Organist and Choir Director

*Job Overview**
St. Mark AME Zion Church in Durham, North Carolina is seeking a dedicated and Spirit-led individual to serve as a Choir Director and/or Organist. We are ideally looking for someone who can fulfill both roles, but we are open to candidates who specialize in one area. We are seeking a passionate and dynamic Organist and Choir Director to lead our vibrant musical worship and enhance the spiritual experience of our congregation. This role combines exceptional musical talent with inspiring leadership, fostering a welcoming environment where choir members and musicians can flourish. The ideal candidate will bring energy, creativity, and a collaborative spirit to cultivate a rich musical tradition that elevates our community’s worship services. This paid position offers an exciting opportunity to shape the musical heartbeat of our congregation while mentoring emerging musicians and fostering a love for sacred music.
*ResponsibilitiesLead and coordinate weekly choir rehearsals and worship services, ensuring a seamless integration of music with the liturgical calendar.Play the organ or other keyboard instruments with skill and sensitivity, providing musical accompaniment that enhances congregational participation.Develop diverse musical programs that reflect traditional, contemporary, or blended worship styles, engaging the congregation through inspiring performances.Recruit, train, and mentor choir members and volunteer musicians, fostering their growth in both musical skill and spiritual understanding.Collaborate closely with clergy and worship team members to select appropriate music that aligns with service themes and special occasions.Maintain all musical instruments, including tuning, repairs, and scheduling regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance.Promote a welcoming environment that encourages participation from all age groups and backgrounds, nurturing a sense of community through music.*QualificationsProven experience as an organist or choir director in a church or similar setting, demonstrating leadership and musical excellence.Experience in church music ministry (Black church, AME, AME Zion, or similar traditions preferred)Ability to work with and lead a choir of varying skill levelsStrong musical and spiritual sensitivity in worship settingsStrong teaching skills with the ability to mentor choir members and volunteer musicians of varying skill levels.Excellent communication skills to effectively collaborate with clergy, staff, volunteers, and congregation members.Deep knowledge of sacred music traditions across various styles, with the ability to adapt to the needs of the congregation especially in the Black Church tradition.Ability to inspire enthusiasm for music ministry while managing rehearsals efficiently.Familiarity with church liturgy and service planning is preferred but not required.A passion for fostering community through music and a commitment to spiritual growth within the congregation. Join us in creating uplifting worship experiences through inspiring music! This paid role offers an enriching environment where your leadership can make a meaningful impact on our community’s spiritual journey while nurturing your own talents in a supportive setting.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time
Work Location: In person