Summary
The Tree of Life Congregation (a Reform Jewish congregation located in Columbia, SC) is seeking an engaging and dynamic Cantorial Soloist who relates well to congregants and staff and can engage a community that values a participatory worship experience. S/he must work well as part of a team and be supportive of TOL’s mission.
Qualifications
The successful candidate for this position will be musically knowledgeable, and the preferred candidate will have a background in Jewish song leading or Jewish sacred music. S/he must also possess excellent vocal ability that inspires spirituality and encourages congregational participation, and a desire to perform, access and learn a broad range of Jewish worship music, whether it is contemporary, traditional or folk-style.
Position Details
Part-time is available; approximately 6-10 hours per week.
Annual salary based upon hours, experience and skill set. Please include a desired salary range.
If applying for this position, please submit a cover letter and resume. Qualified applicants will be contacted for a personal interview.
S/he will plan and conduct regular worship services in partnership with the Rabbi and provide leadership for the High Holy Days congregational choir. Playing an instrument (guitar and/or piano), song leading, being tech savvy and experienced with performing in a virtual setting (Zoom), and being (or becoming) knowledgeable in the basic tenets and practices of Reform Judaism are all especially important to TOL’s Jewish community.
In short, the successful Cantorial Soloist candidate believes in promoting participatory music, involving all member demographics, working with other musicians in the congregation, and taking a leadership role in expanding the music culture at Tree of Life.
Responsibilities
The Cantorial Soloist’s responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Partnering with the Rabbi on the bimah for worship services including: High Holy Days, Shabbat (Friday evening and monthly Saturday morning or Bnai Mitzvah services), major and minor festivals.
Providing leadership to the volunteer adult choir and TOL band.
Attending staff, committee and/or board meetings, and congregational and community events, when appropriate.
Additional duties, depending on abilities and interests, may include:
Planning and implementing the music component for TOL education programs and tefilah (K-12) in partnership with the Rabbi and Religious School Director.
Directing a volunteer children’s choir.
Working to enhance the development of youth and adult musicians of varying skill levels.
Organizing and conducting special musical events, as needed.