The ACT Organ School was founded in 2003 by the Wesley Music Foundation in collaboration with a number of private schools and churches, who together have provided scholarships and other vital financial support from the outset. It arose in direct response to an acute need for high quality pipe organ teaching in Canberra. Since then over 30 students – from secondary school to mature age – have participated in the program; most play regularly for church services and several are taking their studies further at tertiary level. Lessons are normally given on the magnificent 3-manual Wesley Church organ; the program is administered through the Wesley Music Centre.

During the first five years of its operation students were guided in their studies by two of Australia’s leading organists, Peter Guy (Director of Music, Newcastle Cathedral) and Philip Swanton (Head of Organ Studies at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music), from whom they also enjoyed regular master classes, workshops and performances.

At the start of 2009 the Organ School entered a new phase in its operation. Philip Swanton now visits Canberra each Thursday afternoon of the school term and, for the first time since its inception, students are receiving weekly (as opposed to fortnightly) lessons. Currently places are extremely limited, though, and tuition is only available for school students of proven aptitude. Pianists in school Years 7-9, who might wish to consider ‘upgrading’ to pipe organ, are welcome to contact the Wesley Music Centre to discuss options. A pass at “credit” level in AMEB Grade 5 piano (or above) is a highly desirable prerequisite.

It is hoped that it will be possible to expand the School’s teaching capacity again in the near future – as soon as suitably experienced and qualified teaching staff can be found. In the meantime, mature age students wishing to (re-)commence lessons are also warmly invited to register their interest.

Enquiries: 02 6232 7248 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it (Wesley Music Centre)