Overview
The Organ Program at Interlochen is the only one of its kind in the country, offering serious organ students an intensive and inspiring six-week immersion experience. The close-knit nature of the department enables daily interaction with faculty and colleagues, both formally and informally. In addition to weekly organ lessons, organ students participate in a daily organ seminar, which includes a studio class, master classes with guest artists, coached practicing and work in church service playing.
Program Details
Students complement their keyboard studies with classes including music theory, either choir or piano master class, and two additional electives. Students practice on one of nine practice instruments located in the organ building or on the 50-rank Aeolian-Skinner located in the Dendrinos Chapel/Recital Hall. Qualified students play in the interdenominational Sunday services held in Kresge auditorium, a 4,000 seat auditorium with a three to four second acoustic. All organ majors perform in one of the weekly organ recitals.
Audition Requirements
- Prepare at least one piano piece and one organ piece that best demonstrates the applicant's level of accomplishment on each instrument.
- Record two solo works of contrasting style on a CD or DVD.
- Submit the audition and label the recording and its casing with the applicant's full name, the program notation "H.S. Organ" and presented repertoire.
Interlochen recognizes that many organists start their organ studies in high school. Inexperienced organists with a strong piano background are encouraged to apply. Admission eligibility will be determined on the combined merits of the piano and organ selections.
