Parish of Trinity Church Halifax is seeking a Music Scholar – Keyboardist to assist the Director of Music in leadership of spirited choral worship in the Anglican Tradition.
Job Description: Music Scholar - Keyboardist
Trinity Anglican Church, 321 Main Ave
The Trinity Church ‘Music Scholar – Keyboardist’ assists the Director of Music in leadership of spirited choral worship in the Anglican Tradition. The Music Scholar accompanies the Sunday choir and additional musicians on the organ and/or piano. A mix of traditional and folk hymns, the music is dynamic, responsive, immediate, heartfelt, and inclusive of the diverse cultural and evangelical backgrounds of the growing and diversifying membership of Trinity Church. The choir is a mix of amateur and professional singers, ranging in age, background, and experience. By providing organ and/or piano accompaniment, the Music Scholar assists the Music Director in building up the choir through education in choral skills, vocal technique, and liturgical music leadership, and in re-invigorating congregational singing through choral leadership and music education. The ‘Music Scholar Keyboardist’ reports to the Director of Music.
KEYBOARD SKILLS:
• The Music Scholar must demonstrate EITHER proficiency on the organ OR a high level of piano proficiency and willingness to learn organ skills (mentorship opportunities provided).
• Strong sight-reading skills
• Keyboard harmony skills (e.g. reading lead sheets, harmonizing melodies, improvising)
• Familiarity with traditional Anglican worship music an asset (e.g. Anglican chant)
• Choral singing ability an asset – invitation to join the choir on unaccompanied hymns and anthems.
OTHER SKILLS/ASSETS:
• Embraces musical attitude of reciprocity and responsiveness
• Willingness to collaborate and experiment
• Ability to take musical direction
• Good communication skills
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
• The Music Scholar is expected to come prepared for all rehearsals and services. They will receive a draft music list 2-3mos in advance with finalized choices 1-2 weeks in advance of service dates.
• Attend Thursday evening rehearsals (7-8:30pm) and Sunday services (9:00 call for 10:00am choral worship).
• Accompany choir and collaborate with additional musicians under leadership of Music Director.
• Occasional assistance with admin tasks, e.g. photocopying
CONTRACT:
• Start date Thursday, Sept 26, 2024 (preferred)
• 10-month contract with 8-week trial period
REMUNERATION:
• Dependent on background and experience; range of $100-$125 per week
• Additional compensation for Holy Days (Christmas, Holy Week/Easter)
AUDITION REQUIREMENTS:
• For organists: one hymn; one 2-3min excerpt of a concert piece on Trinity Church organ (Allen 4900).
• For pianists: one hymn on organ; one 2-3min excerpt of a concert piece on digital piano (Yamaha Clavinova).
TO APPLY:
• Submit cover letter, CV, and two references (contact info only) to Karis Tees, Director of Music, karisteesmusic@gmail.com. Applications will remain open until the position is filled.
Released Monday, September 16, 2024.