Choral Section Leader

Description

The Choral Section Leader provides musical leadership, vocal support, and positive mentorship within an assigned section of the choir. This role helps strengthen ensemble quality by modeling excellent musicianship, preparing music thoroughly, supporting rehearsals and performances, and encouraging volunteer singers with professionalism and respect.

Ministerial Character

The Pastor is the visible principle and foundation of unity in the parish of St. Austin Catholic Parish which the Bishop has entrusted to him.  He makes Christ’s mission present and enduring in the parish.  In order to fulfill his mission, the Pastor employs suitable, chosen collaborators (clerics, religious, or lay people).  He shares with them his mission and entrusts various responsibilities to them.

Positions employed at St. Austin Catholic Parish help to extend the ministry of the Pastor in particular ways as outlined in the job description.  Therefore, the employee in this position is closely connected to and assists the Pastor in the performance of his ministry and thereby engages in ministry for the Church.

Key Responsibilities

• As an integral part of your ministry for the Church as carried out in this position, support and uphold the philosophy of Catholic ministry and the mission of St. Austin Catholic Parish in both your professional and personal life.
• Act as a witness to Gospel values by modeling the teachings of the Catholic Church.
• Continuously grow in your ministry by participating in religious ceremonies, training sessions, and reflection activities as directed.
• Provide confident, accurate vocal leadership for the assigned section during rehearsals (7:00pm-9:00pm on Wednesday evenings) and Mass (Sunday 11:30am call time 10:30am)
• Prepare assigned music in advance and model strong pitch, rhythm, diction, phrasing, blend, tone, and ensemble awareness.
• Assist the Choir Director by reinforcing musical instructions, answering basic section questions, and helping singers learn their parts.
• Lead or assist with sectional rehearsals as requested.
• Take notes on musical details such as breathing, pronunciation, dynamics, entrances, and phrasing, and share them with section members as appropriate.
• Serve as a soloist or small-ensemble singer when requested and mutually agreed upon.
• Encourage punctuality, preparation, and positive participation among choir members.
• Communicate concerns, attendance issues, or musical challenges to the Choir Director in a timely and constructive manner.
• Help create a welcoming, collaborative, and respectful rehearsal environment for singers of varying experience levels.
• Arrange for an approved substitute when unable to attend a required rehearsal or liturgy, according to organizational policy. 
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Qualifications  

• Strong vocal technique and reliable musicianship, including accurate pitch, rhythm, tone, breath support, and diction.
• Ability to read music fluently and learn repertoire independently.
• Experience singing in choirs, ensembles, worship settings, academic choirs, community choruses, or professional vocal groups.
• Ability to blend within an ensemble while providing clear leadership within the section.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Dependability, punctuality, preparation, and a professional attitude.
• Familiarity with the organization’s musical style, worship tradition, or Paulist mission preferred.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education and Trainings:

• High School Diploma or GED acceptable to Texas Education Agency.

Experience:

• Zero to two (2) years of related full time wage earning experience.

Language:

• English (proficient in conversing, reading, and writing)

Catholic Requirement:

• Must be a practicing Roman Catholic in good standing.

Licenses/Certifications:

• Valid Texas driver’s license.

• Must maintain compliance with the Diocese of Austin Ethics and Integrity in Ministry (EIM) policies throughout the employment period.

Schedule and Commitment

The Choral Section Leader is expected to attend scheduled rehearsals, performances, services, concerts, and special events as assigned. Additional sectionals, holiday services, or community events may be scheduled with advance notice. Regular attendance and advance preparation are essential to the success of the role. 

Working Conditions:

· All employees of the Parish are engaged in ministry and closely tied to the Pastor in the exercise of his ministry and obligations to the church. 

· The Parish is an at-will employer.

· All buildings and vehicles owned by the Parish are tobacco free.

· Working in a fast-paced environment with priorities and plans that may change rapidly.

· Working on weekends, evenings, and some holidays may be required.

· Will be exposed to religious ceremonies, conduct, and speech, including Roman Catholic Christian prayer and liturgical celebrations. 

· Will be required to adhere to established dress codes and conduct standards.

Compensation

Choral section leaders are paid on a per call basis. The rate is $60 per call.