Part-Time Organist Position

Tokyo Union Church (TUC) is seeking a Part-Time Organist. We are an open, caring English-speaking community of faith, where all of God's people are welcome. TUC members come from many nationalities and worship backgrounds. We reflect this diversity in the Christian music that is sung and played at TUC.

Purpose of the Position

Provide music during the scheduled worship services.

Responsibilities

  • Play for worship services on the specified Sundays (2–3 times a month) and other special services or rehearsals.
  • Rehearse with the Sanctuary Choir at the specified time.
  • Arrive at the church 30 minutes prior to the start of services to allow time for communication with the Pastors, as well as warm-up time.
  • Communicate with the Worship and Music Elder for sick or personal leave for substitute arrangement.

Two worship services (8:30 and 11:00 am) from September through mid-June, and one worship service at 11:00 am during the summer months. This includes a prelude, postlude, offertory music when there is no choir present, music during communion, as well as all service music.

Skills Criteria

  1. Technical ability — keyboard proficiency on both organ and piano; sight reading; improvisational skills.
  2. Flexibility — ability to adapt and lead when unplanned situations arise during the service.
  3. Solo skill
  4. Accompaniment skill — including choir and soloists.
  5. Hymn accompaniment skill — including understanding lyrics and listening to the congregation.
  6. Quick learner — ability to master accompaniments within limited rehearsal time.
  7. Broad repertoire — demonstrated understanding of musical styles ranging from classical to modern.
  8. Repertoire selection — ability to select music appropriate to the occasion and church calendar.
  9. English communication — ability to communicate with Pastors and key TUC members in English.
  10. Christian preferred.

Relationships & Accountability

  • Supervised by the Pastor as Head of Staff.
  • Programmatically accountable to the Worship & Music Ministry Elder and Choir Director.
  • Professionally accountable to the Personnel Ministry Team.
  • All of the above work is under the Council, which on behalf of the congregation exercises ultimate authority over all ministries, leaders, and employees of TUC.

Starting Date

June 1, 2026 (with a 3-month probationary period).

How to Apply

Interested candidates should send the following to organist@tokyounion.org:

  1. A cover letter with a résumé (please include accompanying experience and repertoire) and 2 references.
  2. A CD, web link, or MP3 of a performance.

Application deadline: March 16, 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted directly for an interview.

Further Information