Choral and Organ Open Day

Merton's chapel provides outstanding opportunities for participating in liturgical music as well as offering exceptional performance, touring and recording experience. We offer awards to singers and organists who contribute to this aspect of college life. Choral scholars at Oxford are trained to a very high level through the choir and some go on to become professional singers. Toby Spence, Emma Kirkby and Robin Blaze were all Oxford choral scholars.

Organ scholars also play a crucial part in Merton and Oxford music. The role develops skills in choral accompanying, direction, and administration. Many Oxford organ scholars have gone on to become celebrated musicians whilst others have attained distinction elsewhere, including a Prime Minister and a Hollywood actor.

This open day was an opportunity for prospective applicants to find out what's involved in being an organ or choral scholar and how to apply. The day included informative talks and Q&As with current students and Directors of Music, as well as advice on how to prepare for auditions. There was also the opportunity to take part in choral, organ, and conducting workshops in various historic college chapels, and to join a college choir for Evensong.