Positions Available

Westhampton Congregational Church UCC, 1 Tob Hill Rd., Westhampton MA 01027

What: Organist and accompanist
Where: Westhampton Congregational Church,
UCC, 1 Tob Hill Rd., Westhampton MA 01027
Contact: (413) 527-4204, westhamptonchurchucc@comcast.net
Description: The position will be available starting in June 2024. We are ideally seeking a
single person; though we are open to hiring two people to share the role. Anyone
interested can submit their resume and cover letter by email or USPS. Interviews will begin
in middle to late April. Standard expectations for this position will be for one Sunday
service and one weekday rehearsal per week. Sunday worship is at 10am, changing to 9 am
in the summer. Choir rehearsal is currently held on Thursday nights. The organist will be
paid monthly based on number of services performed. The weekly payment by the church
is determined at each annual meeting. Current pay rate is $150 per week. Performances
for other Worship Services, (including Christmas Eve, Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday,
etc..) shall be prepared for and performed professionally. Payment is equal to a Sunday
service. Weddings shall be performed as requested with renumeration paid by the couple.
The rate is defined by the church’s Building Use Policy, which is currently a flat fee of $150
($175 with soloist) will be assessed. The organist will have the first option to play when the
organ is the primary instrument used. The organ may be used by outside organists only by
special permission from the Music Director. A $50 bench fee will be payable to the organist
by the couple if they request an outside organist. Funerals and memorials shall be
performed as requested, following the Building Use Policy. Special requests and selections,
as well as program content, shall be coordinated with the pastor. Appropriate
renumeration will be paid directly to the organist by the family or funeral home. The organ
may be used by outside organists only by special permission from the Music Director.
While we believe in freedom of conscience, it is expected that all employees will support
the mission and values of Westhampton Congregational United Church of Christ when
functioning in their position. These values are outlined in the church’s Mission Statement.
We further expect that employees will present a professional demeanor and will work to
address any issues that arise, both proactively and in a healthy manner. This position is
supervised by the Music Director. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Provide appropriate
and spirit-filled music for Sunday services, special worship services and other church
related events; Rehearse with and accompany choirs and soloists, as needed; Be available
and have first option to provide music for all weddings, memorials and funerals for which
such music is requested. QUALIFICATIONS: Proficient in playing the pipe organ and piano;
Skilled in playing both congregational hymns and solo preludes and postludes; Practiced in
accompanying choirs and soloists; Ability to perform a wide range of musical styles and
tempos; Knowledge of standard keyboard repertoire; Strong sight-reading skills;
Willingness to work as part of the music staff. OPTIONAL ADDITIONAL COMPETENCIES:
Familiarity with congregational protestant worship service; Ability to play other musica instruments