Chapter 1: Basic Organ Technique
* Introduces the organ's fundamentals, including its pedals, manuals, and stops.
* Teaches finger placement, foot pedal technique, and proper posture.
* Example: Practicing scales and chords with correct hand and foot movements.
Chapter 2: Hymn Playing
* Covers the principles of hymn accompaniment, such as chord voicings, registration, and transitions.
* Focuses on developing a fluent and expressive hymn-playing style.
* Example: Accompanying a hymn in a worship service with appropriate tempo and dynamics.
Chapter 3: Registration
* Explores the art of stop selection and combination to create a wide range of organ sounds.
* Explains the principles of organ registration, including contrasts, swells, and imitative effects.
* Example: Using different registrations to depict the text of a hymn, such as soft stops for the verses and full organ for the chorus.
Chapter 4: Improvisation
* Introduces the basics of improvising on the organ, including chord progressions, cadences, and hymn embellishments.
* Encourages organists to develop their creative abilities and enhance their worship leading.
* Example: Improvising a brief introduction or interlude for a hymn, using simple chords and harmonic progressions.
Chapter 5: Offertory and Postlude Playing
* Discusses the purpose and musical considerations for offertory and postlude playing.
* Provides guidelines for choosing appropriate repertoire and creating meaningful musical experiences.
* Example: Playing a calming and meditative offertory piece to prepare the congregation for communion, followed by a triumphant and uplifting postlude to conclude the service.
Chapter 6: Service Playing
* Covers the practical aspects of organ playing in a church service, including the role of the organist, rehearsal techniques, and dealing with unexpected situations.
* Emphasizes the importance of musical leadership and coordination with the worship team.
* Example: Leading a congregation through the liturgical music of a Sunday service, including hymns, anthems, and prelude/postlude.
Chapter 7: Introduction to Liturgical Music
* Introduces the various musical genres and styles used in Christian worship, such as Gregorian chant, classical music, and modern hymnody.
* Explores the historical and cultural context of liturgical music and its significance in worship.
* Example: Studying the characteristics of different liturgical music styles and incorporating them into organ playing.
Chapter 8: The Organ in Church Music
* Examines the role of the organ in the history and development of church music.
* Discusses the organ's unique contributions to worship, such as its grandeur, versatility, and ability to inspire.
* Example: Exploring the role of the organ in enhancing the spiritual and emotional experience of worshipers through its sound and presence.
