Middletown Reformed Church Director of Music/Choir Director
Description: The Middletown Reformed Church seeks a Director of Music who will have a positive
impact on our Christian community by creating a joyful and worshipful experience for the congregation,
both in person and online, as it gathers to praise the glory of God in song. The Middletown Reformed
Church is an open and affirming congregation that welcomes into the full life of our congregation all
persons whom God calls to us, regardless of race, color, ethnicity, age, nationality, sexual identity, gender
identity, gender expression, socio-economic status or mental/physical/emotional ability. The Director of
Music will be expected to embrace our theology of welcome to all persons.
Expectations: Performing: The Director of Music should demonstrate an adequate degree of proficiency in playing
both the piano and organ that are provided by the Middletown Reformed Church. This playing proficiency
shall include the ability to sight read sheet music and have an ear trained to hear music. The Director of
Music will be asked to select and play musical pieces that meet the style and musical ability of the choir
and congregation.
Teaching: The Director of Music is encouraged to share their skills with members of the adult choir by
training members to effectively read, hear, and perform musical pieces. They are encouraged to
demonstrate their love of music by showing diligence, patience, and understanding in their approach
toward choir members.
Organization: The Director of Music must be prompt in arriving for worship, rehearsals, and other job
functions. They will meet monthly and work closely with the Pastor to select appropriate music for
worship based on specific themes or liturgical seasons. Selection of music will also include scheduling
guest musicians and incorporating special music into worship as opportunities arise.
Leadership/Recruiting: The Director of Music is encouraged to effectively recruit and develop talent
for the adult choir. Adult choir rehearsals will be scheduled on a weekly basis by mutual agreement of the
Director of Music and choir members for at least one hour per week, and rehearsals as needed before
Sunday worship, including any guest musicians. Rehearsals should include practice of individual parts for
soprano, alto, tenor, and bass along with time for additional individual instruction and consultation when
necessary.
Hours per Week Expected: 20-25 (performance, rehearsal, instructional, and administrative). Should
the Director of Music be asked to play for memorial services or weddings, they may charge a fee to the
family for their services, not included as part of their salary.
Performance Evaluation: The Director of Music’s performance will be evaluated on a yearly basis to
ensure that it meets the needs of the congregation. Performance will be assessed in relation to the criteria
set forth herein. Members of the Consistory, along with the Pastor, will perform the evaluation.
Salary: Salary based on American Guild of Organist guidelines on levels of education/experience.
To apply for the position, email a cover letter and resume to Rev. Tricia Sheffield at sheffield.tricia@gmail.com