Instrumental scholarships are offered as either individual or ensemble scholarships. They pay the full cost of weekly half-hour (or one hour in some cases) instrumental lessons, plus ensemble coaching, for the academic year. Though formal musical qualifications are not a condition for applying, we would normally expect candidates to be of a standard of at least ABRSM Grade 8. Scholars are expected to attend lessons punctually and reliably and to devote time to private practice, as guided by their teacher. In addition, scholars will be expected to become fully involved in the musical life of the University, for example by playing in Music Centre ensembles. Each scholar will be expected to perform at least once during the year in a Music Centre concert; guidance will be given by the Director of Music.
Piano scholarships
Up to four piano scholarships are available, including two Christina Kennedy Piano Scholarships which provide one hour of tuition per week. Piano scholars have solo performance opportunities in masterclasses and concerts. As well as working on solo repertoire, all piano scholars are expected to undertake regular accompanying duties. The extent of these duties may vary depending on experience, but is likely to include accompanying other students in lessons, rehearsals and performances. The maximum regular contact time per week is two and a half hours. Accompanying is overseen by the Head of Instrumental Studies, Bede Williams.
Organ scholarships
Information about organ scholarships can be found here.
Brass ensemble scholarships
A number of brass scholarships will be awarded to students who will make up the Music Centre’s brass quartet/quintet. Each student will receive individual tuition and weekly coaching as part of the ensemble from Bede Williams. The groups will be expected to rehearse regularly between coaching sessions, and to be available to play at University events.
Jazz quartet/quintet scholarships
Students will receive lessons from an instrumental specialist and coaching as a quartet/quintet from Richard Michael. Students with little or no experience in improvisation are welcome to apply, though scholarship recipients will normally be those with some experience in jazz improvisation. String, wind, brass, keyboard, guitar and percussion players are welcome to apply.
Saxophone quartet scholarships
Up to four saxophone scholarships will be awarded to students who will make up the Music Centre’s saxophone quartet. Each student will receive individual tuition and weekly coaching as part of the quartet from Cat Evison. The quartet will be expected to rehearse regularly between coaching sessions, to participate in the Saxophone Ensemble, and to be available to play at University events.
String quartet scholarships
As a result of a generous bequest from the estate of Hetty Buchanan, a cellist who was deeply involved in music in St Andrews throughout her life, we are able to offer scholarships to string players who will make up the Hetty Buchanan String Quartet, as well as one or two other quartets if suitable candidates present themselves. Each student will receive individual tuition from an appropriate teacher, regular coaching as part of the quartet from our Associate Teachers, and occasional coaching from Lucy Russell (Honorary Professor of Strings, and leader of the Fitzwilliam String Quartet). The quartets will be expected to rehearse regularly between coaching sessions, and to be available to play at University events.
Wind quintet scholarships
Up to five wind scholarships (flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, French horn) will be awarded to students who will make up the Music Centre’s wind quintet. Each student will receive individual tuition, and weekly coaching as part of the quintet from Alex South and from other visiting tutors including members of the Scottish Chamber Orchestra. The quintet will be expected to rehearse regularly between coaching sessions, and to be available to play at University events.
Scholarship holders are required to join the Music Centre.