Description
Director of Music for Traditional Services
Linworth United Methodist Church – Columbus, Ohio
Part-Time | Approximately 15 hours/week
Compensation: $28-$32 per hour (approx. $21,500-$25,000 per year)
The Director of Music for Traditional Services will lead and shape the musical life of LUMC’s traditional worship service, bringing both artistic skill and collaborative spirit to a congregation that loves to worship through music.
Position Summary
The Director of Music for Traditional Services is responsible for the year-round musical leadership of LUMC’s traditional worship service. This includes planning and selecting music in collaboration with the pastoral staff, directing the Chancel Choir, and coordinating the various musical groups and soloists that contribute to worship throughout the year. The Director supervises the Organist, Handbell Choir Director (if a separate position), and paid section leaders, and serves as the primaryTraditional Music staff representative to the Worship Planning Committee.
Commitments:
Commitment to Christian faith
Commitment to the ministry and mission of LUMC
Commitment to the shared values of LUMC staff
Commitment to the policies, procedures, and practices outlined by LUMC staff and leaders
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in music (performance or music education), or equivalent professional experience helpful but not required
Demonstrated experience in choral conducting
Knowledge of vocal and choral technique; keyboard fluency an asset
Familiarity with church liturgy and choral repertoire helpful but not required
Experience working collaboratively in a team-based environment
Alignment with LUMC’s inclusive, progressive, and welcoming theological identity
Key Responsibilities
Musical
Plan and select music for traditional worship services in collaboration with pastoral staff, ensuring music supports the liturgy and lectionary throughout the year.
Direct the Chancel Choir, including weekly rehearsals and performances at Sunday services and special events.
Recruit and retain Chancel Choir members; recruit and hire paid section leaders.
Engage soloists, small ensembles, and a summer choir to provide music during summer months.
Coordinate and direct special presentations, including collaborations with other choirs and guest ensembles (e.g., Dublin Silver Band).
Provide music for special services (Christmas, Holy Week, funerals, weddings, etc.) as requested by the Senior Pastor.
Direct the Handbell Choir if that responsibility is not filled by a separate position.
Administrative
Serve as the Traditional Music staff representative to the Worship Planning Committee.
Coordinate regular meetings of music staff with pastoral staff and other church staff.
Prepare an annual budget for the traditional worship music program.
Order music and maintain the choral library with the assistance of other music staff and/or volunteers.
Serve on search committees for music positions as requested.
Hire instrumentalists for special occasions and coordinate presentations by outside groups.
Position Details
Type: Permanent, Part-Time
Hours: Approximately 15 hours per week (time demands vary seasonally)
Status: Salaried, Non-Exempt
Location: Linworth UMC, Columbus, OH (in-person presence required)
About Linworth UMC
Linworth United Methodist Church is a welcoming and inclusive congregation located in Columbus, Ohio. Our mission is to empower one another to share that “God is love, you are loved, and all are welcome here.” We are guided by four core values: evolving faith, authentic relationships, global justice, and inclusive community.
Music is woven into the life of this congregation. Our traditional worship service features the Chancel Choir, pipe organ, and a rich repertoire of hymns and choral music spanning centuries. The person who joins our music staff will find an engaged, loyal community that shows up week after week and genuinely loves to sing.
To Apply
Interested candidates should submit a resume and a cover letter to Employment@LinworthUMC.org. In your cover letter, please share a brief description of your conducting philosophy and what draws you to music ministry in a church setting. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
