YOST Scholar George Ke awarded Organ Scholarship at University of Oxford
George Ke is a Year 13 student at The Blue Coat School, Liverpool, studying A levels in Music, History, and Economics. He is an exceptionally talented musician, and has been awarded an organ scholarship at Lady Margaret Hall, Oxford to start September 2024 where he will be studying music.
Blue Coat School started its organ scholarship in 2018 following the refurbishment of its historic Father Willis organ, and George was one of the first organ scholars, with full sponsorship from YOST. The scholarship funds a weekly lesson and in addition George practices on average an hour a day to perfect his skills.
He says “The lessons are fabulous, and all the tutors have all been tremendous in not just improving technique, but also offering advice into musicality and interpretation. They have all been exceptionally friendly and insightful and go the extra mile in preparation for recitals and auditions”.
He is currently the organist at St Clare’s Church, Liverpool for Sunday mass. He also accompanied the school choir in the 2023 Blue Coat carol service. Last year, he played at the Royal College of Organists Young Performers Recital at Leeds Cathedral alongside two other young organists.
George will now pursue a music degree at university with an organ scholarship. He wants to get involved in all the different musical ensembles whether that be conducting, accompanying, gigging, or just performance, to build up experience in all kinds of genres and activities. He hopes to have a career in music.
Asked about how the scholarship has had an impact: “The organ scholarship has made a huge difference in boosting my musical confidence. Since joining the program, I've felt more comfortable seizing opportunities and trying new things because of the skills I've gained. For example, I took up being the piano rehearsal accompanist for the Liverpool NHS Choir in preparation for their carol service at Liverpool Cathedral, which was massively helped by previously playing hymns on the organ at church. These experiences have helped me see that I really do want to study music at university. Initially, I wasn't sure if it was something I wanted to dedicate myself to for three years, but now, thanks to all the choral and ensemble experiences through the organ, and the support from my tutors, I am positive it is something I want to study.”