St John's Episcopal, Norwood Parish, in Chevy Chase, is looking to hire a Soprano Section Leader. St John's is located at 6701 Wisconsin Ave, Chevy Chase, MD, at the corner of Wisconsin Ave and Bradley Blvd, and is a 10-minute walk from Bethesda Metro.
Choir rehearsals are held on Thursday evenings (7:30 to 9ish) and on Sundays, the choir has a 10:30 rehearsal for an 11:15 service (usually lasts for an hour). There are between 85 and 90 calls from September to June at $103 per call (this includes Christmas, Christmas Eve, Ash Wednesday, Holy Week, and Evensongs), which works out to $800–1000 monthly, September through early June. During the summer, the choir sings once a month, but there are small ensemble opportunities as well. There are additional income opportunities from weddings and funerals or singing with the 9 a.m. choir when needed.
On Sunday, the choir usually sings two anthems and a Psalm (of various types, including Anglican Chant). The repertoire is influenced by the English Choral tradition, from the Renaissance through the 21st century. Oratorio and American choral literature, such as spirituals and 20th- and 21st-century works, are also represented.
A range of skills, from singing polyphony with minimal vibrato to singing full voice for Romantic anthems, is required. In the past, the choir has sung the Fauré Requiem (with orchestra), and will sing an Evensong in early November and Advent Lessons & Carols in early December. There are opportunities for singing solos throughout the season.
St John's has a long tradition of excellent music. Its acoustics, which enhance the choral sound, are some of the best in the area. There is an opportunity to use the space for teaching, rehearsals, or recitals at no charge.
Applicants must have a strong voice, with high musicianship, good sight-reading skills, and substantial choral experience. They should enjoy working as a section leader (team leader) of volunteer singers. The choir numbers about twenty.
If interested, please contact Jason West, Director of Music Ministries, at