The successful candidate for this position will be a 1099 contractor with Music Ministry International and be responsible for the following:
Playing by ear for a gospel congregation involves a combination of musical skills and personal qualities. Here are the key requirements:
1. Strong Musical Ear:
Pitch Recognition: Ability to accurately identify and reproduce notes and chords by ear.
Harmonic Understanding: Ability to recognize and play chord progressions and harmonies commonly used in gospel music.
2. Improvisational Skills:
Flexibility: Capability to adapt to spontaneous changes in the music or arrangement during worship.
Creativity: Skill in creating spontaneous variations and embellishments that enhance the worship experience.
3. Familiarity with Gospel Music:
Genre Knowledge: Understanding of gospel music styles, rhythms, and common progressions.
Repertoire: Familiarity with popular gospel songs and hymns, as well as the ability to quickly learn new ones.
4. Strong Accompaniment Skills:
Chording: Ability to play chords that support vocalists and other musicians.
Rhythm and Groove: Ability to maintain the rhythm and contribute to the overall groove of the music.
5. Effective Communication:
Listening: Ability to listen attentively to the congregation and adjust playing to match their energy and needs.
Collaboration: Skill in working with vocalists, choir members, and other musicians to create a cohesive performance.
6. Technical Proficiency:
Keyboard Skills: Mastery of piano techniques and fingerings to execute complex gospel passages smoothly.
Sight-Reading (Optional): While playing by ear is the focus, being able to sight-read can be useful for learning new pieces quickly.
7. Spiritual Sensitivity:
Connection to Worship: Ability to play in a way that enhances the spiritual atmosphere and supports the congregation's worship experience.
Empathy: Understanding the emotional and spiritual needs of the congregation and responding musically to them.
8. Preparation and Practice:
Regular Practice: Consistent practice to hone ear training, improvisation, and repertoire.
Preparation: Familiarity with the structure of the service and the specific needs for each worship segment.
Overall, playing by ear for a gospel congregation requires a blend of technical skill, deep musical understanding, and the ability to connect with and enhance the worship experience.
9. These services require 52 weekly services, 52 weekly rehearsals, and up to 16 special events (either rehearsal or service) yearly.
Interested Candidates are requested to forward their resume together with three references from individuals who can attest to the candidate’s good work and steadiness. Candidates who do not possess the specific attributes/qualifications above need not apply. This is a part-time position with compensation based on budget and the successful candidate’s experience and qualifications.
Apply directly at: https://music-ministry.jobsoid.com (scroll down to “Fort Hood Chapel”) in order to expedite your application. Your application requires providing reference information for (3) individuals including one priest or pastor who can attest to your abilities as they relate to this job posting. References must include: name, title, organization, relationship to you, email address (necessary field) and phone number. Depending on security software, candidates are requested to monitor spam folders for further application communications from MMI.