Career Opportunities

Job Title: Director of Children’s and Youth Choirs (Part-Time)
Reports To: Director of Music

General Summary:
The Director of Children’s and Youth Choirs plays a critical role at Marble Collegiate Church, tasked with nurturing a comprehensive and engaging music ministry for children and youth ranging from elementary school age through high school. The role involves leading and developing diverse musical opportunities, including vocal and instrumental ensembles, that cater to the varied interests and talents within the church community.

The vision for Marble Collegiate Church includes an aligned focus for all ministry areas and Program Groups on the strategic directions that resulted from our 2022 strategic planning process. Each staff member at Marble is tasked with working to align their ministry areas with these strategic directions and build a growth and outreach plan that prioritizes these areas.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Prepare and lead choir rehearsals on Sunday mornings from September to June, including additional rehearsals as necessary, primarily focusing on preparation to sing approximately once per month during the 11:00am service.

2. Collaborate with the Director of Children, Youth, and Families (CYF) Ministry and the Director of Music to schedule participation in the 11:00am service and special events.

3. Select appropriate and inspiring repertoire for children, youth, and teenagers, ensuring a broad appeal across different age groups and musical tastes.

4. Actively recruit children to participate in singing, playing various instruments, and contributing artistically, fostering a diverse and inclusive music ministry.

5. Incorporate elements of music education and music theory into the curriculum to enrich the musical understanding and abilities of participants.

6. Manage and direct accompanists and additional musicians as required and within budget parameters, ensuring a supportive and enriching musical environment.

7. Engage with the CYF team to coordinate music selections and address student-related issues, ensuring a cohesive and supportive approach to music education and performance.

8. Maintain open communication with children and parents regarding schedules and concerns through various channels.

9. Arrange for substitute instructors in the event of personal illness or emergencies, in coordination with the Director of Music and Director of CYF Ministry.

10. Keep the Director of CYF Ministry informed of any parental concerns or student incidents.

11. Direct and coordinate the musical components in partnership with the CYF team for key church-wide events, such as the annual Christmas Pageant in December, the End-of-the-Year Celebration [working title?], and various other festive observances throughout the church calendar.

Specific Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Expectations:

• Experience in making music with children between ages 5-12, preferably within a church setting.

• Formal vocal music training and basic accompanying skills.

• A degree in Music, Music Education, Music Theory, Choral Conducting, or a related field.

• Knowledge of a wide range of musical repertoire, including Judeo-Christian or spiritually-based music, that is suitable for young children.

• Ability to connect with, motivate, and inspire participants in both educational and performance settings.

• Skilled in managing diverse social-emotional dynamics among children and youth.

• Strong commitment to selecting a varied music repertoire that is engaging, educational, and challenging for choir members.

This position is designed for an individual who is passionate about music education and eager to develop a vibrant, inclusive, and educational music ministry for children and youth within a supportive and dynamic church community.

Schedule and Logistics:

The Children’s or Youth Choirs are scheduled to sing in Sunday worship once per month with specific dates identified in collaboration with the Director of Music.  The weekly schedule for the Director will be established as much as possible around other full-time work as agreed with the Director of Music.  A typical week may include Sunday worship, a weekly rehearsal with the choir, meetings with the Director of Music, staff meetings, or other community-building activities.  Staff members are encouraged to plan ahead and keep communication lines open for a healthy work/life balance. Currently, the staff has a hybrid onsite and remote work model without designated offices. However, workspaces are available during the week as needed.

Compensation:

The Compensation structure for this part-time position, based primarily on a Sunday rate, will fall in the range of $14,000 - $16,000 per year.

The Sunday rate includes all Worship preparation and participation, including logistics, collaboration, and communication with other staff, choir members, and their families. Special services or concerts beyond the regular Sunday schedule will be paid separately.

*Fees for substitutes would be determined in consultation with the Director of Music and would be deducted from these rates.

To apply:

Please submit a cover letter and resume via our online Recruiting platform through ADP at the following link:

Director of Children’s and Youth Choirs

People of all genders and orientations, and members of all racial and ethnic groups, are encouraged to apply.

Marble Collegiate Church is on Fifth Avenue and 29th Street in New York City. An open and affirming community, Marble’s history dates to 1628 and has grown and progressed with New York City to develop a worldwide reputation.