Organ Scholar (Job Ref: 846-MUS)
£14.80 per hour | 12 month Fixed Term | Part-time 25 HPW avg | Based in London, SW1P 1QW | Closing date 12 noon, 23rd February | Interview and Audition date 9th March
Rewards and Benefits Summary 2026
“Every aspect of the beauty of the Cathedral has a key part to play, its architecture, its art and especially its music, for music rises in and enriches the soul of humanity whenever our greatest endeavours and aspirations are being contemplated and expressed.”
+HE Cardinal Vincent Nichols, Charter for Sacred Music, 2021
Westminster Cathedral intends to appoint a post-graduate Organ Scholar with effect from 1 September 2026.
What you’ll be doing
The Grand Organ of Westminster Cathedral is considered by many to be the greatest achievement and crowning glory of Henry Willis III, one of England’s finest organ builders – and our Organ Scholar has privileged access to it for both performance and practice, playing a variety of services, accompanying the choir and giving recitals as part of the weekly concert series. The successful candidate will also act as registrant and assistant to the Assistant Master of Music at principal services.
Westminster Cathedral Choir is acclaimed as one of the world’s great choirs. The Cathedral’s founder, Cardinal Vaughan, intended its liturgies to be enriched with the finest music available and for the Choir to be the ‘jewel in the crown’ of English Catholicism. The Choir draws its repertoire from a rich seam of music written especially for Catholic liturgy, and plainchant is the well-spring from which the Choir’s musical activities flow. As Organ Scholar you will play a part in this fine tradition, directing the Lay Clerks at Vespers and Mass when required and assisting in the training of Choristers. You will also act as Choir Librarian.
Additionally, the Organ Scholar will be responsible for the smooth running of the Music Department in regards to helping to prepare and distribute material for departmental activities, the administration of concert series and the organisation, and accompaniment as required, of visiting choirs.
This means there’s lots to get involved in – and to be excited about.
What We’re Looking For
We’re seeking someone who is not only competent in Music but who also embodies our diocesan values of Competence, Reliability, Honesty, Perseverance, and Love.The scholarship is usually awarded to post-graduates who hold at least the diploma of Associate of the Royal College of Organists (or equivalent standard), and who intend to seek a career in church music. The scholarship will be of particular interest to those who seek to further their experience of music within the Roman Catholic liturgy.
As a resident in the Clergy House, the Organ Scholar will be expected to take an active interest in the general life of the Cathedral. Although it is not a requirement that Organ Scholars should be Roman Catholic, they should be in sympathy with the Catholic ethos and identity of both the House and the Cathedral.
Experience working in a faith-based or charitable setting is welcome but not essential.
What we offer you
In return for your hard work and commitment to us, you will receive a competitive reward package which will include, but is not limited to:
✔23 days annual leave + bank holidays (pro rata for part time employees)
✔Vouchers for free eye tests and £50 towards the cost of glasses
✔Reward Gateway scheme offering discounts on a wide range of products and services
✔Pension scheme for eligible employees – 5% paid by the employer
✔Salary exchange (salary sacrifice) for pension
✔Cycle to work scheme
✔Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
✔Employee Assistance Programme
✔Life assurance/ Death in Service benefit
Who we are
We are the Roman Catholic Diocese of Westminster, a faith-driven charity rooted in service, tradition, and community.
At the core of our mission is a commitment to faith, education, and social justice. Guided by the Archbishop-Elect, we serve over 90,000 students across 208 schools, support 212 vibrant parishes, and drive countless social initiatives that bring hope and compassion to those in need. Our work extends beyond the Church walls, positively shaping communities and transforming lives.
We uphold the values of Competence, Reliability, Honesty, Perseverance, and Love—principles that define our mission and shape the way we serve. As we grow our team, we seek individuals who not only possess the skills for the role but also embody these values in their daily work.
If you are looking for a role where your talents, faith, and commitment to service can make a real difference, we would love to hear from you.
Diversity & Inclusion at the Diocese of Westminster and place it at the heart of our aim which is to reflect and connect with the diverse communities that we serve.
Application details
Our people are our most important asset and we value and respect diversity in all its forms (seen and unseen). We particularly welcome applications from those from Black and Asian backgrounds, as well as candidates with disabilities and from the communities in which we work. We would like to increase representation of these groups among our staff as we know greater diversity will lead to an even greater impact for our work.
To be considered for the role, please complete an online application. CVs will NOT be considered, therefore, please do not send them. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted. Please note that you will need to be eligible to work in the UK to apply for this position. You must provide proof of Right to Work in the UK. We reserve the right to remove the vacancy before closing date.