2025-2026 New Organist Scholarship Information

The Richmond Chapter of the American Guild of Organists (AGO) invites applications for its New Organist Scholarship Program, which supports talented pianists and aspiring organists entering grade 8 or above in Fall 2024. Up to three scholarships will be awarded to individuals who show musical promise and a commitment to serving in church music ministry.

This program exists in response to a growing shortage of trained organists in our region and across the country. By supporting the next generation of organists, we hope to strengthen the musical life of churches of all denominations and sizes.

Scholarship Benefits 

Recipients will receive::

  •  15 private 45-minute organ lessons per semester (September–December and January–May) with a local AGO-affiliated teacher
  •  50% tuition support ($25 per lesson; student responsible for $375/semester or $750/year)
  •  Organ practice time arranged on a suitable local instrument
  •  One-year student membership in the American Guild of Organists, including local and national publications
  •  Introduction at a fall AGO chapter event
  •  Performance opportunity at the May 2026 chapter meeting
  •  Consideration for scholarship renewal in cases of exceptional progress

Student Responsibilities 

Scholarship recipients (and parents when applicable) must agree to:

  • Practice faithfully and attend lessons regularly
  • Promptly purchase organ playing shoes and music
  • Pay the student portion of the lesson fees each semester
  • Play in a public recital at the May, 2026 meeting of the Richmond AGO Chapter

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Be entering grade 8 or above in Fall 2025
  • Have no previous organ study beyond an elementary level
  • Demonstrate a strong interest in church music and solid keyboard skills
  • Receive teacher approval (piano or organ, depending on audition instrument)

Audition Requirements:

Applicants may audition on piano or organ.

  • Piano Audition:
    • Two classical pieces of contrasting style (one pre-19th century, one 19th century or later), approx. 5 minutes each, grade 4 or above (e.g., Clementi Sonatina, faster movements)
    • Major scales (up to 4 sharps/flats) hands together, two octaves
    • Hymn sight-reading and two-part counterpoint reading
    • Simple aural and written music tests
  • Organ Audition:
    • Two contrasting pieces (pre-19th and post-19th century), approx. 3–5 minutes each; pedals optional
    • Major scales (as above) on manuals only
    • Hymn and counterpoint sight-reading (manuals only)
    • Simple aural and written music tests

How to Apply:

  • Application deadline: Saturday, August 23, 2025. Download the application.
  • Auditions held: Tuesday, August 26, 2025, beginning at 7:00 PM at All Saints Episcopal Church (8787 River Road, Richmond, 23229)

Questions 

Contact Scott Hayes, New Organist Scholarship Coordinator at shayes@allsaintsrichmond.org or at All Saints Church by calling 804.288.7811.