Organist & Choirmaster Vacancy - Wellpark Mid Kirk, Greenock

ORGANIST & CHOIRMASTER

Wellpark Mid Kirk is regarded as the town church and is used for civic services such as the annual “Kirkin’ of the Council” and Remembrance services. It is the oldest church within Greenock still in its original site and dates back to 1761.

The church has a 3 manual, pneumatic pipe organ, built by Foster & Andrews and installed in 1867 and fully restored in 2008 with the assistance of Historic Scotland. It has been described as a magnificent organ and a key feature of the church. There is also a piano within the sanctuary. Our organ can be heard on our YouTube channel in our Livestreams and Shorts.

We have a small choir which practises prior to church services. The successful applicant would be expected to lead and guide this group in the introit and a simple anthem in addition to solo organ pieces at the beginning and end of worship. Sunday services are live streamed on YouTube.

The successful candidate will lead the congregation in song during Sunday services. There would also be occasional additional services together with weddings and funerals. We mainly use CH4 but occasionally introduce more contemporary material. The minister chooses the hymns, but the organist has autonomy when choosing the introit and a short anthem which is sung during the collection of the offering.

A formal qualification would be desirable but not vital as longas applicants can demonstrate their competency, together with two references, one of which should support their musical ability.

The church of Scotland model contract and the most recent Scottish Federation of Organists salary scales will apply.

Please contact our Interim Moderator, Rev. Stephen Smith, should you wish an informal discussion regarding the post (email: ssmith@churchofscotland.org.uk).

Applications, together with details of previous experience, should be sent to Rose Sloan, Session Clerk (email: rosekatersloan@gmail.com)

Wellpark Mid Kirk, Cathcart Square, Greenock PA15 1LS

Tel. 01475 721147

Interim Moderator: Rev Stephen Smith

Registered Scottish Charity Number SC001043

A full job description can be downloaded here