Seeking Director of Music

First Congregational Church of East Hartford, CT, established in 1699, is in search of a new Music Director to oversee our talented, diverse, and vibrant music program. Our next Music Director will direct and accompany our dedicated 4-part choir, averaging 12-15 voices weekly, and a Praise Band of 5-8 singers and instrumentalists. We are blessed with a Neill-Johnson pipe organ and recently refurbished Steinway grand piano in the sanctuary. They support the music experience for between 50-70 members and friends each Sunday.   

Responsibilities: 

  • Work with the pastor and worship leadership in preparation for Worship Services. 
  • Play organ and/or piano music for all regular Sunday Services, offering hymns, prelude, postlude, offertory, anthems, praise pieces, prayer response and music during communion. 
  • Play Christmas Eve, Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, Easter and any additional services mutually agreed upon. 
  • Direct and accompany the Choir when the Choir is in session (Sept.- June), as well as special services mentioned above.   
  • Direct, lead, and accompany the Praise Band. 
  • Lead weekly rehearsals for the Choir and Praise Band. 
  • Coordinate soloists, small groups, instrumentalists, and special music in worship occasionally. 
  • Manage budgeted funds for new choral music/supplies. 

Education, Qualifications & Experience: 

  • Proficiency playing the organ and piano required. 
  • Experience as a choral director a plus. 
  • Experience with contemporary Christian music a plus. 
  • A background check will be required for the final candidate. 

Compensation: 

  • Salary is $15,300. 
  • Flexible time off 

Preferred Start Date:  ASAP 

To Apply/Inquire: 

Contact the Search Committee Chair at connieholmeen@gmail.com.  A resume, a cover letter and two references are required and can be emailed to the above address or mailed to: 

Search Committee 

First Congregational Church 

837 Main Street 

East Hartford, CT 06108 

The First Congregational Church of East Hartford is an Open & Affirming congregation of the United Church of Christ!   We are diverse theologically, concerned socially, and seeking to grow spiritually.  To learn more about our church, and to read our mission statement, check out our website:  churchcorners.org 

Regular Instrumentalists from the congregation include flute, guitar, keyboard, drums, and steel drum.