Now Hiring: Collaborative Pianist

Position Title: Collaborative Pianist

Reports to: Director of Music

Start date: September, 2026

Contract Type: W9

Work setting: On site at 656 W Barry Ave, Chicago, IL 60657

Compensation and Schedule: 

  • $75.00 per rehearsal - Thursday evenings, 7-9 pm  (40 rehearsals per year between September and June); 

  • $250 per service - Sunday morning, 9-11:30 am (35 services per year, roughly 3 sundays per month)

  • Opportunities are available for memorial services and weddings compensated at $250 per event.

Position Summary

Second Unitarian Church of Chicago is seeking a Collaborative Pianist who will provide necessary support for the music ministry. 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 of professional experience as a collaborative pianist or comparable studies.

About 2U

We are a 200+- member Unitarian Universalist congregation founded 1857. We strive to be an anti-racist/anti-oppressive, LGBTQ+ affirming, multigenerational, multicultural, and theologically diverse faith community, engaged with the bustling East Lakeview neighborhood. We have a highly collaborative 4-person staff, along with volunteers. More information is available on our website, www.secondunitarian.org

Responsibilities

  • Support choir and band rehearsals

  • Collaborate with the Director of Music in choosing solo piano pieces for the programs as needed.

  • Rehearse and perform solo, ensemble, and congregational music

  • Play additional non-Sunday services (Blue Christmas, Christmas eve)

  • Communicate regularly with the Director of Music about weekly music needs/plans.

Qualifications

  • 2+ years of professional piano experience

  • Demonstrated expertise in musical performance

  • Strong ability to sight read

  • Ability to play basic improvisations based on given chords, and underscore

  • Experience performing diverse musical traditions and styles

  • Strong communication skills with staff and volunteers

  • Ability to work independently 

Application

Interested candidates should email a resume and a video performing a solo piano piece of any style to Gabe Barbieri, Director of Music, gabemusic@secondunitarian.org. Applications will be received until the position is filled.

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.