THE OPUS 327 ORGAN SCHOLAR PROGRAM

Opus 327 is pleased to announce that applications are being accepted for the Opus 327 Organ Scholar Program's 2022-2023 term. The program is designed to encourage and support young musicians in their education as an organist. The Organ Scholar will act as an intern in the music programs at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, Evanston, receiving hands-on experiences and mentoring from Organist Peter Morey and Director of Music and Choirmaster Andrew Lewis. This position offers both emerging and established organists the opportunity to receive training in a unique music ministry, steeped in the Anglican tradition.

 

The scholar will have the opportunity to play the historic, internationally renowned E.M. Skinner Opus 327 pipe organ (4 manuals, 75 stops, 59 ranks). Designed in the American Symphonic style, the organ is a masterpiece of Skinner Organ Company's work and one of a select few near-original condition instruments which exemplify Ernest M. Skinner's genius.

 

Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist the Organist and Director of Music in rehearsals and performances

• Perform occasional service music, accompaniments, and voluntaries as assigned

• Practice and prepare assigned music

• Assist the Music Ministry with occasional organizational duties

• Assist at occasional external events and concerts held at St. Luke’s, including Opus 327 and AGO chapter events

• Attend all full choir rehearsals and performances

• Assist with Treble and Training Choir rehearsals (optional)

• Occasionally research and prepare brief Music Notes for publication in the bulletin and/or newsletter

• Assist and attend organ maintenance appointments as able

• Maintain an active presence in the local AGO Chapter and community Pursue AGO/RSCM certification

 

Compensation

In exchange for their time and services, the Organ Scholar shall receive:

• Weekly, one-hour lessons with the St. Luke’s Organist, tuition-free

• Annual stipend of $2,000

• Dedicated practice time on the world-class E.M. Skinner Opus 327 organ

• Occasional coaching and mentoring in Conducting, Musicianship, Voice, Theory, and other skills as needed

• Membership in the local American Guild of Organists chapter

• Assistance in preparing applications, auditions, and professional documents

• Reimbursement for the application fee for one professional certification exam

• Possible financial assistance to attend an RSCM, AGO, OHS, or other summer convention or training course

​

Time Commitment and Term Length

Because the exact duties of the Organ Scholar are to be determined in conjunction with the Organist and Director of Music, exact weekly hours will vary depending on the candidate and the needs of the program. Potential candidates should expect to devote anywhere from five to fifteen hours per week, inclusive of practice time. The appointment of an Organ Scholar is to last for one year (typically September-June) with the option of renewing or extending the length of the term at the Organist and Director of Music's discretion. The Organ Scholar will receive an evaluation meeting with the Organist and Director of Music once per semester.

 

Application Procedure

The ideal candidate for the Organ Scholar program will display a deep interest in the Organ, Choral Music, and Liturgy in the Anglican-Episcopal tradition. Advanced organ skills are not required, though a base amount of training and experience in keyboard and voice is expected. Candidates from all backgrounds, traditions, and experiences are encouraged to apply. Applications are being accepted through June 15, 2022. To submit an application, please provide a Letter of Interest (one page) and a brief resume describing your relevant experiences, interest in the Organ Scholar program, and desired outcomes if selected. Materials can be emailed as a .pdf file to Peter Morey, organist@stlukesevanston.org

​