Job Description

The Catholic Archdiocese of Washington's mission is to spread the light of the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the world. In the faithful pursuit of this mission, the Archdiocese is seeking a part-time Director of Music for Ascension Parish. The Director of Music will be responsible for all sung music in the parish for liturgies (professional organist already in place) and will report to the Pastor. This position is part-time.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Under the direction of the pastor, the Director of Music schedules and oversees music at parish liturgies, including for Sundays, Holy Days of Obligation, and special liturgies such as for Christmas, Ash Wednesday, Triduum, and sacramental liturgies (First Holy Communion, Confirmation)
• Collaborates with parish organist (professional organist already in place)
• Acts as cantor and coordinates cantors when needed
• Leads rehearsals for regular youth schola, as well as for adult schola for special liturgies
• Prepares youth schola to sing at occasional sung Vespers
• Assists in selection of musicians and music for weddings, funerals, and other special liturgies
• Helps educate parish in understanding and singing sacred music
• Collaborates with other parish employees and parishioners as needed
• Recommends music resources to pastor, produces and prints music aids as needed
• Orders new materials as needed in accordance with budget
• Ensures that music is used in accord with proper licensing

Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

• Practicing Catholic in good standing with knowledge and understanding of the Catholic Church and her mission
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Experience leading a strong sacred music program

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Sacred Music or a related field preferred, with knowledge and experience of Catholic worship and liturgical documents
• Proficiency in vocal performance of liturgical music; some proficiency with organ and piano also helpful
• Experience with Gregorian chant, polyphony, traditional hymns, and current sacred music composers and organizations (e.g., CMAA, Paul Jernberg, CCWatershed, CanticaNOVA, etc.)
• Prior to start day complete all Archdiocese of Washington requirements for those with substantial contact with children, including fingerprinting, background clearance, Virtus training

Work Environment

• This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, printers and filing cabinets. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Physical Demands

• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 25 lbs.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

• Non-exempt employee likely 16 hrs./week, including attendance at evening and weekend events as necessary