Organ and Choral Scholarships

The role of organ and choral scholars

An organ scholar will have reached a standard equivalent to at least Grade 6 in their organ studies. They are likely to be receiving organ lessons (although these can be provided). An ability to sing will be helpful. He or she will be capable of accompanying hymns and anthems and at least working towards the ability to play for a full service. He or she may already have experience conducting choirs and will be expected to sing when not playing or conducting.

Choral scholars are expected to be experienced singers with good sight-reading ability so as to be able to provide leadership on each of the four parts (SATB):

• Reducing the need for time spent ‘note-bashing’
• Speeding up rehearsal times
• Ensuring a good standard of singing is maintained at all times
• Enhancing the enjoyment and development of other singers.

The organ and choral scholars will be at least 15 years of age with a strong musical ability. They will be expected to attend:

• Sunday morning and evening services each week
• Rehearsals 7:30-8:45/9:00pm each Friday and half an hour before each service
• Special services: Christmas Midnight communion and morning service; Ash Wednesday and Maundy Thursday evenings; Good Friday afternoon; Ascension Day evening.

Scholars are permitted to take up to four weekends off (but not at the major festivals) in addition to the six or seven Sundays/Fridays when the choir does not sing (4/5 during August and one after each of Christmas and Easter).

Scholars will be expected to participate fully in the choir, contribute to the life of the church and to work in support of the Christian faith at the Church.

What the role offers

• To develop musical and leadership skills in the context of church music, potentially preparing the scholar for similar positions at college or Cathedral
• To gain experience in singing, (and for the organ scholar, accompanying or conducting) anthems, hymns, psalms and liturgy (playing voluntaries), working with the Director of Music, David Pimm ARCO and the Deputy Choral Director, Trevor Deadman, in a superb church setting
• A supportive community of Christian musicians
• An annual scholarship of £2,000, payable monthly, primarily as a financial contribution to the cost of lessons, classes, exams, music and travel.

The organ scholar will be able to practice on a well maintained, versatile organ subject to agreeing suitable times and safeguarding arrangements. David Pimm will provide occasional coaching for specific services free of charge, as required and, if the organ scholar is under 18, provided another adult is able to be present.

Award of the scholarships is subject to a 3 month probationary period and is renewable annually for up to three years.