SHEPHERD OF THE LAKE LUTHERAN CHURCH
Part-tme - program-year position, $800 per projectReports to Pastor of Worship & MusicShepherd of the Lake Lutheran Church, an ELCA congregation in Prior Lake, Minnesota, seeks a collaborative and musically skilled Choir Director to lead a vocal ensemble for three seasonal choir projects during the 2026–2027 program year: Christmas Eve, Good Friday/Easter, and end of year/Pentecost. This project-based role is ideal for a conductor who enjoys preparing meaningful music for worship, building community among singers, and working within a welcoming Lutheran congregation.JOB RESPONSIBILITIESConduct and prepare the vocal ensemble for three worship-related choir projects during the 2026–2027 program year.Plan and lead three or four rehearsals for each project, with dates and times to be determined in coordination with church staff and singer availability.Select, recommend, or help shape appropriate choral repertoire for Christmas Eve, Good Friday / Easter, and end of year / Pentecost worship services.Teach vocal parts, shape musical interpretation, and encourage healthy, confident singing.Communicate clearly with singers regarding rehearsal schedules, expectations, music distribution, and service details.Collaborate with the Pastor of Worship and Music, accompanists, worship staff, and other musicians to integrate choral music into the liturgical and musical life of the congregation.Foster a welcoming, encouraging, and spiritually grounded rehearsal environment for volunteer singers.PROJECT SCHEDULEChoir ProjectWorship FocusRehearsalsService/Presentation TimingChristmas EveChristmas Eve worship service at 7PM (and maybe 11PM)Three or four rehearsalsDecember 24, 2026Holy Week / EasterGood Friday 7PM service, and Easter Sunday worship service(s)Three or four rehearsalsGood Friday, March 26, and Easter Sunday, March 28, 2027End of Year / PentecostLate spring worship service and celebrationThree or four rehearsalsMay 16, 2027 QUALIFICATIONS· Demonstrated experience conducting choirs, vocal ensembles, or volunteer singers.· Strong musicianship, rehearsal leadership, and knowledge of choral technique.· Ability to work collaboratively with church staff, accompanists, and volunteer musicians.· Respect for and comfort within Christian worship; familiarity with Lutheran liturgy and ELCA congregational life is preferred but not required.· Clear communication, organization, and dependability.· Ability to create an inclusive, encouraging atmosphere for singers of varying backgrounds and experience levels.TIME COMMITMENTThis is a seasonal, project-based position covering three choir projects. Each project will include three or four rehearsals plus participation in the related worship service or services. Specific rehearsal dates, times, and service commitments will be determined in conversation with the Choir Director, music department staff, and Pastor of Worship and Music.COMPENSATIONCompensation will be $800 per project.APPLICATION PROCESSIInterested candidates are invited to submit a brief letter of interest, résumé or summary of relevant experience, and references or sample conducting/music leadership materials if available.Application materials may be sent to Pastor Jonathan Rundman at jonathanrundman@sollc.orgDEADLINE: October 1, 2026ABOUT SHEPHERD OF THE LAKEShepherd of the Lake Lutheran Church is a vibrant ELCA congregation in Prior Lake, Minnesota, committed to welcoming people with open hearts, open minds, and an open table. The congregation values worship, community, music, service, and the gifts of people at every stage of life and faith.
