Organ & Choral Scholarships
Organ and Choral Scholarships at Trinity are a fantastic way to develop and learn more about singing, music and administration.
This pages hold information on the various scholarships, as well as how to apply and some hints and tips.
This pages hold information on the various scholarships, as well as how to apply and some hints and tips.
Organ Scholarships
The Organ Scholarships at Trinity are a rewarding, but not an overbearing job. Organ scholars work together, and in conjunction with the Chaplain, Rev. Dr Emma Percy, to choose music, plan services, train the choir and manage the musical life of the chapel.
In return for this, the two organ scholars are accommodated in fine rooms overlooking either Durham or Garden Quad, also equipped with a clavinova. So too, they are paid an annual stipend towards music lessons, be it organ, conducting, Alexander technique or singing. Organ scholars also have the opportunity to work with, and learn from, some of the experts in the field by inviting professionals, such as Ralph Allwood MBE, to lead masterclasses with the choir, as well as consult with them to gain valuable insights into the running and administration of a chapel choir. Applicants are advised to contact the organ scholars if they have any questions, or if they would like to visit the college. The organ scholars can be contacted here. |
Choral Scholarships
Choral Scholarships at Trinity are a fantastic way to aid and impart knowledge to the less-experienced members of the choir. Choral scholars work hand-in-hand with the organ scholars in leading their parts in rehearsals and taking initiative in organising extra rehearsals when required to ensure that the Chapel Choir is performing at its optimum.
In return for their efforts, choral scholars are granted an annual stipend for singing lessons with Joanna Campion-Watt. |
How to Apply
Prospective scholars apply through the normal university channels.
Organ Scholars: Organ scholars are required to submit an application form, found on the Department of Music website indicating the various information required by the university (this can be found at http://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate_courses/how_to_apply/scholarships/organ.html). If successful, applicants are invited to spend 3 or 4 days in Oxford during which they have organ playing and choir training auditions, as well as academic interviews for the subject the applicant wishes to read. Applicants may also be asked to take up other interviews organised by their first, second or third choice colleges.
Organ scholar applicants should prepare two separate pieces of contrasting styles and of at least a Grade 8 standard for their organ audition. Applicants should also aim to prepare for the various keyboard tests that will be required (viz. sight-reading, score-reading, transposition and harmonisation of a melody at sight).
Choral Scholarships: Applicants should already be matriculated members of the University and apply by emailing an organ scholar to see which spaces are available and when the next set of trials will take place. These trials normally involve the singing of a prepared piece, as well as some sight-reading and technical exercises.
Organ scholar applicants should prepare two separate pieces of contrasting styles and of at least a Grade 8 standard for their organ audition. Applicants should also aim to prepare for the various keyboard tests that will be required (viz. sight-reading, score-reading, transposition and harmonisation of a melody at sight).
Choral Scholarships: Applicants should already be matriculated members of the University and apply by emailing an organ scholar to see which spaces are available and when the next set of trials will take place. These trials normally involve the singing of a prepared piece, as well as some sight-reading and technical exercises.
Final Tips
Always expect the unexpected: sometimes interviewers will ask tough questions, additional organ interviews will involve a little more than is indicated on the University webpage. If you expect anything to happen, you will be less nervous when it actually does happen.
Be yourself: false pretences show and interviewers catch-on rather quickly. It is YOU who wants to be there, not your alter-ego - show people who you are.
Have fun: make new friends, enjoy the opportunity to spend time in some of the most beautiful buildings, be interviewed by world-leading experts and play many different instruments. Make it a worthwhile experience for you and the others applying.
Be yourself: false pretences show and interviewers catch-on rather quickly. It is YOU who wants to be there, not your alter-ego - show people who you are.
Have fun: make new friends, enjoy the opportunity to spend time in some of the most beautiful buildings, be interviewed by world-leading experts and play many different instruments. Make it a worthwhile experience for you and the others applying.
In conclusion, good luck from us at Trinity! We look forward to seeing you here for your application and hope that it is a wonderful, exciting and memorable experience.