JourneySongs is an interfaith hospice choir in Newton, Massachusetts, committed to singing at bedside for the comfort of people who are terminally ill, those with serious illness, and for caregivers and loved ones. We are volunteers who sing in private homes, local nursing homes, hospitals, hospice facilities, both regularly and by special request, and for local memorial services.

We believe in the healing power of music and the importance of community presence during life’s transitions, choosing songs that are meaningful to the patient and their family. Our repertoire of songs is drawn from many different faith and world traditions: it includes chants, rounds, spirituals, hymns, and classical music.

JourneySongs invites applications for the position of Music Director, who fuses our mission of music and spiritual depth with enthusiasm, proficiency, and humble curiosity. The Music Director guides the group’s musical practice in rehearsals and memorial services and informs practice around bedside sings.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead rehearsals twice per month on Sunday afternoons (3:30 - 5 p.m.) in Newton
• Ensure the learning and polishing of music, and periodically lead bedside “sings” in a number of contexts: hospice facilities, private homes, hospitals, nursing homes, etc.
• Coordinate performances at memorial services and outreach singing
• In consultation with group members, curate repertoire to best meet the needs of patients, their families, and singers.
• Explore ways with the Steering Committee, to expand JourneySongs’ reach (i.e., through recordings and a digital presence).
• Create a nurturing, supportive, and empathic learning environment with high musical expectations
• Actively participate with the Steering Committee to strategize in the areas of membership, marketing, budget, and space needs
• Share strategies for singing without books, from heart not head

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Music (voice, music education, or related field)
• Demonstrated ability and interest in adult and “aging” vocal pedagogy, choral techniques, and diverse instructional strategies
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to work as a member of a team
• Sensitivity to spiritual aspects of music-making and an empathic approach to bedside singing

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master’s Degree in Music (choral conducting, music education, or related field)
• 2 years of successful experience in a community choral setting
• Experience in music-making outside the concert hall

To submit an application, please send a cover letter, resumé, and list of three references to Brett Jackson at visit@journeysongs.org.

Interviews to be scheduled August through October, 2023