Choral Section Leader

St. Austin Catholic Church•Austin, TX

8h•Onsite

About The Position

The Choral Section Leader provides musical leadership, vocal support, and positive mentorship within an assigned section of the choir. This role helps strengthen ensemble quality by modeling excellent musicianship, preparing music thoroughly, supporting rehearsals and performances, and encouraging volunteer singers with professionalism and respect. Positions employed at St. Austin Catholic Parish help to extend the ministry of the Pastor in particular ways as outlined in the job description. Therefore, the employee in this position is closely connected to and assists the Pastor in the performance of his ministry and thereby engages in ministry for the Church.

Requirements

Strong vocal technique and reliable musicianship, including accurate pitch, rhythm, tone, breath support, and diction.
Ability to read music fluently and learn repertoire independently.
Experience singing in choirs, ensembles, worship settings, academic choirs, community choruses, or professional vocal groups.
Ability to blend within an ensemble while providing clear leadership within the section.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
Dependability, punctuality, preparation, and a professional attitude.
High School Diploma or GED acceptable to Texas Education Agency.
Zero to two (2) years of related full time wage earning experience.
English (proficient in conversing, reading, and writing)
Must be a practicing Roman Catholic in good standing.
Valid Texas driver’s license.
Must maintain compliance with the Diocese of Austin Ethics and Integrity in Ministry (EIM) policies throughout the employment period.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with the organization’s musical style, worship tradition, or Paulist mission preferred.

Responsibilities

Provide confident, accurate vocal leadership for the assigned section during rehearsals (7:00pm-9:00pm on Wednesday evenings) and Mass (Sunday 11:30am call time 10:30am)
Prepare assigned music in advance and model strong pitch, rhythm, diction, phrasing, blend, tone, and ensemble awareness.
Assist the Choir Director by reinforcing musical instructions, answering basic section questions, and helping singers learn their parts.
Lead or assist with sectional rehearsals as requested.
Take notes on musical details such as breathing, pronunciation, dynamics, entrances, and phrasing, and share them with section members as appropriate.
Serve as a soloist or small-ensemble singer when requested and mutually agreed upon.
Encourage punctuality, preparation, and positive participation among choir members.
Communicate concerns, attendance issues, or musical challenges to the Choir Director in a timely and constructive manner.
Help create a welcoming, collaborative, and respectful rehearsal environment for singers of varying experience levels.
Arrange for an approved substitute when unable to attend a required rehearsal or liturgy, according to organizational policy.
Other duties as assigned.