Supporting our future organists
The RSCM’s grant from the Pratt-Green Trust was used to support organ scholarships at the RSCM Bath Course, our flagship week-long summer residential choral course for young people. Two scholarships were supported in 2022 and one in 2023, giving young organists (aged 16-21) the opportunity to benefit from the high-level tuition and wider experiences on offer. Bath Course Organ Scholars benefit from individualised training from the course organist, a highly experienced player and teacher, as well as from the other members of the music staff team, many of whom are experienced organists themselves.
Organ Scholars learn through actively observing the work of the course organist (acting as page-turner and registrant) as well as playing themselves in both whole course and smaller group contexts. A wide range of music is sung on the course so the scholars have the opportunity to accompany the singers in music of a variety of styles and genres, developing important accompaniment skills that will be vital to them in the future. With small numbers taking part, Organ Scholars benefit from tailored support that builds on their current experience and skill level.
Organ Scholars gain experience playing a variety of instruments, from smaller instruments in the school chapel and local churches to the Klais at Bath Abbey. In 2023, the Organ Scholar took part in a lunchtime organ recital at Bath Abbey, together with the course organist, providing the opportunity to practise those performance skills that can only be developed in a real-life environment.
The Bath Course programme is designed to give the Scholars the opportunity to develop the skills needed for their future work as an organist, whether in a professional or amateur context. One of the 2022 scholars has recently taken up a cathedral organ scholarship.
For singers and organists alike, the Bath Course is an important opportunity to meet and connect with other young people with similar interests, developing a community of young people who are keen to see church music flourish into the future.