Christ Church Southgate is seeking to appoint an Organ Scholar from 1 September 2024.
We’re looking for an ambitious young organist in Year 11 or above, seeking to apply for a university or gap-year Organ Scholarship or conservatoire course.
As Organ Scholar, you will:
• have regular access to a Cathedral-style Anglican choral tradition in an outstanding Parish Church environment
• play hymns and voluntaries in services
• develop your skills to be able to accompany the choir in rehearsals and services
• gain experience of and receive tuition in directing the adult and children’s choirs
• be mentored by an experienced organist and choral director with experience of and connections to Cathedral and University organ and choral scholarships
• observe rehearsals and assist the Organist during services
• have access to the church organ for practice
Hours and Commitment:
• Play hymns and voluntaries for one Sunday (two services) each month as agreed with the Director of Music, with the possibility of accompanying the choir as your skills develop
• Observe and assist the Organist on at least one other Sunday (two services) each month.
• Observe and assist the Organist at two of the Christmas and two of the Holy Week/Easter services.
• Attend one Friday evening rehearsal each month to observe, accompany or direct the choir as appropriate
Details:
• You’ll be paid a scholarship of £1,200 per year
• You can apply to be our Organ Scholar for a maximum of 3 years
Application and Appointment Process
To apply:
Write a short statement explaining why you would like to be our new Organ Scholar and giving a brief summary of your musical experience (ABRSM Grades, organ lessons, other instrumental lessons, choirs and orchestras). Please also include your organ teacher’s details.
Applications should be submitted via email to office@christchurch-southgate.org by 12 noon on Friday 19th July 2024.
If you, your teacher or your parent/guardian would like an informal discussion about the scholarship, please contact the incoming Director of Music, William Waine, c/o office@christchurch-southgate.org.
Auditions will be held on Saturday 3rd or 10th August 2024.
For your audition, you will need to:
• Play two organ pieces of your own choice (ideally one by J.S. Bach)
• Perform one set work sent to you no less than 7 days in advance
• Perform one hymn with a playover sent to you no less than 7 days in advance
• Short tests in sight-reading and accompanying.
• A short interview with the Vicar and the Director of Music.