Professional Music Leadership

Music Leadership Credentialing

In February 2013, the Music Leadership Credentialing Program was renamed: it is now the Music Leadership Certification Program. While graduates and current candidates as of January 2013 may still use the Credentialed Music Leader title, candidates entering in 2013 or later will be working toward the designation of Certified UU Music Leaders. Over time, we will be modifying our documents and website information to reflect this change.

The Music Leadership Credentialing Program (MLCP) is a unique, three-year program that:

• Summons music leaders to their calling of music ministry,
• Enriches their service to Unitarian Universalist congregations, and
• Enhances their professional perspective and skills.

Through the credentialing program, music leaders in our congregations develop a foundational understanding of three main areas of knowledge:

1. Music skills and resources,
2. Unitarian Universalist (UU) heritage and values, and
3. Leadership and interpersonal skills.

The Music Leadership Credentialing Program is administered by the Music Leadership Credentialing Committee (MLCC) of the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) in collaboration with the Unitarian Universalist Musicians Network (UUMN).

Program Information for Potential Applicants and Congregations

• Music Leadership Credentialing Program Overview (PDF, 8 pages)
  A comprehensive description of the Music Leadership Credentialing Program, including the course work required and the competencies expected of a successful candidate. (Seasoned music leaders are encouraged to consider the Tenure Track option. Information below.)
   
• The Curriculum
  Detailed information about the series of six core courses and additional professional development opportunities required of candidates. The courses are offered at the UUMN annual summer conference.
   
• Tenure Track (PDF)
  The Tenure Track offers seasoned UU music leaders a faster path to Credentialed Music Leader status. Entrance to the Tenure Track is open to musicians with 10 or more years of experience as a professional music leader in one or more UU congregations prior to September 1, 2010
   
• Frequently Asked Questions (PDF)
   
• Application Documents:
  • Application Form (Word) (PDF)
  • Philosophy of Music as Ministry Form (Word) (PDF)
  • Criminal Offense Disclosure Form (Word) (PDF)

Program Resources for Current Candidates

• Candidate Essentials
   
• Credentialing Program Requirements
   
• The Triad Candidate, Sponsor, and Advisor
  Explains the working relationships among the candidate, the congregational sponsor chosen by the candidate, and the advisor appointed by the MLCC.

Contact Us

Greetings! I'm Jan Gartner, Professional Development Associate for Religious Education and Music Leaders at the Unitarian Universalist Association. I strive to help sustain robust, transformative faith communities by ensuring that our professional musicians and religious educators are well-equipped and theologically grounded.

I am pleased to offer advice and resources to congregations and professionals on matters relating to music and religious education leadership and transitions. Along with Julie Shaw, mlcredentialingasst @ uua.org, Assistant to the Director of Ministries and Faith Development, I provide staff oversight and support for the Music Leadership Credentialing Program.

Please contact me with your credentialing program questions or other professional music leadership concerns.

Jan Gartner
Professional Development Associate for Religious Education and Music Leaders
mlcredentialing @ uua.org