Director of Music Ministries

5/1/2026 First United Methodist Church of Cherryville is seeking a gifted and enthusiastic Director of Music Ministries to help lead and grow the musical life of our congregation. Located in the heart of a friendly small town, First UMC offers a meaningful opportunity for someone who loves worship, enjoys working with people, and wants to make a visible difference in the life of a church and community. This is an upbeat and challenging position for a person who can honor traditional worship while helping develop new music ministry opportunities for children, youth, and adults. The Director of Music Ministries will lead the Sanctuary Choir, help plan music for Sunday worship and special services, and work closely with the pastor, accompanists, staff, and volunteers to provide music that supports the message, season, and spirit of worship. The role calls for musical skill, Christian commitment, organizational ability, and a welcoming spirit that encourages others to participate. Primary Responsibilities The Director of Music Ministries will: Direct the Sanctuary Choir for Sunday worship and special services. Prepare and lead weekly choir rehearsals. Work with the pastor and accompanists to select music appropriate to scripture, sermon themes, and the Christian calendar. Help plan music for Christmas, Easter, Holy Week, and other special services. Work with the Director of Christian Education for Children and Youth to develop music opportunities for K–12 students. Recruit, welcome, encourage, and train new musicians. Coordinate soloists, ensembles, instrumentalists, handbells, and other special music as appropriate. Communicate with sound technicians and worship leaders so music is well prepared for worship. Maintain music supplies and help administer the music budget. Attend worship planning meetings as needed. Desired Characteristics The successful candidate should: Love Jesus Christ and have a heart for meaningful worship. Enjoy working with people of different ages, backgrounds, and musical abilities. Be able to organize, equip, and inspire volunteer musicians. Communicate clearly and positively. Work well as part of a ministry team. Bring energy, patience, creativity, and good humor to the work. Embrace First UMC’s spirit of Open Hearts. Open Minds. Open Doors. Qualifications Music degree preferred, but relevant experience will be considered. Demonstrated ability to lead, organize, and motivate volunteer musicians. Commitment to Christian example and church ministry. Background check and Safe Sanctuary Training required. Review and Employment The Director of Music Ministries will be hired by the Pastor Parish Relations Committee in consultation with the pastor. The position includes a 90-day trial period, annual review, and vacation allowance consistent with church policy. Interested applicants may contact the church office at View phone number on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr Western North Carolina Conference