Who are our Scholars?
Our YOST Scholars are talented and committed young musicians aged 13-18, and based across the United Kingdom.
Students receive regular, high-quality tuition from expert professionals, and additional support and playing opportunities through our Regional Hubs, workshop days, and partnerships with the RCO and RSCM.
Applications are usually considered each June, with outcomes announced in July, and lesson funding running September-August. Applications for the coming September should therefore be submitted by 31st May. Our scholarships are means-tested, and aimed at those who would otherwise be unable to access organ tuition.
Who can apply?
Talented, committed young musicians aged 13-18, based anywhere in the UK. We are particularly interested to hear from students who are considering pursuing the organ in higher education or as a career.
What does the Scholarship cover?
A YOST Scholarship covers the cost of regular organ tuition, up to a total of £1000 per year per student. YOST Scholars can also attend our workshop days free of charge, and can contact us for advice and support at any time. Additional playing opportunities are provided through our Regional Hubs. Other benefits include free student membership of the RSCM and RCO.
How long does the Scholarship last?
Scholarships are awarded on a yearly basis, but can be renewed for up to five years subject to annual progress reviews.
Do I need to have an organ tutor already?
Sometimes our Scholars already have a tutor in mind, but normally we will work with you to match you with a highly-experienced YOST Tutor in your region. All tutors are carefully vetted in line with our Safeguarding Policy.
What level do I need to be on the organ?
We consider each case individually, but our YOST Scholars are usually at an intermediate level (Grade 4-5) or above on the organ and/or piano when they apply.
I’m interested in becoming a YOST Scholar: How do I apply?
Complete the application form and submit it by email director@yost.org.uk Please note that the form includes a request for supporting financial information and the names and contact details of two referees.
“Organ music is splendid and magnificent. It is a great pleasure to play and immerse myself in the worship of Sunday service. It was a bit nervous but also hugely exciting experience for me to play the remarkable cathedral pipe organ in parish and cathedral in Guildford for the first time. I am grateful to learn organ in Guildford Cathedral and serve as an organist in St. John’s the Evangelist, Merrow. May I take this opportunity to thank you the trustees and the director of the Young Organ Scholars Trust for their generous support, particularly for your care and advice all along in my application, and for supporting me in my learning journey.”
- Damian, aged 13 (Guildford)
“I am endlessly grateful for this scholarship and so excited to keep learning and growing as a young organist. This year I have performed in school assemblies regularly as ‘background’ music whilst people entered the hall. I was quite nervous for this the first time as it’s scary performing in front of people you know. However, once it was finished, I was glad I had done it and I knew it would help to build my confidence in public playing. Earlier this year, I accompanied a choir and a soloist on the organ for a wedding. This required a lot of practice to learn all of the new pieces and also had a lot of rehearsals. I found this incredibly nerve wrecking as I didn’t want to let the bride down, but everything ran smoothly and it was amazing to bring music to their special day. Playing in churches at Christmas or for weddings is a life skill I’m so grateful I had the opportunity to learn. The world of organ brings so many fantastic opportunities for me to work with amazing people and try things I never thought I would do.”
- Olivia, aged 15 (Liverpool Hub)