Worship planning is done best by a team including pastor, musician, and several members of the congregation, or at the very least, by pastor and musician working together. When too much control is given to either party the working relationship can be damaged and conflict will result. Musicians who work closely with members of the congregation outside of the choir generally have a more positive relationship with the congregation. In every congregation, it is helpful to have an impartial mutual ministry committee in place to help work through difficulties should they arise. Managing a thorough process can seem like a daunting task for a congregation.
Some synods have a staff person responsible for music and worship.
That person may be available to act as a consultant to guide parishes in developing a job description and help assess musical skills, liturgical knowledge, and the candidate's ability to work successfully in a parish situation. If this resource is not available in your synod, the ELCA worship staff or the ALCM Professional Concerns director may be able to put you in touch with someone in your geographic area who would be able to assist you. Above all, be prayerful and patient in your search. The musician you hire or call will have a major role in shaping the spiritual life of your congregation. The search for this person should reflect that importance.