Protopsaltis

Location: Hellenic Orthodox Community of Astoria, NY
Job Type: Part-Time or Full-Time (depending on availability)
Start Date: Flexible

Overview:

The Hellenic Orthodox Community of Astoria, home to St. Demetrios Cathedral and Saints Catherine and George Church, is seeking a Protopsaltis (Lead Chanter) to serve as the principal ecclesiastical cantor for all liturgical services at the Saint Demetrios Cathedral of Astoria (30-11 30th Drive). This role is vital to the spiritual and liturgical life of the parish, supporting the clergy and faithful in the proper execution of the Byzantine musical tradition and the worship of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Responsibilities:

  • Serve as the primary chanter for all Sunday Divine Liturgies, weekday services, major feast days, and sacraments (weddings, baptisms, funerals, etc.)
  • Collaborate with and follow the guidance of the Proistameno, assisting in the ministry of the Church through sacred music
  • Maintain the musical and liturgical order of services according to the Typikon and ecclesiastical rubrics
  • Train and mentor youth and adults in Byzantine chant, promoting the living tradition of the Church
  • Organize and lead a Byzantine choir 
  • Work with assistant chanters and choir members to ensure beauty, harmony, and reverence in all services
  • Prepare and organize music for services, including special occasions and hierarchical visits

Qualifications:

  • Must be an Orthodox Christian in good standing, actively participating in the sacramental life of the Church
  • Strong proficiency in Byzantine music; formal chant training and practical parish experience required
  • Ability to chant fluently in both Greek and English
  • Theological education (Bachelor’s or Master’s in Theology or Liturgics) is preferred but not required
  • Excellent knowledge of the liturgical calendar, hymnography, and services of the Orthodox Church
  • Strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills
  • Ability to work respectfully under the direction of the Parish Priest and collaboratively with clergy and laity
  • Willingness to serve as a liturgical educator and guide for those wishing to learn the tradition
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen or hold valid permanent worker status

Compensation:

  • Competitive and commensurate with experience and availability
  • Additional compensation for sacraments and special services
  • Opportunities for further training and continuing education in Byzantine music and theology

To Apply:

Please send a cover letter, resume, and at least two references to:

Parish Council
Hellenic Orthodox Community of Astoria
Email: pcoperations@sdastoria.com 
Subject Line: Protopsaltis Position Application

Posted by

Hellenic Orthodox Community of Astoria

30-11 30th Drive
Astoria, NY 11102

Web: https://saintdemetriosastoria.com
Email: pcoperations@sdastoria.com
Phone: 718-728-1718

Posted on: April 28, 2025