Applicants

Students and adults of all ages are encouraged to apply.  The successful candidate will have sufficient keyboard skills, including fluent reading in treble and bass clefs, and literature of moderate difficulty.  Awards are made with no regard for religious affiliation, race, gender identity, or sexual orientation.

The Interview and Audition

Candidates are interviewed and auditioned by two NEWAGO members.  The interview explores the candidate’s interest as a church or synagogue musician.  The audition demonstrates the candidate’s keyboard skills, which includes playing (normally on piano) one solo piece, one four-part hymn of the candidate’s choosing, and basic sight reading.

Scholarship Benefits

A total of ten lessons is provided for a scholarship.  Scholarships are renewable once depending on the student’s interest and the teacher’s recommendation.  In addition to lessons, the scholarships provide lesson music, and, for first time recipients, a one year membership in the American Guild of Organists.

Teachers

Lessons are provided by a member of the American Guild of Organists, normally from the Northeastern Wisconsin Chapter, who has received either a degree in music or equivalent level of music education at a college or university, and has received extensive organ training.  Teachers and students work together to schedule lesson times and locations.  In the interest of the protection of children and vulnerable adults, all program teachers have passed background checks, and all lessons are held in publicly-accessible venues.  Parents and guardians are welcome to sit in on lessons for minor-age students.

Practice Instrument

Students must have access to practice on an acceptable instrument that includes two or more keyboards which are vertically aligned, and a pedalboard of at least 25 notes (two octaves).  Pipe or electronic organs are acceptable.  Rehearsal instruments may be provided by the student’s home congregation, although NEWAGO can assist applicants in obtaining access to a suitable instrument.  Students are expected to make time for several hours of practice between lessons.