Parish Music Director & Organist (Job Ref: 872-HGSJR

£50 per Mass £50 per hour (rehearsals) | Long-term Engagement | Freelance | St Joseph’s Church, Highgate | Closing date 24/07/2026 | Interview date to be confirmed w/c 17/08

Music Director Organist Job Description

Employee Rewards and Benefits 2026

About the Role

St Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church in Highgate is seeking a talented and committed Music Director & Organist to lead and enhance the musical life of our parish.

This is a rewarding opportunity for a skilled musician to work at the heart of a vibrant parish community, directing our voluntary choir and providing organ accompaniment for liturgies throughout the year.

Key Responsibilities

  • Direct and accompany the choir at the 10:00am and 12:00pm Sunday Masses (excluding August)
  • Lead music at major feasts and special services, including Christmas, Easter, Advent, and Holy Week liturgies
  • Plan and prepare music in line with the Catholic liturgical calendar
  • Deliver fortnightly choir rehearsals and additional rehearsals for major celebrations
  • Provide vocal coaching and support choir development
  • Encourage participation and recruitment within the choir
  • Maintain high standards of music-making to enrich parish worship
  • Identify organ maintenance needs and liaise as required
  • Arrange suitable cover for any absences

About the Choir & Music

You’ll be working with a welcoming and enthusiastic voluntary choir, many of whom learn by ear rather than reading music.

The role involves supporting singers with accessible learning methods (e.g. recordings and rehearsal resources), helping them grow in confidence and musical ability.

You will also have the opportunity to play a historic Grade I listed Hill & Son organ (1898)—a rare and distinguished instrument central to the church’s musical heritage.

Additional Opportunities

  • Paid opportunities to play at weddings, funerals, and special services
  • Potential involvement in organ recitals and fundraising events
  • Occasional support for the children’s choir at St Joseph’s School

What We’re Looking For

We’re seeking someone who is not only competent in music but who also embodies our diocesan values of Competence, Reliability, Honesty, Perseverance, and Love.We are looking for someone who:

  • Has professional experience playing the organ in a church setting
  • Can lead, motivate, and develop a choir
  • Is confident in planning and delivering liturgical music
  • Has a strong understanding of Catholic liturgy and musical traditions
  • Is able to work independently and collaboratively
  • Can lead congregational singing with confidence

Experience working in a faith-based or charitable setting is welcome but not essential.

What we offer you

In return for your hard work and commitment to us, you will receive a competitive reward package which will include, but is not limited to:

✔23 days annual leave + bank holidays (pro rata for part time employees)

✔Vouchers for free eye tests and £50 towards the cost of glasses

✔Reward Gateway scheme offering discounts on a wide range of products and services

✔Pension scheme for eligible employees – 5% paid by the employer

✔Salary exchange (salary sacrifice) for pension

✔Cycle to work scheme

✔Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay

✔Employee Assistance Programme

✔Life assurance/ Death in Service benefit

Who we are

We are the Roman Catholic Diocese of Westminster, a faith-driven charity rooted in service, tradition, and community.

At the core of our mission is a commitment to faith, education, and social justice. Guided by the Archbishop, we serve over 90,000 students across 208 schools, support 212 vibrant parishes, and drive countless social initiatives that bring hope and compassion to those in need. Our work extends beyond the Church walls, positively shaping communities and transforming lives.

We uphold the values of Competence, Reliability, Honesty, Perseverance, and Love—principles that define our mission and shape the way we serve. As we grow our team, we seek individuals who not only possess the skills for the role but also embody these values in their daily work.

If you are looking for a role where your talents, faith, and commitment to service can make a real difference, we would love to hear from you.

Diversity & Inclusion at the Diocese of Westminster and place it at the heart of our aim which is to reflect and connect with the diverse communities that we serve.