University of Sheffield and Sheffield Cathedral Organ Scholarship

The Organ Scholarship is currently worth between £2700 and £3100 per annum, and is available to any undergraduate or postgraduate student studying at the Department of Music. The post is held for one year, but is renewable for up to three. Your duties require you to be resident in Sheffield for University and choir terms, which include Christmas and Easter Day.

About the Cathedral

Sheffield Cathedral is the city's oldest building; the ancient heart of a great city. There has been a choir at Sheffield Cathedral for centuries, with the tradition remaining as strong as ever. Around 40 boys, girls and men sing regular services as well as performing for a variety of special occasions both in and beyond the Cathedral.

Duties at Sheffield Cathedral

• Accompany a limited number of examined student recitals
• Perform a solo recital once a term as part of the University Concert Series, and other occasional recitals as needed.
• Accompany and occasionally direct chamber choir rehearsals, and concerts
• Occasionally provide piano accompaniment in students’ instrumental lessons
• Help students studying modules in Piano Accompaniment and Ensemble Skills
• Assist with the University and Cathedral Summer Music and Arts Festival

The Organ Scholarship is designed to give you an all-round experience of a cathedral musician's work. The Director and Assistant Director of Music offer supervision and training in all areas of the musical life of the Cathedral. The post will be tailored to your particular strengths and interests.

In an average week, you may reasonably be expected to attend all sung services (Tuesday-Sunday), as well as rehearsals immediately before these services. You will also accompany one service (possibly more as time goes on), take either or both of the probationer practices (Friday and Sunday) and deputise for either the Director or Assistant Director of Music in their absence.

Duties at the Department of Music

The Organ Scholar will take an active role in the musical life of the department, participating in a busy programme of concerts, rehearsals, lectures, instrumental lessons and other events.

Benefits for the post holder

• The rare combination of undertaking a cathedral organ scholarship while receiving a musical education from one of the country’s leading universities
• Free access to the Cathedral and University organs
• The chance to rehearse, accompany and occasionally direct the Cathedral Choirs, and University Chamber Choir
• The opportunity to take an equal share in any special Cathedral services (weddings, funerals, carol services for outside organisations) and University events, civic services, carol services and graduations. Additional fees are often applicable.
• Attend and participate in recordings and national broadcasts with the Cathedral Choirs
• Join international tours with the Cathedral Choirs, with travel and accommodation costs waivered. Recently, the Cathedral Choirs have visited the USA, Holland, Germany, France and Hungary, together with several cathedrals in the UK.