First Presbyterian Church Palo Alto

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(Submitted October 23th, 2026)

Address: 1140 Cowper Street

Contact Name: Tom Harris

Contact Email: tom@fpcpaloalto.org

Position: Organist, Pianist

Effort: Temporary/Interim

Compensation: $300-$350/week

Job Description and Application Instructions

First Presbyterian Church of Palo Alto is a theologically and socially progressive congregation. We are LGBTQ-affirming and committed to ongoing anti-racist work. With a long tradition of engagement in social justice, we seek staff members who share these values and support them within the life of the church.

Position Overview
We seek a skilled and collaborative musician to serve as Interim Organist/Pianist, providing accompaniment for our Sanctuary Choir, congregational singing, and other music during Sunday worship.

Proficiency on both organ and piano is preferred, but we welcome applications from accomplished pianists who do not play the organ.

We value musical diversity, creativity, and a willingness to work collaboratively with our Interim Music Director and other musicians to provide joyful and meaningful worship music.

Terms of Employment
Part-time, interim position, approximately 15 hours per week.
Thursday evening choir rehearsals, generally 7:00–9:00 p.m. (September–May)
Sunday morning choir rehearsal and worship, generally 8:30–11:30 a.m., year-round
Availability to play for Christmas Eve worship is required.
Additional preparation and practice time as needed
Compensation: $300-350/week depending on qualifications and experience
Reports to the Music Director
The interim musician will be eligible to apply for the permanent position.

Primary Responsibilities
Accompany the Sanctuary Choir at Thursday rehearsals, Sunday morning rehearsals, and worship services.
Accompany congregational hymns and songs, vocal and instrumental soloists, and small ensembles as needed.
In consultation with the Interim Music Director, select and perform preludes, postludes, and other service music.
Provide music reflecting a diversity of styles, traditions, and composers, including contemporary and historically underrepresented voices.
Collaborate with the Interim Music Director and other musicians in planning and preparing worship music.
Provide accompaniment for special worship services as scheduled.

Qualifications
Strong piano skills, including excellent sight-reading and accompaniment abilities.
Organ proficiency is strongly desirable but not required.
Experience accompanying choirs and congregational singing.
Familiarity with a variety of musical styles and traditions.
Dependability, flexibility, and strong collaborative skills.
Appreciation for the mission and values of a progressive Christian congregation.
Employment Conditions
Employment is subject to the Church's Personnel Policies and applicable law, including required background checks and training.

Please send resume, cover letter, and audio/video samples to tom@fpcpaloalto.org