Position Summary
Saint Joseph Catholic Church is seeking three Choral Scholars for the 2025–2026 academic year. Choral Scholars provide musical leadership within the Parish Adult Choir, serving as strong singers and role models of professionalism. This position offers valuable ensemble experience in a vibrant parish setting, exposure to a wide range of sacred repertoire, and the opportunity to develop professional experience in sacred music leadership.
Compensation
$2,500 stipend per scholar (per academic year), paid in two lump installments (December 2025 and May 2026). Scholars are expected to commit to the choir’s regular schedule, with reasonable flexibility around academic breaks and exam periods.
Responsibilities
- Sing weekly with the Parish Adult Choir at the 9:00 am Sunday Mass (except when otherwise noted by the Director of Music).
- Attend Tuesday evening rehearsals (7:00–8:30 pm).
- Participate in special parish liturgies and events (Christmas, Holy Week, Lessons & Carols, Vespers, etc.).
- Additional rehearsals for liturgies and events may be scheduled as needed.
- Offer confident singing and support for volunteer singers in your section.
- Model professionalism, preparation, and excellent ensemble skills.
Qualifications
- College or graduate student in vocal performance, music education, or a related field preferred; other strong singers (including recent graduates) will also be considered.
- Prior choral experience required; ability to sightread music and learn repertoire quickly.
- Familiarity with a range of sacred music styles, including chant, hymnody, polyphony, and contemporary sacred music, is helpful.
- Reliable, punctual, and able to commit fully to the choir’s schedule from September through May.
- Applicants must provide a résumé and one letter of recommendation that addresses professionalism, musical ability, and reliability.
Term of Service
Mid-September 2025 (or upon start date) through Pentecost Sunday, May 24, 2026.
Application & Audition
- Interested applicants should contact Peter Brown, Director of Music (peter.brown@churchofstjoseph.org | 651-263-8433).
- Optional: A résumé and one letter of recommendation may be submitted to strengthen your application.
- Audition Components:
- 1. Prepared Solo Piece – Classical, sacred, or art song of your choice, sung a cappella (unaccompanied).
- 2. Sight-Reading – Short excerpt provided at the audition.
- 3. Vocal Exercises – Range check, tonal memory, and scales.
- 4. Blend Test – Singing with the Director of Music to assess blend, intonation, and adaptability.
- 5. Brief Interview – Conversation with the Director of Music regarding professionalism, commitment, and fit for the parish choir.
- Auditions for qualified applicants will be ongoing until positions are filled.
