Dear Members and Friends,
As you probably have heard by now, Rev Ed will retire at the end of December. I am very glad that he shall be with us in the fall when, together, we explore this Congregation’s storied history and celebrate our 75th Anniversary. His 46 years with UUWestport are certainly a big part of this congregation’s story. And, we will have the joy of another of Rev Ed’s wonderful Christmas Concerts, carol singing, and, of course, Christmas Eve. A team of volunteers are planning a celebration of Rev Ed’s ministry among us and his immense contributions to this congregation.
Many of you are wondering how we can possibly replace Rev Ed and how we will proceed to ensure that our acclaimed music program will continue and thrive. So, I want to share the plan with you.
There are two phases: 1) planning for January to June of 2025 and then 2) identifying an ongoing candidate to start in the Fall of 2025. Because people who are music directors are usually on a professional calendar that begins in the fall and because we want to be able to consider the best candidates, we are expecting to have a new Director of Music beginning in Fall of 2025. That leaves the question of next winter and spring. We plan to have an Interim Director of Music for that period.
I have asked several people to form an Interim Director of Music Search Committee: Andy Gundell, Wendy Levy, Erik Paul, Sharon Poole and Paige Steele. Suzanne Sheridan will join the team after Thanksgiving for the second phase of their work. At this time, they are in discernment what kind of candidate will best serve the Congregation. An important part of their work will be to hear from you. They will hold several “Conversations about Music” this summer. These will be Sundays July 21 and August 11, after the services; and on Thursday, August 15, a potluck dinner and conversation. We hope you bring all your ideas about music at UUWestport to these gatherings.
Then in the fall, I will form a Director of Music Search Committee. They will get organized in the late fall and then begin their work in earnest after the first of the year. There will be further opportunities for all of you to bring your thoughts and ideas to this process as well.
I do hope that you will plan to be a part of these conversations. Ultimately, when I hire an Interim Director of Music and a permanent Director of Music, I want to be sure that your thoughts and ideas have informed the decisions.
In the meantime, enjoy the worship services this summer as members both lead the services and provide music. It’s a great time to become acquainted with others.
Warmly,
Alan
