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The organ at Wells Cathedral where Junior Organ Scholarship Recipients play

JUNIOR ORGAN SCHOLARSHIPS AT WELLS

Organ Scholarship by Wells Cathedral Organ

CASE STUDY

Former Junior Organ Scholar François Cloete, who left Wells in 2021, has just passed the prestigious FRCO (Fellowship of the Royal College of Organists) diploma. He has also been awarded the three top prizes in the exam: the Limpus/Shinn/Durrant Prize (top marks in the practical exam); the Harding/Durrant Prize (top marks in the written exams); and the Dr F. J. Read Prize (first place overall). François is currently organ scholar of Hereford Cathedral, and in October will go up to Oxford to study music alongside holding the organ scholarship at Merton College.

Wells is unique in being the only Cathedral Choir School anywhere in the world that is also a Specialist Music School.

Among many benefits, this provides a unique opportunity for our organists, who are able to gain experience not only working with one of the finest Cathedral Choirs in the UK, but also within one of the largest and highest performing Music Departments in the country.

Wells Cathedral also offers a Junior Organ Scholarship, which is offered annually to one or more organists who are studying at the School.

Duties

Depending on the ability and experience of the post holder, duties can include:

  • attending rehearsals with the Cathedral Choir
  • sitting in with the Cathedral Organists during rehearsals and services
  • playing voluntaries or accompanying the Choir
  • Accompanying the School Chapel Choir, who sing twice weekly in the Cathedral on average, for their rehearsals and services.
  • Playing the organ for School Symphony Orchestra concerts in Wells Cathedral (repertoire permitting)

Benefits

Junior Organ Scholars will also gain all of the benefits of a Wells musical education, such as:

  • Exceptional teaching and coaching
  • Access to wonderful facilities (including access to a number of marvellous organs)
  • Regular opportunities to perform
  • Access to our “Professional Practice” module, including specific advice on coaching on applying for Oxbridge Organ Scholarships or conservatoire entry

Remuneration

While there is no specific remuneration for the Organ Scholarship in itself, applicants may be able to benefit from a Wells Cathedral School Scholarship, and in some cases may also be able to access one of the UK government’s means-tested Music and Dance Scheme bursaries, which in exceptional circumstances may provide for up to 100% of boarding and tuition fees. More information is available on request.

Previous Junior Organ Scholars have gone on to obtain Organ Scholarships at the most prestigious Oxbridge Colleges.

How to Apply

We welcome applications from any talented organists looking to enter Wells Cathedral School in Years 9, 10 or Lower Sixth. Ex-choristers seeking to join as Junior Organ Scholars can also benefit from our exceptional vocal programme designed for former choristers.

Anyone interested in applying for the Junior Organ Scholarship will be offered a consultation lesson and interview (either online or in person, according to the candidate’s choice) with Alexander Hamilton, Assistant Director of Music at Wells Cathedral.

To apply or to find out more, contact [email protected]