St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church is seeking a collaborative Director of Music to join our staff. This part-time, salaried position (10-12 hours/week) is responsible for selecting and performing music that supports our liturgical worship, and directing our adult choir.

We will prioritize applicants who have familiarity with Episcopal Liturgy, who are comfortable working with a choir and congregation to expand our musical repertoire and enliven our common life together.

Parish Identity: St. Stephen’s is a vibrant, family-size parish located five minutes off CT Route 9, just up the street from the Goodspeed Opera House. Music is an integral part of our parish life, and an important way that we connect with God in prayer. We are a joyful and welcoming community that is open to the wiggles and giggles of small children and affirming of people of all ages, classes, race, gender, sexuality, beliefs and talents.

Timeline: Our Director of Music is retiring at the end of April, 2026. We desire to have a new Director of Music in place at the beginning of the program year which starts in early September. The ideal candidate would start onboarding in July. We welcome an earlier start and interim applicants.

Musical Leadership: Provide organ and piano music for 10:00 AM Sunday worship, including preludes, postludes, and other service music as appropriate. Our instruments include a 3-manual Rodgers Artist Series 589 organ (installed 2015) and a Yamaha Clavinova 585.

Choral Direction: Direct the adult choir (8-10 members) during the program year (September–May). This currently includes a one-hour Thursday rehearsal and a 30-minute Sunday morning warm-up.

Musical Selection: Choose hymns (typically from the 1982 Hymnal), anthems, and instrumental music that align with the Liturgical season and Revised Common Lectionary. These selections are made in regular conversation and collaboration with the Rector.

Special Services: Lead music for special events and services, including Advent Lessons & Carols, Christmas Eve, and Holy Week (Palm Sunday through Easter Day).

Administration: Manage music filing, order new music, and ensure copyright licenses are utilized properly. Schedule instrument maintenance and coordinate substitute organists for vacation Sundays.

Growth Potential: Our Children’s Ministry is growing. Our ideal candidate would be able to help us create a joyful space for children to grow and sing either alongside our adult choir or in a separate children’s choir.

Interim Compensation: $250-$300 per Sunday

Director of Music Compensation: Salary is $16,000-$20,000 annually, depending on experience, for 10-12 hours a week. 4 weeks of vacation, including 4 Sundays. The Director of Music reports to the Rector.

To Apply: Please send cover letter and resume, and links to any performances or other recordings you wish to share to office@ststeves.org and specify if you are applying for an interim position or long-term hire.