Dear Members of the Search Committee,
I am writing to express my interest in the Organist and Director of Music position at Brevard First United Methodist Church. As a native North Carolinian with extensive experience serving in the United Methodist tradition, I would welcome the opportunity to return home and contribute to a congregation known for its musical vitality and commitment to meaningful worship.
My background spans both cultivated and contemporary musical forms, and I have spent more than twenty years leading choirs, directing instrumental and handbell ensembles, collaborating with praise bands, and shaping expressive congregational song. My work in Methodist, Episcopal, Presbyterian, and interfaith settings has prepared me to guide a broad, intergenerational music ministry grounded in hospitality, artistic excellence, and theological integrity. I bring strong skills as a conductor, organist, pianist, and educator, and I value the collaborative partnership between pastor, staff, and musicians that strengthens the life of the church.
I am deeply committed to cultivating worship that is vibrant, participatory, and rooted in the mission of the congregation. Brevard’s reputation for musical excellence and community engagement resonates strongly with my own vocational path, and I would be honored to support and expand that legacy.
Thank you for considering my application. I would be grateful for the opportunity to speak with you further about how my experience and vision can serve the ministry of Brevard First UMC.
Warmly,
William Clayton Whittington
Media
Below you will find a curated selection of video recordings that represent the breadth of my work in church music ministry. These include examples of choral conducting, handbell direction, contemporary worship leadership, music from the community of Taizé, and Psalm chanting from the United Methodist Hymnal. Many of the organ and hymn-based recordings were created during the COVID-19 pandemic for online worship, and they reflect both the adaptability and the pastoral care required in that unique season of ministry. This media portfolio is offered as a glimpse into the diverse musical language through which I strive to shape meaningful, authentic, and spiritually grounded worship.