Organ Scholarships

Queens' is very proud of the training it offers its organists, and the magnificent three-manual Binns organ is an ideal instrument on which the learn the art of choral accompaniment. Many former organ scholars have enjoyed distinguished musical careers after graduation, such the composer Charles Villiers Stanford (1870-72), the internationally renowned symphonic and operatic conductor Richard Hickox (1967-70). The organ scholars are central to college music making, often conducting the MagSoc Symphony Orchestra and Chorus. The organ scholars also traditonally organise the organ recital series that runs in the Michaelmas and Lent terms.

While most read music, organ scholars can study any subject and enjoy the same privileges as members of the Choir, including free Formal Halls (three-course meals) after Chapel services, and free singing lessons. In addition, the organ scholars receive a generous stipend each year towards organ tuition, conducting lessons and scores. Complementing his role with the Choir, the Director Music Nick Morris coaches the organ scholars in choral accompaniment. Nick also offers organ lessons, but encourages organ scholars to study with visiting teachers to allow them to consider other musical perspectives.

Through the Friends of Queens' Music, Queens' offers generous support for other musical endeavours and the organ scholars also benefit from fees for weddings throughout the year. The organ scholars are provided with rooms in College with pianos.

Both organ scholarships are endowed: the Senior Organ Scholar is known as the Aliki Vatikioti Senior Organ Scholar, and the Junior Organ Scholar is known as the George C. Phillips Organ Scholar.

The Aliki Vatikioti Senior Organ Scholar - Mr Jack McCabe (jm2452)
The George C. Phillips Junior Organ Scholar - Mr Zane Soonawalla (zs426)

If you are interested in learning more about becoming an Organ Scholar here at Queens’, please contact the Director of Music, Nicholas Morris.

Please note that these scholarships will not be available to those applying for Medicine and Veterinary Medicine. Also, as Queens' does not offer Philosopy or Archaeology, applicants for these subjectjs should not apply to Queens' for Organ Scholarships.

The organ specification can be viewed on the National Pipe Organ Register website.

There are also online listings for the current organ recital series in Queens’ College Chapel, but the best way to hear about upcoming organ recitals in Queens' is to email our Senior Organ Scholar, Jack McCabe.