Music Director Search
We are currently looking for a new Music Director.
After 11 wonderful years as our Organist/Choir Director, Larry Gates has retired.
Director of Music Ministries & Organist
St. Clement’s by-the-Sea Episcopal Church – San Clemente, California
St. Clement’s by-the-Sea is a vibrant Episcopal parish located in the beautiful coastal community
of San Clemente, California. Founded in 1929 and recognized as the city’s first historic site, our
church reflects a classic Mission-style architecture and a deeply rooted tradition of worship,
outreach, and radical welcome. As we affirm on the cover of our bulletins and in other places on
our campus: “This church of ours is open to all...there will be no outcasts”i
With an average Sunday attendance of approximately 150, the parish offers three weekly services:
• 8:00 a.m. – Spoken Rite with reflective instrumental music
• 10:00 a.m. – Principal Choral Eucharist (English)
• 12:00 p.m. – Spanish-language service (music led separately by adjunct musicians)
Music plays a central role in the worship life of St. Clement’s, particularly at the 10:00 a.m.
service, where we celebrate both classical Anglican repertoire and thoughtfully selected modern
sacred works. The parish also supports a growing music ministry that includes occasional
concerts, special liturgies, and a monthly Taizé service (music led by adjunct professionals).
Position Summary
The Director of Music Ministries is a part-time staff position responsible for the artistic,
liturgical, and administrative leadership of music at St. Clement’s. Working collaboratively with
the Rector, this individual will shape a music program that supports Episcopal liturgy, enriches
congregational singing, and inspires spiritual engagement.
Primary Responsibilities
Liturgical Music Leadership
• Plan and lead music for the 10:00 a.m. principal Sunday service, including hymns, service music, anthems, and voluntaries, in coordination with the Rector
• Provide instrumental music for the 8:00 a.m. service (at offertory and Communion)
• Play organ and/or piano for all assigned services and special liturgies (e.g., Christmas, Holy Week, Easter, and other Feast Days)
• Select music consistent with the Episcopal tradition, liturgical calendar, and the parish’s inclusive theology
Choir Direction
• Direct and develop a volunteer choir supported by paid section leaders
• Lead weekly choir rehearsals (currently on Sundays)
• Foster a welcoming, engaging, and musically rewarding environment for singers of varying skill levels
• Recruit, mentor, and retain choir members and section leaders
Program Development & Special Music
• Coordinate and contract guest musicians for major services (e.g., brass for Easter, strings for Christmas, Irish musicians for our annual Celtic Sunday)
• Support and collaborate on parish music offerings such as concerts and special services (e.g., Taizé, seasonal programs)
• Collaborate with parish staff and volunteers on the youth Christmas music program
Pastoral & Parish Life Support
• Provide or coordinate music for weddings, funerals, and other special services (additional compensation provided)
• Serve as a visible and engaged member of parish life, supporting the spiritual and communal mission of the church
Administration & Operations
• Manage the music ministry budget in consultation with the Rector
• Arrange for qualified substitute musicians when absent
• Maintain regular communication with clergy, staff, and parishioners
• Oversee the care and appropriate use of musical instruments
Instruments & Resources
• Galanti Chronicler III organ (53-stop rocker console, installed 2002)
• Factory restored 1914 Blüthner grand piano
• Four octaves of handbells
• Choral library of classical and modern anthems
• Volunteer choir with professional section leaders and skilled parish musicians
Qualifications & Attributes
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Music (performance, sacred music, or related field preferred)
• Demonstrated proficiency in organ and piano performance
• Familiarity with Episcopal liturgy, Anglican hymnody, and sacred choral repertoire
• Experience directing choirs, including volunteer ensembles
• Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills
• Ability to collaborate effectively with clergy, staff, and volunteers
• Creative, flexible, and responsive to the needs of a dynamic parish
• Comfort working within an inclusive, theologically progressive Episcopal community
Compensation
• Salary range: $40,000–$42,000 annually, commensurate with experience
• Part-time position; no benefits included
• Additional compensation provided for weddings, funerals, and special services
To Apply
Please submit a resume and cover letter to:
Director of Music Ministries Search Committee
St. Clement’s by-the-Sea Episcopal Church
MusicDirectorSearch@scbythesea.org
i The Most Rev. Edmund Browning, Emeritus Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church