The Organ Scholar Program
In 2007, the Royal School of Church Music King's College Course instituted a special track for Organ Scholars with the intent of supporting the young artists who would come to us. We have developed an integrated program for the many aspects of organ and choral artistry of the Anglican tradition - from choral accompaniment and hymn-leadership to the nuances of Anglican chant.
We are pleased you are considering applying for this very select program. We offer full scholarship for room and board as well as course costs. Transportation is not included. The deadline for applying is April 1, 2012. Applicants will be notified of the selection committee's decision by May 1.
The Organ Scholar undergoes a week's worth of seminars in the avenues mentioned above as well as private instruction and practice with our course organists and other faculty members. Because of the intensive schedule, scholars are not generally able to sing regularly with the Choir, though access to the choral scores for the week is not only suggested but encouraged. Please refer to this year's course repertoire list.
You will be expected to accompany, at minimum, a hymn and a psalm at Evensong during the week and perform a voluntary (Prelude or Postlude) at one of the week's services. There is also a Faculty Recital for you to prepare a solo work to perform. Other accompanying opportunities, including house rehearsals and additional anthems/service music, may be assigned to Organ Scholars at the discretion of the faculty.
Application Checklist
- A completed application form
- Two letters of recommendation from choirmaster and/or organ instructor and your clergyperson (priest, pastor, etc.) describing their experience with you and general character/musical observations
- A statement of your own personal engagement in, and desires for a career in Church Music; your own observations of your background, experience, hopes and expectations.
- A recording of your performance of: 1) a hymn from a standard hymnal (such as The Hymnal 1982; Evangelical Lutheran Worship; The Presbyterian Hymnal, etc.) with an introduction, one verse as written in the hymnal, and a second verse with a varied accompaniment; 2) a voluntary (a piece you might play for your own parish as a Prelude to worship or during Holy Communion); 3) a recital piece.
- Health Form (required of all Course participants)
The Berghaus Organ at St. Stephen's Pro-Cathedral
The organ at St. Stephen's Pro-Cathedral is an exceptional instrument. Built in 2003 (the Solo division just completed and dedicated in March 2009!) by Leonard Berghaus and Company, it incorporates 89 ranks of pipes in 6 manual and pedal divisions. The acoustics of the Byzantine Basilica-style Church with hard resonant surfaces throughout greatly enhance the presence and ensemble of the organ. You will be hard-pressed to find such a rewarding instrument to engage in musical expression. History and specifications of the organ are available on the St. Stephen's website.
Application Materials for Organ Scholars
Application forms for the 2012 course will be available in early 2012.
Please mail all Organ Scholar Application materials to:
St. Peter's Episcopal Church
P.O. Box 464
Lewes, DE 19958
Please direct administrative questions to T.J. at tthomas@stpeterslewes.org or 302-645-8479