The Harrisburg Chapter of the American Guild of Organists will offer a limited number of Shenk Scholarships this summer to provide free instruction in organ playing. Piano students especially are invited to learn to play a different kind of keyboard instrument.

The scholarships will provide the equivalent of ten weeks of half-hour lessons with professional organists in the Harrisburg area. At the end of the lessons, the students will have an opportunity to participate in a recital for their family, friends, and chapter members.

The Shenk Scholarship is open to students entering grade four through those completing grade 12. Several places are available for college students not majoring in organ. The ability to read music is crucial, so having some experience with singing or playing an instrument is recommended.

The deadline for application is Thursday, April 30. A short application form must be submitted, and a recorded audition must be uploaded with the application. For more information, visit http://www.harrisburgago.org/education.

The Shenk Scholarship Fund was established in 2002 by the late Melvin Shenk in memory of his mother, Violette Shenk, to encourage qualified young school students to study the organ and to develop the skills and commitment to serve as church organists.

The Harrisburg Chapter of the AGO has nearly 100 members, ranging from those who love the organ but do not play to part-time or substitute church organists to full-time musicians and teachers with advanced degrees.

For more information on the chapter, visit http://www.harrisburgago.org.