Church Musician

Church Musician Job Description
Hope United Church of Christ

Overview
Hope United Church of Christ (Hope UCC)—a progressive, Open & Affirming, and inclusive Christian church located in Alexandria, Virginia—seeks a talented and dedicated part-time musician and pianist to help spread God’s love, compassion, and joy through engaging and moving music. Join our musical ministry as Hope UCC continues to welcome everyone and support the community through active engagement, outreach, and social justice programs.

Job Responsibilities
Play keyboard for Sunday worship services (one service per Sunday), including accompanying the choir; play keyboard for choir rehearsals on Tuesday evenings; and collaborate with Senior Pastor, Choir Director and staff to plan music for worship services.

Essential Qualifications
●Keyboard Expertise
○Excellent piano/keyboard skills with a minimum of 3-5 years of experience
○Excellent sight-reading capabilities
○Strong improvisational musical abilities (read lead sheets)
○Familiarity with digital keyboard (Ours is a Yamaha MODX8)
●Choral Background
○Minimum 3-5 years of choral experience, either as a singer or accompanist
○Demonstrated ability to support choir rehearsals and performances
●Musical and Liturgical Knowledge
○Comprehensive understanding of music and hymns across diverse Christian traditions
○Ability to collaborate effectively with the Choir Director and church staff for comprehensive worship planning
○Ability to integrate music seamlessly into worship services
● Availability
○Must be consistently available on Sunday mornings, for weekly choir rehearsal (Tuesday evenings), and during major Christian Holidays.
○Availability for 50 Sundays with two off per year and flexible vacation time.
● Education: Minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent; prefer a bachelor’s degree in music or related field
● Communication Skills: Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills.
● Background Check: Must pass a comprehensive background check.
● Be responsible, enthusiastic, and at least 18 years old
● Provide two references

Desired Qualifications
●Basic audio setup and troubleshooting experience with mixers like Mackie ProFXv3
●Professional network of musicians in the local community
●Capability to secure appropriate substitutes when absent
●Versatility in leading small instrumental ensembles
●Proficiency in additional instruments (e.g., guitar)
● Experience or knowledge of the United Church of Christ
● Not a member of Hope UCC
● Experience playing in-person, virtually, and with hybrid models

Employment Details
●Part-time position, 10 hours a week, $25 to $30 per hour (based on qualifications)
●Start date: March 31, 2025 (flexible).
●Reports to the Senior Pastor.
●Hired by: Executive Council

Interested candidates are requested to submit their resume, cover letter, and at least two references to jobs@hopeucc.org.

Hope United Church of Christ
Alexandria, Virginia
hopeucc.org