At a Glance
- Tasks: Be the principal keyboard musician, playing for chapel services and public recitals.
- Company: Join a prestigious university with a rich musical tradition.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous leave, and a flexible working environment.
- Other info: Engage with diverse communities and contribute to a vibrant cultural scene.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the university's musical community and mentor aspiring musicians.
- Qualifications: Degree in Music and diploma in organ performance required.
To serve as the principal keyboard musician for the University, responsible for all aspects of organ playing, providing world‑class organ accompaniment for chapel services, graduation ceremonies, and public recitals. The post-holder accompanies the Chapel Choir, acts as a custodian of the university's pipe organs, and mentors student organ scholars. The Organist provides occasional support for the Director of Chapel Music as needed and must apply flexibility in relation to working patterns within the contracted hours for the role.
Main Duties and Responsibilities:
- Play for a range of regular and ad‑hoc services and ceremonial events including but not limited to Chapel Services, Choral Recitals, Graduations, Commemoration Day, and University Memorial Services.
- Act as the primary accompanist for the University Chapel Choir, working closely with the Director of Chapel Music to prepare complex choral repertoire.
- Organise, promote, and perform in a regular series of public organ recitals to further civic engagement and promote the university’s musical profile.
- Assist with the promotion of the organ and choral scholarships, and support the recruitment and audition processes.
- Supervise and tutor the University Organ Scholars, providing tuition and guidance and coordinating their playing schedule.
- Occasionally assist academic subject areas with demonstrations relating to organ history, construction, and repertoire.
- Report issues relating to the tuning and mechanical condition of the university organs to ensure the engagement of external organ contractors and support routine maintenance processes.
- Work flexibly and proactively with the Chaplaincy Team and Director of Chapel Music to ensure the delivery and promotion of an annual calendar of services and events.
- Contribute to the university’s musical tradition through professional engagement with students, staff, alumni, donors, and the local community.
- Ensure strict adherence to university safeguarding policies and observance of copyright laws.
- Liaise with Commercial Services in relation to wedding services taking place in the University Chapel.
Knowledge, Qualifications, Skills and Experience:
Essential:
- A1 Scottish Credit and Qualification Framework level 9 in Music, or equivalent, and experience of personal development in a similar or related role(s).
- A2 A diploma in organ performance or equivalent demonstrable experience.
- A3 Proven record as a skilled soloist and choral accompanist with proficiency in solo organ literature from Baroque to contemporary commissions.
- A4 Knowledge of organ mechanics and pipe maintenance with the ability to identify and troubleshoot minor issues.
Desirable:
- B1 Further relevant professional qualification e.g. Fellowship of the Royal College of Organists or postgraduate study.
- B2 An active interest in the study, interpretation, and continued relevance of organ and church music within a historic academic institution.
- B3 An interest in pursuing academic projects.
Skills:
Essential:
- C1 High level of proficiency in improvisation, sight-reading, score-reading, and transposition.
- C2 Demonstrable skill in writing and arranging for organ.
- C3 Strong organisation and events management skills.
- C4 Excellent communication and presentation skills.
Experience:
Essential:
- E1 Significant liturgical organ-playing experience.
- E2 Demonstrable experience of programming diverse, high quality and engaging organ recitals.
- E3 Experience of providing tuition and guiding professional development for early career musicians.
- E4 Experience of concert programming or outreach work.
- E5 Experience of working collaboratively in a complex setting.
Desirable:
- F1 Experience working within a Higher Education/Chaplaincy setting.
- F2 Experience of taking choir rehearsals/choral conducting.
- F3 Experience of working with historic instruments.
Terms and Conditions:
Salary will be Grade 7, £41,064 - £46,049 per annum pro rata. This post is part-time (28 hours per week), and open ended. Closing date: 23:45 31st July 2026.
The University of Glasgow has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
As a valued member of our team, you can expect a warm welcoming and engaging organisational culture, an excellent employment package, a flexible approach to working, and a commitment to support your health and wellbeing.
Equality, diversity, and inclusion are at the heart of our values. Applications are particularly welcome from across our communities.
University Organist in Glasgow employer: University of Glasgow
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