Job Description of a Music Director

What exactly is the job of a church music director? In some circles, music directors have come to be called “the music man.” I don’t particularly like that term because it implies that those charged with the duty of church music should keep their noses out of other areas. If that is true, then those other areas have little to do with music. Hence, we find ourselves in a church culture that doesn’t connect musical choices with . . . say, theology!

Below are some suggested duties of the music pastor (one who uses music in his pastoral ministry). These duties may vary according to the abilities of the music director and may be delegated. In churches where the music director is female, some of these duties may need to be carried out by a knowledgeable deacon or layman.

• Responsibility for the orders of service (published or unpublished). This should be done in cooperation with the senior pastor.
• Scheduling of special music, accompanists, instrumentalists, and song leaders.
• Rehearsal of choirs, small groups and soloists where necessary.
• Setting of policies, including dress standards, rehearsal attendance, and participation
• Teaching congregation a biblical philosophy of music and worship
• Constant evaluation of music selection and choices in all ministries of the church (Sunday School classes, mid-week services, outreach programs, etc.)
• Developing relationships with those involved in the music program for the purpose of encouraging and shepherding.

This is a partial list. Obviously, as church members, the music director frequently does non-musical items that may not fall under the title of music director. What are your thoughts? I welcome discussion.