Date Posted: 4/13/2026
Salado United Methodist Church, Salado, TX
Job Description
Salado United Methodist Church
PIANIST
Job Description
Principal Function
The Church Pianist helps to fulfill the mission of our church by providing piano music and accompaniment for scheduled worship services and other activities in support of the music ministry of the church. Having a pivotal role in the musical life of the church, this individual is a strong team player, being a full partner with the Director of Music and the church’s Worship Team.
Job Description
This part-time year-round position is per event-based pay rate. Expectation of attendance is for Sunday worship services, rehearsals with the Sanctuary Choir, and other special services, including (but not limited to) Community Thanksgiving Service, Christmas Eve, Christmas (when it lands on Sunday), Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter. The work is done cooperatively, especially with the Music Director.
Job Requirements
- Experience in church worship, with both piano and other music and hymnody (understanding and familiarity with blended worship expected)
- Flexibility to play in blended style worship services (incorporating both traditional and more modern music)
- Knowledge of the instrument and keyboard ability sufficient to play hymns, modern songs and anthem accompaniments. Ability to sight-read and improvise is desired.
- High degree of competence on piano, and the ability to accompany groups and individuals
- Knowledge of basic music theory and ability to perform simple transpositions or re- harmonization.
- Ability to read chord charts and lead sheets.
- Willingness to rehearse sufficiently to maintain a high quality of music.
- Sensitivity and the ability to interact with a variety of people.
- Ability to take direction and work as a team member.
- Ability to communicate well and in a friendly manner with the church leadership, church choir and orchestra, and members of the congregation.
- Desire to maintain a constant program of self-improvement.
Accountability
The Pianist is accountable to the Director of Music as head of the Worship and Music Ministry of the church. This individual will need to notify the Director of Music a minimum of three weeks prior to planned absences (preferably as soon as known) to allow for scheduling of a substitute pianist. The applicant is required to have a background check and be Ministry Safe. An annual performance review will be done.
Responsibilities:
- Support the church’s worship environment through the well-prepared execution of music presented by the choir, orchestra, and other musicians for services.
- Serve as accompanist for the Sanctuary Choir in regular and special rehearsals and performances as assigned such as conference events, cantatas, and fundraisers.
- Facilitate congregational singing and worship through the excellent execution of hymns and other songs.
- Plan, select, and prepare preludes, postludes, introits, and offertories, according to the needs of the worship services.
- Serve as accompanist for other choirs, ensembles, and soloists, when needed.
- Funerals and memorials as requested based on availability and are event-based pay at an established rate.
- Maintain an accurate account of piano needs and maintenance and notify Director of Music if there are any concerns or issues.
- Assist the Director of Music in finding a substitute for Sundays and Wednesdays when not available.
Pay Rate
Negotiable, consistent with candidate’s education, experience, and skill level.
How to Apply
To apply for this position, email resume to Tammye Bass @ tbass@saladoumc.org.
Contact Email: tbass@saladoumc.org
Contact Phone: 254-947-5482