Organist/Pianist Bursary

 St Sampson’s Church PCC is offering a bursary of up to £1,000 to support individuals wishing to take lessons on the organ or digital piano. The primary aim is to help recipients learn hymns and church music, whether they are pianists keen to learn the organ or those wishing to enhance their piano skills.

Bursary Conditions

• Recipients must commit to playing at least once a month, or twelve times per year, during Sunday services at St Sampson’s for a period of two years.
• Following the two-year commitment, a fee will be considered.
• Applicants are expected to select their own teacher and submit the details for approval. Suggestions for teachers can be provided if needed.
• Once approved, the teacher will invoice St Sampson’s directly, who will then cover the lesson fees.

Eligibility

• Applicants of any age are welcome, but preference is given to those under 25 years old.

Application Process

• Contact Jane Newberry by email to janeandco@hotmail.com with details of your name, date of birth and current level of organ/piano playing.
• If you already have a music teacher, please supply their name and email address and confirm that you are happy for us to contact them for a reference
• If you do not currently have a music teacher, please provide the name and email address of a referee such as a school teacher, college tutor, vicar or other suitable person who knows you well and ideally has knowledge of your musical ability, and confirm that you are happy for us to contact them for a reference
• There is no final application date.  Applications will remain open until a bursary is awarded. 
• Additional Support

• The church provides access to an organ and digital piano, which may be practised on at any convenient time.
• Student membership of the Royal College of Organists (RCO), valued at £67, will be funded for those in full-time study.
• Further bursaries, discounts, and concessions may be available through the RCO.
• The RCO offers various courses and events to support learning and development. https://www.rco.org.uk/education.php

Further Information

• The RCO may be able to provide details of recommended teachers.
• RCO courses and events are available to bursary recipients.
• Information, advice and discounts are available from RCO. https://www.rco.org.uk