We are delighted you’re interested in the position of Director of Music and considering joining us in our ministry at St. John’s! We hope, in addition to exploring our open Director of Music position, that you’ll take a moment to find out more about our faith community, what is unique about our work here in Minnesota, our passion for justice and spiritual life as well as our sense of deep connection to one another and to our faith. Check out our music ministry page and find out more about our life of worship and liturgy too. Of course, you can find us on YouTube (recent sermons and services as well as archived formation programs), and on Facebook.
Job Title & Role: Director of Music and Organist
- Location: Twin Cities Metro
- Job Type: Full time
- Reports to: Rector
- FLSA status: Exempt
- Salary range: $70,000-$80,000
Job Summary
The Director of Music and Organist provides leadership, vision, and direction for the church’s music ministry. This collaborative role is responsible for planning, organizing, and conducting a music program that enhances the worship experience, fosters spiritual growth, creates community, and aligns with the theological values and vision of the congregation. The person called to this position must be a musician possessing excellence as an organist and choral conductor and will ideally have experience with Episcopal liturgy and musical tradition.
Organization Summary
St. John the Evangelist is a thriving, diverse Episcopal parish with nearly 300 members located in an historic urban neighborhood in St. Paul, Minnesota. For over 140 years, we have been known as “the church of the open door,” dedicated to spiritual growth, social justice, and community reconciliation. At St. John’s, music is an integral spiritual practice and a core element of our liturgy. Our music ministry engages the community through a vibrant congregational singing tradition, an adult choir averaging 25 members (including 7 staff singers), and a handbell choir. Worship is anchored by our historic, four-manual E.M. Skinner organ; beautifully restored in 2008, it now features 55 ranks and 3,455 pipes across 6 divisions. Our repertoire honors a rich Anglican and Episcopal heritage, balancing a high standard of excellence with a spirit of exploration.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
- Worship planning and preparation
- Collaborate with the clergy and consult with the Liturgy Committee, other music staff, and parish leaders to select hymns, anthems, service music, and incidental music appropriate to liturgical occasions and lectionary and to plan events.
- Prepare music for Sunday and other weekly services, including psalms, hymns, anthems, and preludes and postludes.
- Prepare and present major choral works as part of Evensongs (4-5/year), including Lessons and Carols.
- Music leadership and conducting
- Provide music at both Sunday services (8 and 10 am). 10 am service includes hymns, choir anthem (during the program year), and service music. Both services include organ voluntaries.
- Accompany and support congregational singing, encouraging participation in a wide repertoire of hymns and service music.
- Rehearse and direct adult choir for all services, fostering confidence in and appreciation for a broad variety of sacred music.
- Lead weekly Compline service (or arrange for leadership) during the program year.
- Play the organ for other services in the church year.
- Accompany and/or rehearse and direct instrumental ensembles and other music groups for special liturgies and church events.
- Assist individual musicians as needed.
- Administration and Ministry Management
- Hire and supervise all parish musicians, choir section leaders, and choral scholars.
- Manage music budget and participate in music program fundraising.
- Oversee the acquisition of new music and work with archivists to preserve and maintain the parish music library.
- Supervise and arrange for maintenance of all parish instruments (two organs, three pianos, handbells, and tower bells).
- Community engagement
- Facilitate and oversee use of worship space and instruments by outside groups.
- Represent our church and music program within the local and national liturgical music community.
- Publicize worship/music events within the broader community.
- Assist with preparation for collaborative worship and outreach in the community.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in organ performance, choral conducting, or related field.
- 3-5 years of experience leading music ministry in a parish church.
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively with a diverse team.
- Proven experience managing budgets and financial details.
- An active, personal faith and a deep understanding of Christian worship.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master’s degree or higher in organ performance, choral conducting, or related field.
- Experience in the musical and liturgical traditions of the Episcopal church.
- Experience with community outreach and fund raising.
Working Conditions
- Must be available for evening rehearsals (e.g., midweek choir practice), weeknight services (Thursday Compline services) and weekend and special services.
Compensation and Benefits
The expected compensation range for this role is $70,000–$80,000 annually. The specific offer will be based upon candidate experience, education, and skills.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should send:
- A resume
- A cover letter highlighting prior music ministry experience and relevant interpersonal skills
- Links to an organ performance or choral conducting and other portfolio samples as available
Send Application to: [email protected]
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
