Organist

Organist

St. Joseph Catholic Church, Columbia , South Carolina

Position Overview
St. Joseph Catholic Church seeks a highly skilled and collaborative Organist to support the liturgical and musical life of a vibrant parish community. This full-time position plays a vital role in enhancing worship through sacred music rooted in the Catholic tradition. The Organist works closely under the direction of the Director of Music and Pastor to plan and
execute music for liturgies, sacraments, and parish celebrations, while contributing to the continued growth of a dynamic and expanding music ministry.
St. Joseph is a thriving parish of over 1,400 families with a deep commitment to the beauty of Catholic liturgy and sacred music. With a long-standing tradition of choral excellence and an
ambitious vision for the future, including a landmark organ installation, the parish seeks a candidate who will help lead its music ministry into its next chapter.
St. Joseph Catholic Church is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes candidates committed to supporting the mission of the Catholic Church.
A Transformational Moment in Music Ministry. This is a unique opportunity to join a parish at an exciting moment in its musical and physical development.


• St. Joseph has selected Mascioni Organs of Azzio Italy, one of the oldest Organ builders in the world, to build a new pipe organ for the parish
• The instrument will be a three-manual organ with approximately 52 Ranks - 2,744 pipes (See stop list attached)
• A 6ft balcony expansion project is planned to support the installation and growth of the music program
• The Mascioni instrument will be the first Mascioni organ ever installed in North America
This project reflects the parish's deep commitment to sacred music and long-term liturgical excellence.


Primary Responsibilities

Liturgical Leadership
• Serve as principal organist for all weekend Masses and Holy Days (4)
• Provide music for major liturgies including but not limited to:
o Christmas, Easter, and the Paschal Triduum
o Ash Wednesday and solemn feast days
o First Holy Communions, Confirmations, and Diocesan Liturgies (compensated
separately)


Prepare and perform organ repertoire appropriate to the liturgical season

Music Ministry Collaboration
• Collaborate under the Director of Music and Pastor on liturgical planning
• Participate in regular staff and music ministry meetings
• Contribute to the continued growth of a comprehensive and collaborative sacred music program Choir & Accompaniment
• Accompany parish choirs, cantors, and ensembles during Masses and rehearsals weekly
• Fill in for Director of Music in the event of sickness or absence


Special Liturgies and Events
• Provide music for weddings, funerals, and special Diocesan Masses (compensated separately for these services)


Professional Development
• Maintain a high level of musical excellence and preparation through weekly practice
(guaranteed time is reserved weekly in the Sanctuary throughout the workday)
• Stay current with developments in sacred music and Catholic liturgy via involvement with National organizations


Administrative Responsibilities
• Stay informed about parish-wide events scheduled on the parish calendar in order to avoid practice and rehearsal conflicts.
• Maintain awareness of the master music planning database, including weekly hymns, anthems, Mass settings, and other liturgical music selections.
• Review the cantor schedule regularly in order to coordinate and schedule rehearsal times before Masses.


Qualifications
• Bachelor's degree in organ performance, sacred music, or related field (required)
• Strong proficiency in organ performance and liturgical accompaniment
• Knowledge of Catholic liturgy and sacramental life
• Experience working collaboratively in a parish setting
• Ability to accompany advanced choral repertoire with ample advanced notice
• Good sightreading abilities as needed for last minute changes to weekend music
• Ability to improvise or utilize reharmonizations for hymns, and other pieces to facilitate
smooth transitions in liturgical moments (Gospel Acclamations, incensing of the Altar,
Processionals, Recessionals, Communion, clearing of the Altar, etc.)


Compensation & Benefits
• Salary: $45,000.00-$66,000.00, commensurate with experience, with an hourly option
available. Additional compensation opportunities are offered for weddings and funerals.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance (50% employer-paid premiums)
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer match
• Paid vacation including:
o Standard vacation time, which includes 5 weekends off annually


Continuing Education:
o $2,000 annually for professional development conferences, membership,
workshops, etc.


Schedule
• Approximately 30- 35 hours per week
• Includes weekends, major liturgies, and one weeknight rehearsal (currently on Wednesday)


Application Process

Qualified candidates are invited to submit :
• Cover letter
• Resume or curriculum vitae
• Three professional references

All application submissions should be sent to search committee Co-Chair: Adrienne Carroll, Business Manager @ View email address on click.appcast.io

All questions about the position should be directed to the search committee Co-Chair: Worth Lewallen, Director of Music @ View email address on click.appcast.io

ALL APPLICATANTS, PLEASE USE THE ABOVE EMAIL ADDRESS TO SUBMIT THE REQUIRED INFORMATION. DO NOT USE THE APPLY BUTTON


Work Authorization:
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire. The Diocese of Charleston does not provide visa sponsorship. Successful candidates will be required to complete Form I-9 and present acceptable documentation verifying identity and employment authorization.