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Organ Awards

With its renowned Frobenius organ and beautiful new chamber organ, Robinson College offers an outstanding opportunity for young organists to play the very finest instruments, and to work with the newly-appointed Director of Choral Music, Mr Will Sims, in the beautiful and uniquely atmospheric setting of the College Chapel.

The quality of the Frobenius organ at Robinson, together with the opportunity to be in charge of repertoire, rehearsals, concerts and cathedral visits, has attracted some very strong organ scholars over the years. Past organ scholars have included Peter Dyke (Hereford Cathedral), Sarah MacDonald (Selwyn College), Andrew Reid (Westminster Cathedral) and Mark Hindley (Leeds Philharmonic Chorus) among many others who have gone on to a professional career in music. The scholarship at Robinson combines mentoring and training from Will Sims and Jeremy Thurlow with opportunities for leadership which provide an ideal preparation for a cathedral post or for many other musical careers, as well as for leadership roles more generally.

The Organ Scholars receive free organ lessons and vocal training, and a free formal 3-course dinner after Evensong every Tuesday. They have priority access to the Frobenius throughout the year. They play a leading role in choosing repertoire and planning services, concerts and trips in consultation with Dr Thurlow, the Chaplain and Mr Sims. Organ scholars receive a stipend which is currently £450 per year.

Applications should be made by the September deadline through the University's online Organ Scholarship Application Form.

For more informal information about Organ Awards at Robinson, potential applicants are welcome to contact:

Mr Will Sims, Director of Choral Music, or
Dr Jeremy Thurlow, Director of Studies in Music

See also the page on the University's website about Music Awards