Everything from the Plainfield Symphony to P-Funk has a chapter in the city's musical story and its churches provide a very large component of musical legend, from the Pittis carillon at Grace Church to the gospel heritage that is played out every week in the spiritual nourishment of numerous congregations.
I began attending the First Unitarian Society of Plainfield in the early 1980s and have always enjoyed the music provided by its dedicated choir members and its talented music directors. At present, the church is seeking a new director. Whoever gets the job will find very appreciative listeners and participants at Sunday services and will get to know the many talented individuals who share their less formal musical expressions in a number of contexts.
I never actually joined the church by "signing the book," as the UUs require, but I have always found FUSP to be as close to a church home as I am ever likely to get. At present, the church is looking for a new music director and as a favor I agreed to publish something on the blog about the opportunity. Here is their ad:
First Unitarian Society of Plainfield Seeks Music Director
The First Unitarian Society of Plainfield, NJ, is seeking a Music Director, 10 to 20 hours per week for up to 42 Sundays/year, starting August, 2011. The work schedule is negotiable, but runs roughly from August to mid-June.
We seek a candidate who can help us grow our music program and encourage congregational participation, a collaborative “people” person and a skilled music educator.
Duties include planning and overseeing the music program in consultation with the Minister, regular choral or ensemble rehearsals, direction for three Sunday services per month, and occasional special music programs.
Candidates should be competent in piano and voice, be comfortable with a variety of musical styles, have good administrative skills, and be willing to work with the Minister in service preparation and other church activities. Experience with organ, guitar, and other instruments is desirable.
Qualifications: Choral directing experience, knowledge of choral repertoire, ability to work with instrumentalists and other congregational or outside musicians. Familiarity with Unitarian Universalism highly desirable.
Salary range: $10,000 to $15,500
To apply or for more information, please contact John Hawkins at johnhawkins40@gmail.com.
--Bernice
Bernice: speaking of music and the Pittis Carillon, the Maidens in May House tour on Sunday which includes Grace Episcopal Church and concludes with a reception there for all ticket holders will feature performances on the church organ and on the carillon. Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 day of - proceeds benefit medical transportation in Plainfield. Also, FOSH garage sale Saturday and Sunday. 80 plus homes.
ReplyDeleteBernice,
ReplyDeleteIf you feel that committed to FUSP, I encourage you to join. There's nothing like enjoying the warmth and comfort of the fire while sitting in front of it, rather than from looking through someone's window.
No matter how comfortable you feel in their company, you are called to fellowship with the brethren, which is a more demanding yet intimate commitment with your fellow church brethren (Heb. 10:26).
Glad to read of your happiness.
Pen
"I don't want to belong to any club that will accept me as a member." (Groucho.1959)
ReplyDelete