Position Overview
The feeling of peace and harmony, accentuated by subtle background music is something that one can only find in a church.
The music that heightens the beauty of going to church is all thanks to a church instrumentalist.
You will hardly find a church that plays prerecorded music – instrumentals within a church are part of the tradition that has been upheld for centuries.
A church instrumentalist is hired primarily to keep up this tradition.
The choice of instrument is usually a piano but lately, other instruments such as acoustic guitars, violins, and sophisticated keyboards have made their way in.
But it does not really matter which instrument is used. A church instrumentalist will provide the background score of religious songs and hymns so that church-goers can sing with each other in a harmonious fashion.
Usually, a church instrumentalist is chosen from a group of church members. So if your local church is hiring (and you have a knack for music), you might consider looking into applying.
As an instrumentalist, you will not only be required to play music but create soulful compositions and practice them with the choir.
Additionally, you will be required to practice your music for events such as baptisms, weddings, congregations, and christenings. So you will need to know about the type of music that goes with each church event.
Position Requirements
There are no specific requirements to work as a church instrumentalist. If you love music, believe in the sanctity of the church, and can play an instrument that the church approves of.
Church Instrumentalist Duties, Tasks, and Responsibilities
• Obtain information about the day’s functions, events, and prayer times.
• Plan music background scores for each event in accordance with the church’s protocols.
• Rehearse music and timelines for weddings, christenings, and baptisms.
• Confer with the presiding pastor to determine the type of music that is appropriate for each event.
• Create music sheets and practice scores according to them.
• Play instrument of choice (violin, acoustic guitar, or piano) by following prescribed event timings.
• Practice specific music notes for special services such as masses, revivals, and seasonal programs such as Christmas and Easter.
• Coordinate efforts with the church choir and create shows worthy of the church’s standing and stature.
• Direct choirs and orchestras so that they can perform according to practice sessions.
• Ensure that all church instruments are cleaned and maintained on a daily basis and put away properly.
• Compose original music for church songs and hymns.