Church Musician

Catholic Mass Musician – Job Description

Location: Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, United Kingdom, IP28 8NG
Contract Type: Part Time

Start Date: March 10, 2026

Position Summary

The Catholic Mass Musician provides musical accompaniment and leadership for Catholic worship services and related chapel programs. The musician works with the Catholic Chaplain to provide appropriate liturgical music for weekly Mass, rehearsals, holy days, and special services while supporting an atmosphere of religious sensitivity and respect for all faith groups.

Essential Qualifications (Required)

• Associate’s Degree or UK equivalent (any field).


• Minimum two (2) years of experience serving as a Catholic church musician.


• Two professional letters of reference with contact information.


• Ability to perform piano, organ, or guitar accompaniment for Catholic services.


• Ability to lead congregational singing and serve as cantor when required.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Coordinate music selections with the Catholic Chaplain consistent with Catholic liturgy.


• Provide accompaniment for weekly Mass, Holy Days of Obligation, and special services.


• Perform anthems, choral responses, and special music as required.


• Attend and support required rehearsals and services.


• Serve as cantor and lead choir and congregation when required.


• Train choir members and recruit and maintain music volunteers.


• Arrive at least 15 minutes prior to services and remain through cleanup.


• Ensure compliance with copyright laws; no unauthorized duplication of music.

Service and Workload Requirements

Services and rehearsals typically range from one to three hours including setup and cleanup. The contract workload shall not exceed 128 units per contract period, generally consisting of:

• 52 Weekly Services


• 52 Weekly Rehearsals


• 12 Special Service Performances


• 12 Special Rehearsals


• Maximum total: 128 units

Equipment, Safety, and Security Responsibilities

Government-furnished instruments and sound equipment are provided. The musician must safeguard government property, secure chapel facilities after use, comply with installation safety and traffic regulations, maintain required identification, and follow all base security procedures. Weapons or ammunition are prohibited on base.