Director of Music/Organist

Pilgrim Congregational United Church of Christ is a progressive, inclusive congregation located in a historic building in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland. With a rich tradition of musical diversity, Pilgrim values music as an essential part of worship, community life, and spiritual expression. We are seeking a Director of Music/Organist to lead and inspire our music ministry, working collaboratively with our Pastor, ensembles, and the congregation. Supervised by the Pastor, this part-time position (15 hrs/week) supports music ministries at Sunday services throughout the year as well as occasional special services.

Responsibilities include:

  • Collaborating with the Pastor to design weekly Sunday worship and occasional special services (e.g., Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, Christmas Eve, Pride, World AIDS Day)
  • Directing and rehearsing:
    • Pilgrim Singers—a volunteer vocal choir that currently performs in worship once a month and rehearses at 9 am on Sunday
    • Pilgrim Ringers—a volunteer bell choir that currently performs in worship once a month and rehearses at 9 am on Sunday and/or a weeknight
  • Scheduling and rehearsing volunteer or paid musicians for other services
  • Preparing and performing prelude, interlude, postlude, hymns, and additional service music on the organ or piano
  • Meeting with pastor weekly in person, via Zoom, or phone (30 minutes); communicating with the Board of Diaconate regularly
  • Sending information about music for upcoming services to the Church Administrator in a timely way as well as responding to other communications requests (newsletter, annual report).
  • Participating in annual ministry review
  • Providing music at weddings and funerals (right of first refusal, with additional compensation)
  • Utilizing and maintaining Pilgrim’s music library
  • Arranging tuning and repairs for organ, pianos, and bells in coordination with the Facilities Manager seasonally

Compensation and Benefits:

  • Salary range: $15,500 to $24,500 (commensurate with experience and education)
  • Additional compensation for weddings and funerals (rates set annually)
  • Travel reimbursement at current federal rate
  • Three weeks paid vacation annually

Qualifications:

  • A college degree in music strongly preferred (may be in process)
  • Proficiency as an organist and pianist with knowledge of sacred and secular repertoire
  • Experience directing choral, bell, and/or instrumental groups in a church or similar setting
  • Strong organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills
  • Collaborative approach and ability to mentor musicians of all levels
  • Commitment to diversity, inclusion, and the church’s mission

Additional Information: 

  • Instruments in our sanctuary include an 1893 Farrand-Votey organ (41 ranks and 61 stops) and a Sojin baby grand piano.
  • Worship is at 10 am on Sundays, and the Director of Music is expected to be present from 9:00-11:30 am on Sundays. Performance schedule and rehearsal times for groups are negotiable.

To Apply:

Interested candidates should email a cover letter, résumé, and references to MusicDirectorPilgrim@gmail.com. In addition, links to audio/video of recent performances would be greatly appreciated. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Join us in making joyful, meaningful music in a community that celebrates creativity, the faith journey, and welcome for all! For more information about Pilgrim, visit www.pilgrimalive.org.