Specialist, Creative Arts​/Media, Music ​/ Audio Production

Position: STAFF SPECIALIST
Occupational Summary

Duke University Chapel invites applications for the position of Organ Scholar for the  academic year. This full-time, ten-month position begins in August 2026 and concludes in June 2027, with potential for continued service through June and July. Benefits are included, as is housing.

Overview

Established in 2015, the organ scholar program at Duke University Chapel provides an immersive and supportive environment for students of organ and church music.

The successful candidate will have access to the exceptional organs in Duke University Chapel, Duke Divinity School, a new Bösendorfer grand piano, as well as several harpsichords and practice instruments in the Department of Music. Although the position is akin to a paid internship, the Organ Scholar serves as an integral member of the Chapel Music staff and is expected to maintain the highest level of performance and professional standards in music making, communication, and other responsibilities.

Responsibilities

Responsibilities include:

* Serve as principal accompanist for the Evensong Singers including anthems, psalmody, and hymnody

* Prepare and play preludes, postludes, and other service music as needed, and assist with weekly organ demonstrations featuring Chapel instruments

* Attend all services, regular rehearsals, and special rehearsals or sectionals of the Chapel Choir, Evensong Singers, and Schola Cantorum

* Maintain a regular schedule of individual practice using available instruments in the Chapel, Divinity School, and Department of Music

* Play 15 weddings (included in salary and not compensated separately)

* Learn and perform continuo accompaniments and solo literature for early music programs, possibly including Bach cantata programs and Handel's Messiah

* Attend regular meetings or coaching sessions regarding musical and administrative tasks

* Research and write music notes for Evensong bulletins and other special services

The Organ Scholar may also pursue these and similar opportunities:

* Serve as organist for funerals, academic ceremonies, and other special events (compensated separately)

* Develop a program of study for service playing, choral accompaniment, improvisation, conducting, continuo realization, or other areas of interest with members of the Chapel music staff

* Under mentorship of Chapel music staff, prepare for a full recital on campus and/or complete a professional certification (e.g. AGO examinations)

Qualifications

Candidates for the position of Organ Scholar must:

* Have a degree (BA, BM, MA, MM, or DMA) in organ performance or equivalent certifications from the American Guild of Organists or Royal College of Organists

* Exhibit commitment to continued professional work as a church musician

* Demonstrate previous experience in choral accompaniment and conducting

* Possess advanced proficiency in public performance of organ repertoire

The following skills will also be considered in evaluation of candidates:

* Sight-reading proficiency

* Exceptional oral and written communication skills

* Strong interpersonal skills

Application Instructions

To apply , please complete the application process through Duke Careers and be prepared to upload (.pdf) or paste the following when prompted:

* A one-page cover letter describing your past qualifications and future interests as they pertain to this role

* Curriculum vitae and repertoire list

* A document or list containing URL links for no more than five (5) recordings that demonstrate proficiency in any of the following areas: (a) performances of significant organ repertoire including a major work by J. S. Bach; (b) leadership of congregational singing; (c) proficiency in choral accompaniment or continuo playing

* Contact information for three (3) references

Review of applications will begin on 5 January 2026; materials received by then will receive full consideration, though all applications will be considered until the position is filled.

Duke University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information,…