Now Hiring: Collaborative Pianist
Position Title: Collaborative Pianist
Reports to: Director of Music
Start date: January 1, 2026
Status: hourly
Compensation: $75.00 per Thursday evening choir rehearsal (2 hours, 40 Thursdays per year between September and June); $125 per Sunday morning service for a minimum of 18 Sundays per year (average 2 hours), additional Sundays as they arise. Opportunities are available for memorial services and weddings compensated at $200 per service paid by organizer.
To apply: Interested candidates should email a cover letter and resume to Rev. Jason Lydon, jasonmlydon@gmail.com. Applications are due December 1, 2025.
Position Summary
Second Unitarian Church of Chicago is seeking a Collaborative Pianist who will provide necessary support for the music ministry of the congregation. The collaborative pianist will work closely with the Director of Music. This position requires someone who works well both independently and collaboratively. Strong sightreading, ensemble, and communications skills are essential. We seek a candidate with at least 2-3 years personal and/or professional experience as an accompanist.
About Second Unitarian
Second Unitarian Church of Chicago (656 W. Barry) is a 200-member congregation located in East Lakeview, near the Boystown neighborhood. Founded in 1857, this congregation has a long history of ministry in the city including through social justice efforts and spiritual nourishment. This is a healthy congregation with active leadership and lay engagement in the congregation. The staff is excellent to work with and are
self-motivated workers serving the shared ministry of the church.
Worship
● Each week the collaborative pianist is responsible for:
○ Three instrumental pieces to be selected in collaboration with Director of Music
○ Three hymns
○ Two featured pieces (choir, band, or vocal/instrumental soloist)
● Play additional non-Sunday services as available (Blue Christmas, Christmas eve)
Ensembles
● Accompany choir rehearsals from Mid-August to late May/Early June; join choir rehearsals before Sunday services twice per month
● Attend monthly band rehearsals if possible
General
● Communicate regularly with the Director of Music about weekly music needs/plans.
Qualifications
● Demonstrated expertise in musical accompaniment
● Strong ability to sight read
● Ability to improvise and underscore
● Experience performing diverse musical traditions and styles
Additional details
People with disabilities, people of color, indigenous people, Hispanic/Latinx, and LGBTQ candidates are encouraged to apply. Second Unitarian is committed to developing a diverse and talented staff team. If you are excited about this role, but are unsure whether you meet 100% of the requirements, we encourage you to inquire and/or apply.