Trinity United Methodist Church
Organist/Pianist with possible Bell Choir direction
Overview
Trinity United Methodist Church (1024 Lake Avenue, Wilmette – known as the “Home Alone” movie church) is a welcoming community of compassion and faith. Trinity is currently seeking an exceptional organist and pianist to collaborate with the Director of Music Ministries/Chancel Choir Director with the option to add leadership of the Trinity Ringers Bell Choir for a qualified candidate. We are a reconciling (open and affirming) congregation that highly values music. Trinity Wilmette’s organ is one of the finest in the Chicago area – a 63-rank Reuter. To see the organ’s stop list [click here https://trinitywilmette.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Original-stoplist-for-Trinity-United-Methodist-Church.pdf].
Interested applicants should reply to trinityinfo@trinitywilmette.org and submit:
1) CV/Resume
2) One letter of recommendation
3) YouTube links to videos that demonstrate organ performance, hymn/service music playing, and piano accompanying
February 15 – application reviews commence. Applications accepted until position filled.
June 1 or September 1 start date, negotiable.
Desired Qualifications
• A degree in music/organ or the equivalent advanced study in organ performance.
• Extensive experience playing hymns and choosing/playing music for worship.
• Experience as a choral accompanist and collaborative pianist.
• A strong commitment to personal faith and the ministry of Trinity United Methodist Church.
• Strong relational skills and spiritual sensitivity in dealing with the choir, other musicians, and the congregation and staff.
Position Description
• Approximately 10-12 hours a week
• One weekly Sunday service at 10:30am. Onsite time typically 9am – noon. Organist is responsible for choosing and playing prelude and postlude and other incidental music, and playing and assisting in choosing hymns and service music.
• Additional services Christmas Eve, Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter (2 services), and afternoon concerts as needed (typically twice a year).
• Accompany a wide variety of advanced choral repertoire for the Chancel Choir (4 paid soloists) at rehearsals (Thursdays, 7:30-9pm) and in service.
• Accompany soloists on piano and organ in advanced repertoire throughout the summer (May – August) and during the year as requested.
• Accompany the Trinity Youth Singers for service singing, typically 4 times a year.
• Participation in monthly worship planning meetings with the Director of Music Ministries and Pastor.
• When necessary, secure keyboard substitutes, in consultation with the Director of Music Ministries.
• Monitor condition of the keyboard instruments and scheduling repair and tunings when necessary.
Additional Opportunities
• Direct the Trinity Ringers Bell Choir in weekly rehearsals (Thursdays, 6:15-7:15pm) and in service, typically 4 times a year (additional compensation).
• First right of refusal for Weddings and Funerals (additional compensation).
• Provide optional organ concerts or recitals.
Salary and Benefits
• Salary commensurate with experience and exact duties as determined.
• Four Sundays paid time off.
• Additional unpaid leave as negotiated.
To apply for this job email your details to trinityinfo@trinitywilmette.org