Applications invited for Organ Scholarship 2017
Applications are open for an Organ Scholarship for the year 2017 with the Down and Dromore and Connor Organ Scholarship Management Board .
Scholarships are tenable for three years, subject to a satisfactory assessment at the end of each of the first and second years; tuition is given approximately fortnightly, free–of–charge, by one of the Board’s panel of tutors, and a certificate is awarded on completion of the course.
The scholarships are intended to train musicians in the service of the Church, in the Anglican tradition, both at the organ and in leading a choir. Tuition in choral training is an integral part of the course. No previous experience of playing the organ is necessary, but applicants should be proficient on the keyboard, approximately Grade 5 piano or equivalent. There are no upper or lower age limits. Candidates who have previously been unsuccessful are welcome to reapply.
The Board’s tutors are Mr Michael McCracken (Down Cathedral ), Mr Ian Mills (St Columb’s Cathedral, Londonderry) and Dr Joe McKee, (St Columba’s Knock). As far as possible, scholars are placed with a tutor near them. Lessons will be given in the cathedrals as above, or, in exceptional circumstances, and with the prior agreement of the Board, at another church designated by the Board.
The Board is usually able to award six scholarships annually, dividing them between the two dioceses.
Download an application form here.
Applications for scholarships should be received at the Rectory, 9 Sandelwood Avenue, Coleraine BT51 1JW by Friday 25 March.
Auditions will be held on Saturday 21 or 28 May.
Applicants will receive more detailed information on this nearer the time. Each applicant’s rector will be asked for a reference on their suitability for the scheme.