Music Director – St Joseph Church Job at Church of the Holy Spirit in Vernon

St. Joseph Catholic Church

33 West St

Vernon, CT 06066

Music Director

The Parish Music Director serves as a vital steward of the liturgical life of the parish, fostering prayerful worship through sacred music. This role combines musical excellence with pastoral sensitivity, supporting the spiritual life of the community through organ performance, choir leadership, and vocal ministry.

Key Responsibilities

Liturgical Music Planning & Performance

• Select and perform appropriate organ music for all scheduled liturgies:
• Saturday Vigil Mass at 4:00 PM
• Sunday Masses at 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM
• All Catholic holy days of obligation and major liturgical celebrations (e.g., Christmas, Easter, Holy Week)
• Provide music for parish sacramental celebrations and special liturgies, including:
• Confirmations
• First Communions
• Weddings (as scheduled)
• Funerals (as scheduled)
• Coordinate with clergy to ensure music aligns with liturgical themes and seasonal needs
• Polish‑Language Liturgical Support (Preferred but not required)

Preferred candidates will be able to plan and perform music for the Sunday 8:00 AM Mass, and other special events which are celebrated in Polish. Familiarity with Polish Catholic hymns and liturgical traditions is also desired but not required. Ability to cantor or lead Polish‑language congregational singing is a plus.

Choir Leadership

Direct and rehearse the parish choir, fostering musical growth and spiritual engagement. Schedule regular rehearsals and prepare choir for Sunday and special liturgies. Encourage participation and build a welcoming, faith‑filled choir community.

Cantor Duties (Preferred but not required)

Serve as cantor, leading the congregation in sung prayer. Train and mentor volunteer cantors if applicable.

Administrative & Collaborative Duties

Maintain music library and plan selections in accordance with liturgical norms. Communicate effectively with parish staff and volunteers. Attend liturgy planning meetings as requested. Coordinate with families and clergy for weddings and funerals to ensure appropriate musical selections.

Qualifications

Proficiency in organ performance, with experience in Catholic liturgical music. Strong knowledge of Roman Catholic liturgical calendar and musical traditions. Experience directing choirs and/or serving as cantor preferred. Ability to work collaboratively with clergy, staff, and volunteers. Polish language proficiency and familiarity with Polish liturgical music strongly preferred. Commitment to fostering reverent, participatory worship.

Schedule & Compensation

Part‑time position with required presence at all designated Masses, holy days, and scheduled sacramental liturgies. Additional hours for choir rehearsals, planning, and special events. Compensation commensurate with experience and scope of responsibilities.