Music Director

Catholic Diocese of Memphis•Somerville, TN

About The Position

St. Philip the Apostle Catholic Church seeks a skilled and faith-filled Music Director to lead, coordinate, and enhance the parish’s music ministry in support of the sacred liturgy. The Music Director is responsible for planning and providing music that is prayerful, pastorally appropriate, and consistent with the teachings and liturgical norms of the Roman Catholic Church and the Diocese of Memphis. This position plays a vital role in fostering full, conscious, and active participation of the assembly in worship.

Requirements

Practicing Roman Catholic in good standing, with a clear understanding of and respect for Catholic liturgy and theology.
Strong proficiency in organ and/or piano, with the ability to lead congregational singing.
Knowledge of Catholic liturgical music and familiarity with the Church’s liturgical year.
Ability to work collaboratively with clergy, staff, volunteers, and parishioners.
Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills.

Nice To Haves

Degree in music, sacred music, liturgy, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
Prior experience as a Music Director or church musician in a Catholic parish.
Experience directing choirs and training cantors.

Responsibilities

Plan, select, and prepare music for all parish liturgies, including Sunday Masses, Holy Days of Obligation, weddings, funerals, and other sacramental or devotional services as requested.
Ensure that all music selections conform to the General Instruction of the Roman Missal (GIRM), diocesan guidelines, and the Church’s liturgical calendar.
Collaborate closely with the Pastor and parish staff in liturgical planning, including seasonal celebrations (Advent, Christmas, Lent, Triduum, Easter, etc.).
Recruit, train, and direct parish choirs, cantors, and instrumentalists.
Schedule and lead rehearsals to prepare quality sacred music that supports congregational singing.
Foster a welcoming and prayerful environment for volunteers of varying musical skill levels.
Serve as principal accompanist (organ and/or piano) for liturgies or coordinate qualified substitute musicians as needed.
Maintain proficiency in sacred repertoire, including traditional hymns, psalmody, and approved contemporary liturgical music.
Maintain the parish music library, including hymnals, sheet music, and copyrights.
Ensure compliance with music licensing requirements (e.g., OneLicense, CCLI, as applicable).
Assist in preparing and managing the music ministry budget, in collaboration with the Pastor.
Coordinate music for weddings and funerals in consultation with families and clergy, according to parish policy.