Join acclaimed Westminster organ faculty members Kenneth Cowan and Matthew Lewis, Princeton University Organist Eric Plutz, and Alan Morrison, Chair of the Organ Department at Curtis Institute for a two week course offering young organists a unique opportunity combining rigorous organ study with an engaging choral experience. Highlights of this year’s institute will be a final choral concert in Princeton University Chapel, an organ recital on the Westminster campus and a trip to New York City to hear and play some of the region’s most noted organs. Students will participate in regular choral activities and rehearsals with Westminster’s renowned choral and vocal faculty in collaboration with the Vocal Institute. Students experience Westminster Choir College’s expertise preparing students for career opportunities in church music. One of the premier schools for organ study in the United States, Westminster features a collection of 15 pipe organs by major builders, including recital instruments by Aeolian-Skinner, Casavant and Fisk, as well as practice instruments by Noack, Beckerath, Flentrop, Holtkamp, Möller, Phelps and Schantz.

June 27 - July 9, 2010
Tuition: $1500

Enrollment is open to students entering the 9th grade through those who have just completed their senior year. Enrollment is limited to 24 organists.

Program Highlights

• Private lessons and master classes with the organ faculty 
• Attend classes in musical style, technique, history, literature and registration 
• Classes in liturgical organ playing and improvisation 
• Learn effective techniques for practicing, performance anxiety and memorization 
• Learn how to prepare for auditions and college applications 
• Trip to New York City to hear and play some of the region’s most noted organs 
• Students will perform in an organ recital on the Westminster Campus Friday, July 17th (family and friends are encouraged to attend)
• Students will sing in the Vocal Institute choral Concert on Saturday, July 18th (family and friends are encouraged to attend

Daily Schedule

The daily schedule includes morning and afternoon sessions on varying topics including organ literature, hymn playing and improvisation and master classes. Private lessons are offered weekdays except when off campus. Participation in Vocal Institute rehearsals, and free time for practice on Westminster’s many pipe organs complete this rich experience. Evening and weekend activities will feature special presentations, social events and recitals.