Role of the organ scholar
The organ scholars at Balliol – of which there are a maximum of two at any time – form a central part of Chapel and musical life in the College. For a college that does not have a Director of Music, the organ scholars are the principal point of contact for all music-related matters, namely choral music. Organ scholars at Balliol are given the unique opportunity to be solely responsible for directing and accompanying the choir, which allows conducting and accompanying skills to develop during the organ scholars’ tenure. The organ scholarship suits a confident organist and choral conductor, as well as someone who wishes to develop their conducting experience.
The choir is non-auditioning, comprising undergraduate and graduate students, as well as staff, who meet to rehearse once a week (Friday evening 5.30–6.30pm), to prepare for the weekly service of Choral Evensong on Sunday. On Sundays, the choir rehearses for Choral Evensong 4.00–5.15pm, with Evensong taking place at 5.30pm. A complimentary meal and drinks are provided after Evensong, allowing choir members to socialise and relax.
Working with the Chaplain, organ scholars devise termly music lists and choir concerts, and also organise choir social events. A prominent feature of the musical year is a regular choir tour; recent visits have included tours to Sicily, Florence, and Venice.
The Chapel organ is a fine Harrison & Harrison instrument from 1938, with three manuals and 24 stops. It offers a wide range of musical and tonal colour, and is a great joy to play. The organ was fully refurbished in 2020. There is more information about the organ here.
‘I chose Balliol because of the amazing balance it offers an organ scholar: real responsibility for leading the Chapel’s musical life, but with the freedom to bring your own ideas. With just one service a week, the role fits well alongside academic work, and you still get the chance to conduct, accompany, and take musical ownership of everything from rehearsals to Evensong and concerts. I’ve loved having the freedom to explore different repertoire and hone the choir’s sound each term. It’s such a warm and enthusiastic group, and directing them is always a real joy. Seeing everything come together during the Evensong service each week is one of the most fulfilling parts of my week. The role has challenged me, built my confidence, and given me so many great memories – being Senior Organ Scholar at Balliol has been a truly special part of my time at Oxford.’ — Benjamin Gardner, Senior Organ Scholar — current.
Further information and how to apply
The College remunerates organ scholars with an honorarium of £300 in the first academic year and then £500 in subsequent years, together with accommodation in the Garden Quad (during the first year), and Front Quad (during subsequent years) at the standard rental rate. Both rooms are provided with a piano, allowing convenient opportunity for practice. Regular lessons are also provided with an organ and/or conducting teacher of the organ scholar’s choice, with the cost paid for by the College. Balliol normally appoints organ scholars on a biannual cycle. In the second year of an organ scholar’s tenure, an organist from outside assists the organ scholar.
To apply you will need to complete an application form, which is normally available from the start of July, by noon on 1 September. If shortlisted, you will be invited to come to Oxford in September to participate in the Musical Assessment Round. Please see the University’s Organ Scholarship website for full details. It is a requirement that organ scholars study any subject that is offered by Balliol at undergraduate level, with the exception of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. Those who are successful in the Musical Assessment Round will be invited to make a UCAS application with the college that has selected them as first choice. Depending on successful performance in any pre-interview tests administered by their chosen subject, applicants will then be invited for full academic assessment in December, alongside other candidates for their subject.
We are always delighted to hear from prospective applicants: please contact the Senior Organ Scholar, Benjamin Gardner, who would be more than happy to answer any questions you may have. Should you have any questions about the admissions process, please contact the Undergraduate Administrator.
