Minister of Music, Full-Time, UCC: Norwell, MA

The United Church of Christ Norwell is a Christ-centered, inclusive community called to ministry located on the South Shore of Massachusetts. We are seeking a full-time Minister of Music beginning July 1, 2025 for our 500 member congregation. The principal function is to be responsible to the church for developing, leading, and promoting all music selections and implementing all music ministries of the church in coordination with the Senior Pastor. We are aspiring to hire a Minister of Music who will be a strong leader possessing a passion for traditional and contemporary worship and a vision for musical excellence. Our goal is that through our worship music, God will be praised and glorified, people will be connected to each other, and we will spread the Good News of Jesus Christ.

At present, UCC Norwell’s Music Ministry includes:

  • Sanctuary Choir – 30+ adult volunteer choir
  • Celestial Ringers – adult handbell choir playing 4 octaves of Schulmerich Bells
  • Rockin’ Ringers – youth handbell choir (Grades 4-8)
  • Cherub Chimes – childrens’ singing and chime choir (Grades K-3)

Throughout the year there are various musical events open to the community to share God’s message including:

  • Christmas Celebration Concerts (annual)
  • Musical Meditations for Advent and Lent (annual)
  • Handbell Concerts (biennial)
  • Veterans Concert (occasional)

Our Music Ministry mission statement is as follows:

The Music Ministry Team is called to develop and implement a sustainable music program which deepens our faith and enlivens our spirit. Believing that music is important for all ages and abilities, we strive to serve our congregation and the people of God’s greater community through excellent and innovative music each week. With a diversity of offerings throughout the year, it is our hope that listeners and participants alike will experience the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in their lives.

Primary responsibilities

Worship leadership:

  • Oversee and coordinate all aspects of the church’s musical worship experiences, including Sunday services, weddings, funerals, memorial services and special occasion concerts
  • Play piano and/or organ for weekly worship, Conduct choirs, instrumental ensembles.
  • Select and arrange appropriate music for various worship styles and themes
  • Collaborate with the pastor to create meaningful and engaging worship experiences

Music education:

  • Incorporate music education into rehearsals for all ages, children, youth, and adults
  • Recruit and train volunteer musicians

Mentoring and music ministry development:

  • Foster a vibrant and inclusive music ministry that reflects the church’s mission, vision and values
  • Develop musical ministry and choir opportunities outside of the church
  • Maintain connections between the music ministry and the broader community through community outreach
  • Develop relationships with other church musicians, local musicians and musical organizations
  • Respond to the requests and needs of choir members
  • Pursue professional development

Administrative duties:

  • Manage the church’s music budget and resources
  • Maintain the church’s music library and supervise the maintenance of church’s equipment
  • Coordinate with staff, music ministry team, sanctuary choir leaders, and volunteers to ensure smooth operation of the music ministry
  • Arrange for substitutes in your absence

Qualifications and skills

  • Education: Bachelor’s degree in music or a related field, with advanced training in choral conducting, instrumental music, or music education preferred
  • Experience: Proven experience in leading and directing choral and instrumental ensembles
  • Skills: Proficient in piano and organ; familiarity with handbells
  • Communication: Excellent communication, interpersonal and organizational skills
  • Spiritual qualifications: Deep commitment to God and a strong understanding of the UCC’s theology and mission

    Additional considerations:

    • Worship styles: Familiarity with a variety of musical styles, including traditional and contemporary
    • Technology: Proficiency in using music technology

    Benefits (Package provided at no cost to our employees):

    • Salary range $65-75k
    • Insurance benefits (medical/disability/dental/vision)
    • FICA (7.65%)
    • Pension plan
    • $1500 professional allowance
    • Paid vacation

    Apply at: ucc.music.search@gmail.com