Director of Music & Organist

Southport Congregational Church – Southport, CT

Position Overview

Southport Congregational Church, located in Southport, Connecticut, is seeking a talented and dedicated organist and choir director to join our vibrant congregation as Director of Music and Organist. Our church is conveniently situated just steps from the Metro North train station—about 75 minutes from New York City and 40 minutes from New Haven. Set within a community rich in musical tradition, we deeply value the integral role that music plays in our worship services and fellowship.

About the Position

This year-round, part-time role, requires a commitment of 15–20 hours per week. The Director of Music and Organist will lead our Senior Choir during Sunday services from September to June and play for church services during the summer months. An ideal candidate will also conduct our Handbell Choir. Collaboration and contributing to a positive work environment that reflects our church’s mission to be an exemplar of love and acceptance in the community is key.

Southport Congregational Church further demonstrates its value for musical excellence through the Special Music Fund. This supplementary budget augments our core music program providing for such examples as a brass quartet on Easter Sunday or a harp for Communion. Candidates with the ability to manage this aspect of our music ministry and have a vision for how it could grow in the future will distinguish themselves in the application process.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in organ/music/voice related field, AGO certification, or equivalent experience.

  • Demonstrated experience with pipe organ (Austin, Opus 164), piano proficiency, choral conducting, handbell conducting, repertoire selection, and accompanying professional singers and instrumentalists.

  • Ability to work with the Senior Choir in a range of musical styles, including classical, modern, and contemporary Christian music. Willingness to use existing repertoire pieces while phasing in new material to ensure a smooth transition from our retiring Music Director who served our church for over three decades.

  • Strong knowledge of sacred music.

  • A genuine collaborative spirit and well-natured interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

  • Lead our church in the Ministry of Music in collaboration with the Senior Minister and supported by the Music Committee.

  • Provide accompaniment for all Sunday worship services.

  • Prepare and present music for special occasions, including Christmas Eve, Maundy Thursday, Advent and Lenten Cantatas. Additional compensation for weddings and funerals.

  • Music direct, rehearse, accompany, and conduct the Senior Choir, comprised of both dedicated non-professional singers as well as paid section leaders (currently, a soprano, mezzo-soprano and bass-baritone), and a volunteer Handbell Choir.

  • Manage choirs’ rehearsal schedule. Currently, the Senior Choir rehearses before and after our Sunday Worship Service, and the Handbell Choir rehearses Monday evenings, in season.

  • Coordinate, schedule, rehearse and conduct professional instrumentalists and vocalists for special music events throughout the year.

  • Participate in and provide guidance for the management of the music ministry budget and special music fund in collaboration with the Senior Minister, church staff and Music Committee.

  • Order supplies related to the church music program and ensure all instruments are tuned as per the Music Budget.

  • Ensure compliance with copyright laws for printed music and live-streaming services.

  • Attend regular church staff meetings and Music Committee meetings.

  • Provide support, as needed, to Youth and Assistant Youth Choir Directors, encouraging joy, faith, and creativity.

Terms of Employment

  • This is a year-round, part-time position, requiring 15–20 hours per week.

  • The salary range is $45,000–$60,000, based on education, agreed hours, and prior experience.

  • Leadership of the Handbell Choir is required for the maximum salary.

  • Four weeks of paid vacation are included. The Music Director/Organist is responsible for arranging a substitute organist for vacation periods.

  • Position commences upon hiring.

Application Instructions

Interested candidates should submit inquiries with resumes and cover letter via email to Pam Poling at ppoling@southportucc.org.

About Southport Congregational Church

Our clergy and staff embody a loving, open and affirming community rooted in faith and service. Through meaningful worship, thoughtful teaching, compassionate care and dedicated outreach, we walk alongside our congregation on their spiritual journey.

Southport Congregational Church is a welcoming and generous community, committed to following Jesus’ command to “love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul and mind...and love your neighbor as yourself.” (Matthew 22:33-40)

Located in historic Southport Village, our church is large enough to make an impact, yet small enough to feel like a family. Together we strive to share joy, peace and support through worship and service.