SUBSTITUTE LIST 

The GHAGO Substitute List is provided as a service to organizations looking to contract independent organists and/or choir directors. Any GHAGO member in good standing is eligible to be included on this list, upon their own request.
 

Employers are strongly encouraged to request references and/or representative recordings before contracting a particular musician. Inclusion on this list does not represent any particular level of proficiency. The information provided by those on the sub list has not been confirmed by GHAGO nor is GHAGO able to ensure that any individual is appropriate for any particular situation.

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The current substitute list is available here.

 

To be included on the list or to update your information, email HartfordAGO@gmail.com.

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LOCAL EMPLOYMENT

GHAGO maintains a list of open positions for organists and choir directors within our region. To be included on this list, please email HartfordAGO@gmail.com. Positions will be posted for three months. There is no fee for listing a position.

A national listing is maintained by AGO headquarters, available here.

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First Congregational Church - East Longmeadow, MA

Part-Time Music Director

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The Part-Time Church Music Director at the First Congregational Church East Longmeadow,
UCC will lead and develop the church's music ministry, creating meaningful worship
experiences that incorporate the church's rich musical resources, including an organ, piano,
chimes, bells, and Conga drum. The director will collaborate with clergy, staff, and volunteers to
plan and implement music for regular worship services, special events, and seasonal programs.
Additionally, the director will build relationships with local community resources, fostering
opportunities for collaboration and outreach through music. Preference will be given to
candidates with strong organ-playing skills and a vision for utilizing the church’s diverse musical
instruments in worship.

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Qualifications:

• Strong proficiency in organ and/or piano performance, with a preference for candidates who are experienced organists.

• Experience directing choirs and/or congregational singing.

• Familiarity with traditional and contemporary church music, as well as liturgical practices.

• Strong organizational, leadership, and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to network within the community to bring resources into the church and create opportunities for the church to build meaningful relationships within the community.

• Ability to collaborate with the minister, staff, volunteers, and community organizations.

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Salary range $14,000 - $18,000 and commensurate with experience and qualifications.

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Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to Marge Atwater at
margeryatwater@gmail.com (413-218-9658) or the First Congregational Church, c/o Music
Director Search Committee, 7 Somers Rd. East Longmeadow, MA 01028

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For a complete job description, click here. 

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Posted March 23, 2026

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First Church of Christ - Wethersfield, CT

Organist/Choir Director

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Historic First Church of Christ in Wethersfield, Connecticut, seeks an outstanding musician for the part-time position of Organist/Choir Director, whose chief task is to bring glory to God and edify the congregation. The desired candidate should be an accomplished organist with significant professional training and accomplished in organ and choral conducting and possess a vibrant faith in Jesus Christ.

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Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: 

• Demonstrates excellent organ and keyboard skills and has thorough knowledge of appropriate church music and its role in supporting worship.

• Selects and prepares weekly organ preludes, postludes, choral anthems, hymns, instrumental selections and musical responses which enhance the sermon theme and scripture references.

• Rehearses and directs the First Church Choir from September to early June, and seasonal Concert Choir twice yearly, training singers in vocal technique and appreciation of sacred music.

• Coordinates with Contemporary Worship Leader to select music for the Combined Worship Service regularly occurring on the first Sunday of each month.

• The Organist/Choir Director has the right of first refusal for weddings, funeral, and memorial service musical accompaniment, with fees paid by the families.

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Educational Qualifications and Experience:

• 3-5 years’ experience as a church organist/choir director

• Bachelor’s degree in music; Master’s Degree (preferred, not required)

• References and music recordings required

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Salary: $24,000-31,800 per year

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Interested candidates should send their resume, music recordings, and references to alicegoodrich7486@gmail.com.

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For a complete job description, click here. 

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Posted March 23, 2026

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Southport Congregational Church - Southport, CT

Director of Music and Organist

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This year-round, part-time role, requires a commitment of 15-20 hours per week. The Director of Music and Organist will lead our Senior Choir during Sunday services from September to June and play for church services during the summer months. An ideal candidate will also conduct our Handbell Choir. Collaboration and contributing to a positive work environment that reflects our church’s mission to be an exemplar of love and acceptance in the community is key.

 

For a complete job description, click here. 

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Salary Range: $40,000-$60,000 based on education, agreed hours, and prior experience

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Posted February 12, 2026

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Pleasant Valley United Methodist Church - Barkhamsted, CT

Music Director

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Job Duties

• Provide organ or piano music for Sunday Worship Services beginning at 9:00 a.m. according to the order of worship as established by the Pastor

• Provide organ or piano music for special worship services on Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter Sunday and Christmas Eve service

• Provide choir direction during worship services, and choir rehearsal each week

• Purchase music/supplies within the church budget

• The Organist/Choir Director may be asked to play organ or piano for weddings, wedding rehearsals and funerals.

• The Organist/Choir Director shall be a member of the Worship Committee, and will provide motivation, enthusiasm and new ideas for the church’s music ministry.

• The Organist/Choir Director shall discuss and coordinate music activities with the Pastor and Worship Committee.

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Compensation

The Organist/Choir Director shall be compensated at a rate of $162.73 per week for an annual salary of $8,462.00.

Fees for weddings, wedding rehearsals and funerals will be set by the Organist/Choir Director in agreement with the Pastor.

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Complete job description here. 

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Posted January 22, 2026​

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