Music Leadership Professional Development Program

Teal coffee cup sitting next to an open laptop with lots of people's images on it, as though in an online class.. Photo by Chris Montgomery on Unsplash.

The Music Leadership Professional Development Program provides Unitarian Universalist (UU) Music Ministers a learning community within which they can easily access applicable skills and tools. The program offers nine differently-themed modules, many available in an online format with two being offered only in-person. While these modules are a major component of the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) Music Leadership Certification Program, they may be taken separately for general professional development and applied to the certification program at a later time. Though developed for music professionals, religious professionals holding any portfolio in a UU setting may benefit from these educational opportunities. The following modules may be taken in any order.

  • Cultural Context for Music Ministry
  • Developing and Managing a Music Program
  • Ethics and Care
  • Leading Congregational Singing
  • Leading a Rehearsal
  • Music and Worship
  • Navigating Congregational Conflict
  • System Theory
  • UU Theology and Hymnody

Additional Trainings

While these additional trainings do not count toward the requirements of the Music Leadership Certification Program, they are invaluable professional development opportunities:

Module Specifics

Explore further module information on the Music Leadership Certification Curriculum page. Review the Educational Opportunities for Musicians calendar for dates and registration information.

Participation

In-person modules are designed to accommodate between 10 to 24 participants; online modules are generally limited to 15 participants. Music Leadership Professional Development Modules are open to all those interested in religious leadership including seminary students, ministers, congregational staff, and lay leaders. Congregations support the Religious Professional by providing funding for registration and time off to attend.

Scholarships

It is strongly recommended that congregations give financial support to religious professionals who are attending on their behalf. Registrations are available on a sliding scale and Music Ministers may apply for continuing education grants of up to $500 to support the training.