At a Glance
- Tasks: Join the Canterbury Cathedral Music Department as an Organ Scholar, playing and supporting musical outreach.
- Company: Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and iconic church.
- Benefits: £10,307.81 salary, free accommodation, and funded organ lessons.
- Other info: Opportunity for personal growth and to make a meaningful impact in music.
- Why this job: Be part of a historic musical community and enhance your skills in a prestigious setting.
- Qualifications: Gifted organist with strong musicianship and improvisation skills.
The predicted salary is between 31650 - 35892 £ per year.
£10,307.81 paid over 11 months (September 2026 to July 2027)
Closing Date: 30-Aug-26
Interviewing: 07-Sep-26
About Canterbury Cathedral:
Canterbury Cathedral is the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury, and the Mother Church of the Church of England and the worldwide Anglican Communion. Founded by St Augustine, it is one of the UK's most-visited historic sites and forms part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The role as an Organ Scholar:
This is an exciting opportunity for an early-career organist to join the Canterbury Cathedral Music Department as Organ Scholar, and to become part of the musical life of Canterbury Cathedral. You will be expected to attend all rehearsals and services when on duty and take a share of the organ playing at these (10 hours per week plus special services and events) and offer an additional 7 hours per week to the Cathedral in further playing and supporting our musical work through outreach and administration. In addition to free accommodation within the Cathedral Precincts, the Cathedral will fund regular organ lessons during your Scholarship.
What we're looking for:
- A gifted organ soloist and accompanist of choral repertoire, psalms and hymns, with proficient improvisation skills;
- A high level of personal musicianship.
To be considered for this role we will need your CV, a supporting statement and a complete application, in addition to a link to a YouTube video showing you playing a piece of your choice. For full details please see the application pack.
If you wish to have an informal conversation about the role of Organ Scholar or to ask questions in advance of application, please contact the Director of Music, David Newsholme, by email: music@canterbury-cathedral.org
A satisfactory enhanced with barring DBS disclosure is required for this post. As applications are received, interviews may take place prior to the advertised closing date. We reserve the right to close this advertisement early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications. We welcome applications from underrepresented groups. Canterbury Cathedral is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. All post holders and volunteers are expected to share this commitment. At this time, Canterbury Cathedral is unable to provide visa sponsorship. Applicants must already hold the right to work in the UK.
Organ Scholar in Canterbury employer: Canterbury Cathedral
Canterbury Cathedral offers a unique and enriching environment for aspiring musicians, providing not only a prestigious role as Organ Scholar but also free accommodation within the historic Cathedral Precincts. With a commitment to fostering musical talent through funded organ lessons and a vibrant work culture that values collaboration and outreach, this position is ideal for those seeking meaningful growth in their musical journey while being part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
