Organ Scholar Appointed

Michael Swindlehurst Organ Scholarship

The churches of St Mary’s Saffron Walden and St Mary’s Wendens Ambo have appointed an organ scholar, in memory of Rev’d Canon Michael Swindlehurst.

The third Michael Swindlehurst Organ Scholar is Ziyi Wang, a year 11 pupil at Saffron Walden County High School.

Ziyi said, “I’m so grateful for this opportunity and for all the support. I’m really excited to start to expand my musical horizons.”

Scholars receive a grant and the scholarship provides organ tuition and opportunities for the successful applicant to develop a range of musical skills in a supportive environment. The Organ Scholar will be based at Saffron Walden, with the exception of one Sunday per month being spent at Wendens Ambo.

Oliver King, the Director of Music at St Mary’s, said, “"We are thrilled to have the opportunity to work with Ziyi over the next year or so, and warmly welcome her to the music team at St Mary’s. Her energy, drive, and enthusiasm for learning the organ came across very strongly at her audition and we hope that she enjoys her time with us.

Our Rector Rev'd Jeremy Trew said, "The organ scholarship allows St Mary's to actively support young people learning to play and perform with this versatile musical instrument, encouraging a new generation of musicians.  This is part of our role as a Church to pass on to a new generation that which we have found to be good."

Michael Swindlehurst was a much-loved member of the church and wider community. He was a volunteer at the Museum, a leading member of the United Nations Association, and involved in the History Society, the Talking Book and many other organisations. Michael was also a great supporter of the music at St Mary’s and the scheme both honours his memory and provides an opportunity for the comprehensive, holistic and professional training of young church musicians.