic Microsoft Office knowledge, including Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and various other software packages
• Previous experience with music programs or departments helpful
• Outstanding communication
• Ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Ability to follow schedule as specified
• Commitment to equity and social justice and proven ability to thrive in a diverse, equitable, just, and inclusive environment
• Use the S.P.I.R.I.T. principles of hospitality when interacting with visitors, guests, members, and staff of Fourth Presbyterian Church and Chicago Lights
• Desire and aptitude for working within a faith-based and a multicultural environment

Development

• The Organ Scholar will be strongly encouraged to pursue continuing education/opportunities in the field while in residence.
• They will also be coached in weekly service playing lessons.

Schedule

Flexible schedule is required. Sundays and Thursday evenings are required, as well as some evening and weekend availability for concerts and other events. When no concerts or events are scheduled, generally a Tuesday–Friday daytime schedule will be in place.

Compensation

This is a 30-hour/week position with pay in the low $30k’s. The position is eligible for our robust benefits package including:

• Medical (church pays 85% of employee monthly premium/75% of eligible dependents)
• Optional dental and visions plans
• Generous PTO plus holidays
• 403b retirement plan (employer contributions after one year of employment)
• FSA for unreimbursed medical and dependent daycare expenses
• Mass transit and commuter parking benefits
• Life and short term disability insurances, optional life insurance and long term disability plans

Apply

Fourth Presbyterian Church and Chicago Lights are committed to equal employment opportunity for all qualified persons, without regard to race, color, citizenship status, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, age, creed, physical or mental disability, marital status or familial status, veteran status, military status, source of income, political affiliation, or any other factor protected by law.