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Organist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Archdiocese of St. Louis

Cantor

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

This part-time role works collaboratively with the Organist, clergy, and liturgy staff to enhance the prayer experience through music that reflects the traditions of the Roman Catholic Church.

Archdiocese of St. Louis

Cantor

Saint Louis, MO

This part-time role works collaboratively with the Organist, clergy, and liturgy staff to enhance the prayer experience through music that reflects the traditions of the Roman Catholic Church.

Archdiocese of St. Louis

Cantor

Saint Louis, MO

This part-time role works collaboratively with the Organist, clergy, and liturgy staff to enhance the prayer experience through music that reflects the traditions of the Roman Catholic Church.

Herschend Corp.

Chapel Organist

Pine Mountain, GA

Responsibilities and Duties * Provides own music and shoes for playing the organ. * Plays music appropriate for all ages of guests and seasons * Plays organ at weddings and rehearsals, as coordinated ...

NEW HOPE CHURCH OF GOD

Hammond Organist

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$300 - $500/wk

New Hope Church of Norfolk is seeking a Church Musician to serve and assist the lead music director for the worship music ministry for New Hope services including in house and out. Job Requirements ...

CGR Georgia LLC

Chapel Organist

Pine Mountain, GA

Responsibilities and Duties * Provides own music and shoes for playing the organ. * Plays music appropriate for all ages of guests and seasons * Plays organ at weddings and rehearsals, as coordinated ...

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Organist information

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$48.5K

$55.4K

$67.5K

How much do organist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for organist in the United States is $55,404.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $61,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges organists face when adapting to different instruments and venues?

Organists often encounter challenges when playing on unfamiliar organs, as each instrument varies in size, layout, and tonal qualities. Adjusting to different pedalboards, manuals, and registration systems can require quick adaptability and careful preparation before performances or services. Additionally, acoustics in various venues may impact timing and sound projection, making rehearsals in the actual space essential. Successful organists develop strong listening skills and flexibility to ensure high-quality performances regardless of the setting.

What jobs pay 400 an hour?

High-paying jobs that can reach $400 an hour include specialized roles such as experienced surgeons, top-tier corporate lawyers, and certain high-level consultants. These positions typically require advanced education, extensive experience, and often involve working in high-stakes environments or offering expert services. Freelance or consulting work in niche fields like executive coaching or specialized engineering may also command such rates.

What does an organist do?

An organist is a musician who plays the organ, an instrument commonly found in churches, concert halls, and some theaters. Their primary responsibilities include performing music during religious services, weddings, funerals, and special events, as well as accompanying choirs or leading congregational singing. In some settings, organists also select appropriate music, rehearse with vocal groups, and maintain the instrument. Skilled organists must be adept at reading music, improvising, and adapting to different musical styles. They often play a vital role in enhancing the atmosphere and emotional resonance of ceremonies and performances.

What is the difference between Organist vs Choir Director?

AspectOrganistChoir Director
Required CredentialsMusic degree or certification, organ proficiencyMusic degree, conducting skills, choir directing experience
Work EnvironmentChurches, concert halls, religious eventsChurches, schools, community groups
Employer & Industry UsageReligious institutions, concert venuesReligious institutions, educational settings
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles of church musiciansLearning about leadership in church music

While both roles involve church music, an Organist primarily plays the organ for services and events, focusing on performance skills. A Choir Director leads and trains the choir, emphasizing conducting and vocal coaching. Both require musical expertise and often work together in religious settings, but their responsibilities differ in focus and skill set.

How much does an organist get paid?

The average salary for an organist varies depending on experience, location, and the type of employment, but typically ranges from $25,000 to $70,000 annually. Professional organists often work in churches, concert halls, or as freelancers, and may earn additional income through performances or teaching.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Organist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Organist, you need strong musical proficiency, sight-reading ability, and a solid background in music theory, often supported by formal music education or a degree in organ performance. Familiarity with various organ models, registration techniques, and music notation software is beneficial, as are credentials like the American Guild of Organists (AGO) certification. Excellent timing, adaptability, and effective communication skills help an organist collaborate with choirs, clergy, and congregations. These competencies ensure high-quality performances, seamless coordination during services, and the ability to support diverse musical and liturgical needs.

What Does an Organist Do?

As an organist, your main responsibilities are to play the organ and to maintain it in proper working order. Organists work in a wide variety of settings, including at churches and sports stadiums, such as baseball parks or hockey arenas. Some organists are touring musicians and may specialize in specific types of organs, such as the Hammond B3 or the Wurlitzer. Your duties differ depending on your position. A church organist, for example, may accompany a choir or play music for specific rituals. A traveling musician may write original music.

How much should a church organist be paid?

The pay for a church organist varies depending on location, experience, and the size of the congregation, but typically ranges from $50 to $200 per service or a yearly salary of $20,000 to $50,000. Many church organists are paid hourly or receive stipends, and additional compensation may include benefits or allowances for practice time and travel.

Is there a shortage of organists?

The demand for organists varies by region and type of employment, with some areas experiencing shortages due to retirements and a limited pool of qualified candidates. Many churches, concert halls, and educational institutions seek skilled organists, especially those with strong sight-reading and improvisation skills, but competition can be high for certain positions. Certification and experience can improve job prospects in this field.
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Organist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Organist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 57% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $55,404 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Organist - Holy Cross Parish - Garrett Park Maryland

The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Washington

Garrett Park, MD

$13K - $18K/mo

Part-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Holy Cross Catholic Church in Garrett Park, MD is searching for a talented, dynamic, and accomplished professional for the position of organist.

Working under the supervision of the Director of Music and Pastor, the organist accompanist provides liturgical music at Holy Cross Catholic Church Masses, performing the organ accompaniment for the Traditional Choir, Cantor, instrumental Soloists, and the general Parish Community.

The goal of music at Holy Cross Catholic Church is to encourage a prayerful singing assembly, which joins in the liturgy expressing the Gospel message through sacred music.

This position is part-time, paid by service.

Compensation commensurate with experience and qualification

  • Approximately $13,000- $18,500 for 2 calls -one choir rehearsal + one Mass on Sunday at 9:30 am (Sept.-June with choir) - one Mass on Sunday at 9:30 am (June -Sept. with cantor) Extra Masses -12 pm (if needed) and feast days.
  • Special compensation for Christmas, Holy Week and Easter.
  • 6, 7 First Sunday of the month free (Sept-June) .
  • 4 paid Sundays per year vacation a year after completion of a probationary period of 90 days.

Qualifications:

  • Minimum of a Bachelor's Degree in Music Performance in piano and or/organ or comparable work experience in organ performance.
  • Strong professional level technical competence playing the organ.
  • Strong sight-reading skills.
  • 2 years of experience as a church musician is desirable providing organ accompaniment for cantors, soloists, a choir and parishioners.
  • Possessing a working knowledge of music in the Catholic Liturgical tradition is a plus.
  • Must possess the ability to work well and collaboratively with others, both staff and congregation.
  • Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities:

  • Must be available to play on Sundays the 9:30 am (including, but not limited to etc.) as needed, making arrangements in advance if an absence is expected (except Christmas, Easter, Holy Week). Arrive at least 45 minutes before the 9:30 am Mass begins to rehearse with Cantor / Choir.
  • Our Traditional Choir rehearses on Thursdays from 7-8:45 pm. (September-June)
  • Play all vocal parts for the choir during rehearsals.
  • Should be willing to practice sufficiently to maintain the highest professional standards in performance of the music respecting the written tempos indicated and always being prepared.
  • Provide additional support for weddings, funerals, and other liturgical services and events as required. Additional compensation will be provided for all weddings and funeral services.
  • 6-10 minutes prelude and a short postlude.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Repertoire:

  • Typically, four, five congregational hymns per Mass, a responsorial psalm, regular mass parts, one traditional anthem with choir or soloist, a 6-10 minute prelude and a short postlude.
  • The Mass usually lasts 50-60 minutes.

To be considered for the position, please send a resume along with a cover letter addressing your experience and qualification, and optional recordings or videos demonstrating your organ performance skills to: Dr. Mariana at music@hcrosschurch.org

Starting date September 1, 2026 or sooner.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. We look forward to welcoming a talented organist who shares our passion for music and worship.

Position remains open until filled.

Apply