Secrets of Organ Playing Podcast

Let's start episode SOPP729 of Secrets of Organ Playing Podcast. This question was sent by Nick and he writes:Hi there! Been following your site for a while (and even bought a few pieces). I just recently stepped up to learn organ for my church – it's a Catholic traditional Latin church, so I'm being asked to play hymns, interludes, and to accompany chant when I can. It's been a while since I've been at the keyboard – so I've started myself over in theory books (currently in book 4 of a 10 book series) and am doing my best to start to learn pedals. I've been working with a local teacher here who is a concert organist and we've been going through the New Oxford Organ Method book along with Flor Peeters' Little Organ Book. I recently saw that you all have the total organist course and I'm interested – however I also don't want to make the mistake of grabbing too many resources. I'm emailing to get some insight into the course – is there a way it would be able to help me develop my skills faster than where I'm at now? Or, would there be a course or two that you'd recommend for purchase that would help me? Thanks for a great website – I've been enjoying the content so far (and used your Laetare Sunday prelude before Mass this year – so thank you for that!) God bless,Nick

Welcome to Secrets of Organ Playing Podcast No. 728! It's Vidas and usually we do these conversations with Ausra but today I'm delighted to speak with a very special guest—someone whose music has brought inspiration, beauty, and calm to listeners and performers around the world.Dr. James Michael Stevens, joining us from Nashville, Tennessee, is a remarkably prolific composer, pianist, and educator. He currently serves as the Dean of the School of Music at Welch College, and his creative output is nothing short of astonishing. With thousands of published compositions, Dr. Stevens has developed a signature style that blends lyrical grace, spiritual depth, and heartfelt simplicity.Many of his works, especially his meditative piano pieces, have become favorites among church musicians, educators, and recording artists alike. His music resonates deeply with people looking for comfort, peace, and emotional honesty—and more recently, it has also found a home in the repertoires of organists.In this episode, we'll explore how James approaches composition and stays so remarkably productive. We'll discuss how he balances creative flow with discipline, what inspires the emotional tone of his music, and how sacred themes guide his writing. We'll also talk about his experiences in music education, the challenges and rewards of publishing, and what advice he would give to aspiring composers and church musicians today.Enjoy the conversation!James Michael Stevens Website:https://www.jamesmichaelstevens.com/welcome.htmlAll music at Sheet Music Plus:https://www.sheetmusicplus.com/en/category/arrangeme/?q=James+M+Stevens+Music+ASCAP?&aff_id=605733Organ Solo Music at Sheet Music Plus:https://www.sheetmusicplus.com/en/category/instruments/piano-and-keyboard/organ/organ-solo/?prefn1=artists_composers&prefv1=James+Michael+StevensSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7oMHPMTAKVFtskAXuQ4u1k?si=vk9WqmheTUWEfnAAJpUGIAJames Michael Stevens

Let's start episode 727 of Secrets of Organ Playing Podcast. This question was sent by Gene and he writes:My question is tempo, on BWV 624: Hilf Gott, dass mir's gelinge by J.S. Bach. I'm amazed that I can play it pretty well,  and it sounds pretty good on my funny, little house organ. Fluit 4, on the triplets and to Pedal. Cantus on Principal 8. I can play it @75, metronome, mostly. Soon, I will be able to do it, start-to-finish. Of course, I listen to people on YouTube playing it much faster. Is this an embarrassingly slow tempo? What should be a goal?

Welcome to episode 726 of Secrets of Organ Playing Podcast! This question was sent by Tamsin and she writes:I have a technical question that you might be able to shed some light on.  When playing Baroque repertoire I usually use all-toes technique.  I would like to ask if you find foot-crossing and other elements of all-toes technique easier to perform on a straight pedal board than on a radial pedal board since the distance does not change.  Put another way, do you think that radiating pedal boards suit heel-and-toe technique better?Many thanks and warm regards,Tamsin

Let's start episode 725 of Secrets of Organ Playing Podcast. This question was sent by Steve and he writes:Is it possible at 78 years old to memorize?Hope you will enjoy this conversation!​

Let's start episode 724 of Secrets of Organ Playing Podcast. This question was sent by Kathrin writes:I can‘t play versets for services like confirmation. I need festive, more or less bold and „friendly“ pieces, at least between 3 to 5 minutes, pieces with repeats are always nice. The „biggest“ organs I play regularly have 14 (a mechanical organ) and 12 (pneumatic organ) ranks on two manuals, no preparations. What would you suggest, not to play Dubois‘ „Fanfare“ and BWV 553 every year?

Let's start episode 723 of Secrets of Organ Playing Podcast. This question was sent by Filippa and she writes:Hi Vidas,1. My dream would be for the idea of improvisation not to make me very nervous and to be something I can do with some degree of confidence!2. The 3 things holding me back are: chord progressions and harmonizations while improvising, not practicing improvisation like I practice my repertoire, and needing lots more SUPER simple videos like you share to help me learn.I would love to see more videos about simple improvisations- I am a great organist, but improvisation is (and has always been!) a major “black hole” for me- and I am getting a lot out of your videos about harmonization, chord progressions, and simple improvisation. More of these simple videos, or ones that build on the video would be most helpful.For example, I used the techniques in the “Auld Lang Syne” video to make an improvisation on St. Brendan's (They'll know we are Christians”) as it is also pentatonic -in an ABA format (I'm going to use a bicinium for the B part I think).  But it was something you mentioned could be done to expand in the Auld Lang Syne video, and I'm working on it as something for communion for a job interview.I think you do a really excellent job of explaining things very simply- I have made it a goal for 2025 to work on the techniques you are sharing for improvisation, rather than just “being stuck to the page”. I need it so simply and clearly explained. Thank you!Filippa DukeYou can support this channel by becoming a member here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO4K3_6QVJI_HlI5PCFQqtg/joinIf you like what I do, you can buy me some coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/organduoPayPal: https://PayPal.Me/VPinkeviciusWe support Ukraine: https://www.blue-yellow.lt/enMy Hauptwerk setup: https://www.organduo.lt/tools.htmlTotal Organist - the most comprehensive organ training program online: https://www.organduo.lt/total-organistSecrets of Organ Playing - When You Practice, Miracles Happen! https://organduo.ltListen to my organ playing on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0ckKPIvTWucoN3CZwGodCO?si=YWy7_0HqRvaZwBcovL-RKg#secretsoforganplaying #vidaspinkevicius #ausramotuzaite

Let's start episode 722 of Secrets of Organ Playing Podcast. This question was sent by Dawn and she writes: "My New Year's resolution is to be confident at improvising.You can support this channel by becoming a member here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO4K3_6QVJI_HlI5PCFQqtg/joinIf you like what I do, you can buy me some coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/organduoPayPal: https://PayPal.Me/VPinkeviciusWe support Ukraine: https://www.blue-yellow.lt/enMy Hauptwerk setup: https://www.organduo.lt/tools.htmlTotal Organist - the most comprehensive organ training program online: https://www.organduo.lt/total-organistSecrets of Organ Playing - When You Practice, Miracles Happen! https://organduo.ltListen to my organ playing on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0ckKPIvTWucoN3CZwGodCO?si=YWy7_0HqRvaZwBcovL-RKg#secretsoforganplaying #vidaspinkevicius #ausramotuzaite

Let's start episode 721 of Secrets of Organ Playing Podcast. This question was sent by Massimiliano and he writes:Hello Vidas,How are you?Since I have some problems with my eyesight and was looking for a somewhat large written edition. I wanted to ask you please what editions you use for Bach's music. In your videos I can't understand it well. I also wanted to ask you if you know a good manual for organ improvisation in style or if you can recommend something for study.Massimiliano

Let's start episode 720 of Secrets of Organ Playing Podcast. This question was sent by Maureen, and she writes:Dear Vidas,Could you advise me on how to play on a 1 manual organ? There are no foot pedals and no volume pedal.This organ was built for a side chapel in the Liverpool Anglican Cathedral.There are eight draw stops 1x16'; 2 x8'; 2x 4'; and 2 x 2' and stop which on its own sounds out of place.I only had time to play through 10 carols and rescue a service.I am most grateful.Thank you,MaureenYou can support this channel by becoming a member here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO4K3_6QVJI_HlI5PCFQqtg/joinIf you like what I do, you can buy me some coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/organduoPayPal: https://PayPal.Me/VPinkeviciusWe support Ukraine: https://www.blue-yellow.lt/enMy Hauptwerk setup: https://www.organduo.lt/tools.htmlTotal Organist - the most comprehensive organ training program online: https://www.organduo.lt/total-organistSecrets of Organ Playing - When You Practice, Miracles Happen! https://organduo.ltListen to my organ playing on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0ckKPIvTWucoN3CZwGodCO?si=YWy7_0HqRvaZwBcovL-RKg #secretsoforganplayingpodcast #vidaspinkevicius #ausramotuzaite

Welcome to episode 719 of Secrets of Organ Playing Podcast. This question was sent by Kurt and he writes:Dear Vidas,Thanks for Your newsletter and the advice and remarks for technical topics such as registration and daily exercises.My dream at the moment (as on beginner level) is to coordinate the pedal playing - it causes me so much power (and pain?) to get the brain (and hands and feet) in the right moment on the correct key on the manual(s) and or the pedal. It seems this will be a long way to go and get the body "divorced" for the time playing the organ.What holds me back?First, my own impatience, trying to proceed quicker than needed or expected from my teacher.Second, to leave the flat walking to the (cold) church for practicing....Third is, to not have enough funds to buy an organ for at home (and the space to install it here in my flat).So I hope You can follow my thoughts about organ playing and are of help for Your new coaching program.Wish You a great further day.Best regards from GermanyKurt.You can support this channel by becoming a member here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO4K3_6QVJI_HlI5PCFQqtg/joinIf you like what I do, you can buy me some coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/organduoPayPal: https://PayPal.Me/VPinkeviciusWe support Ukraine: https://www.blue-yellow.lt/enMy Hauptwerk setup: https://www.organduo.lt/tools.htmlTotal Organist - the most comprehensive organ training program online: https://www.organduo.lt/total-organistSecrets of Organ Playing - When You Practice, Miracles Happen! https://organduo.ltListen to my organ playing on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0ckKPIvTWucoN3CZwGodCO?si=YWy7_0HqRvaZwBcovL-RKg#secretsoforganplayingpodcast #vidaspinkevicius #ausramotuzaite

Welcome to episode 718 of Secrets of Organ Playing Podcast. This question was sent by Carl and she writes:"Hallo Vidas! My stretch goal is to be a church organist. I can't really play the piano right now, I have to learn that. I have no access to an organ. I am stretched for time. I guess this is pretty vanilla feedback. But that's pretty much it."You can support this channel by becoming a member here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO4K3_6QVJI_HlI5PCFQqtg/joinIf you like what I do, you can buy me some coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/organduoPayPal: https://PayPal.Me/VPinkeviciusWe support Ukraine: https://www.blue-yellow.lt/enMy Hauptwerk setup: https://www.organduo.lt/tools.htmlTotal Organist - the most comprehensive organ training program online: https://www.organduo.lt/total-organistSecrets of Organ Playing - When You Practice, Miracles Happen! https://organduo.ltListen to my organ playing on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0ckKPIvTWucoN3CZwGodCO?si=YWy7_0HqRvaZwBcovL-#secretsoforganplayingpodcast #vidaspinkevicius #ausramotuzaite

Welcome to episode 717 of Secrets of Organ Playing Podcast. This question was sent by Pamela and she writes:"I would be interested in tips on how to accompany plainsong chant. I know that many people do not like or approve of chant accompaniments but many USA churches use them. The organist often has to invent on the spot."You can support this channel by becoming a member here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO4K3_6QVJI_HlI5PCFQqtg/joinIf you like what I do, you can buy me some coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/organduoPayPal: https://PayPal.Me/VPinkeviciusWe support Ukraine: https://www.blue-yellow.lt/enMy Hauptwerk setup: https://www.organduo.lt/tools.htmlTotal Organist - the most comprehensive organ training program online: https://www.organduo.lt/total-organistSecrets of Organ Playing - When You Practice, Miracles Happen! https://organduo.ltListen to my organ playing on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0ckKPIvTWucoN3CZwGodCO?si=YWy7_0HqRvaZwBcovL-#secretsoforganplayingpodcast #vidaspinkevicius #ausramotuzaite

Let's start episode 716 of Secrets of Organ Playing Podcast. This question was sent by Ray, and he writes:“Hey VidasThanks for your tips. Here are my goals:- to increase my play from memory ability (given the fact that l am 71) and to perform two major piecesChallenges:- time is a challenge- correct fingering (still fumbling at times)- improve my pedal skillThanks again for your tips!RegardsRay” You can support this channel by becoming a member here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO4K3_6QVJI_HlI5PCFQqtg/join If you like what I do, you can buy me some coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/organduo PayPal: https://PayPal.Me/VPinkevicius We support Ukraine: https://www.blue-yellow.lt/en My Hauptwerk setup: https://www.organduo.lt/tools.html Total Organist - the most comprehensive organ training program online: https://www.organduo.lt/total-organist Secrets of Organ Playing - When You Practice, Miracles Happen! https://organduo.lt Listen to my organ playing on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0ckKPIvTWucoN3CZwGodCO?si=YWy7_0HqRvaZwBcovL-

Let's start episode 715 of Secrets of Organ Playing Podcast. This question was sent by Ben, and he writes:1. Goal: To play more complex pieces such as Bach D minor "Dorian" toccata and fugue fluently2.  Obstacle: Advanced age (76) although I did study organ at ages 15-17 and violin from age 9 and have a good knowledge of music theory.Fortunately now being semi-retired I have time to practice, so help to get back to where I was as a teenager and advance beyond that will be useful. Thanks! You can support this channel by becoming a member here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO4K3_6QVJI_HlI5PCFQqtg/join If you like what I do, you can buy me some coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/organduo PayPal: https://PayPal.Me/VPinkevicius We support Ukraine: https://www.blue-yellow.lt/en My Hauptwerk setup: https://www.organduo.lt/tools.html Total Organist - the most comprehensive organ training program online: https://www.organduo.lt/total-organist Secrets of Organ Playing - When You Practice, Miracles Happen! https://organduo.lt Listen to my organ playing on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0ckKPIvTWucoN3CZwGodCO?si=YWy7_0HqRvaZwBcovL- #secretsoforganplayingpodcast #organplaying #organfingering

Let's start episode 714 of Secrets of Organ Playing podcast.  This question was sent by Kathrin, and she writes: “When I first write fingerings in the score, partly it doesn't work anymore, when I play the piece faster. In some pieces it is necessary to play one or two or more notes in the first line in the left hand or vice versa. So both hands have to work together. I can only write fingerings for both hands together. How to study pieces with chords like in the French romantic for instance and with more than one note in every hand?Kind regards,Kathrin” You can support this channel by becoming a member here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO4K3_6QVJI_HlI5PCFQqtg/join If you like what I do, you can buy me some coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/organduo PayPal: https://PayPal.Me/VPinkevicius We support Ukraine: https://www.blue-yellow.lt/en My Hauptwerk setup: https://www.organduo.lt/tools.html Total Organist - the most comprehensive organ training program online: https://www.organduo.lt/total-organist Secrets of Organ Playing - When You Practice, Miracles Happen! https://organduo.lt Listen to my organ playing on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0ckKPIvTWucoN3CZwGodCO?si=YWy7_0HqRvaZwBcovL-

This question was sent by Jim, and he writes:I'm trying to think when, if ever, someone would want to use a 16' stop when playing on the manuals. It seems that practice would give a very thick and muddy sound to the part written for the manuals. Can you give an instance or example of when it would be appropriate to use a 16' stop for the manuals, or one of the manuals, please? I am just having trouble imagining what type of sound that would be. Thank you very much.  ~Jim This podcast is supported by Total Organist (https://www.organduo.lt/total-organist.html) - the most comprehensive organ training program online. It has hundreds of courses, coaching and practice materials for every area of organ playing, thousands of instructional videos and PDF's. You will NOT find more value anywhere else online... Total Organist helps you to master any piece, perfect your technique, develop your sight-reading skills, improvise or compose your own music and much much more… Sign up and begin your training today at organduo.lt (https://www.organduo.lt/) and click on Total Organist (https://www.organduo.lt/total-organist.html) . And of course, you will get the 1st month free too. You can cancel anytime. If you like our organ music, you can also support us on Buy Me a Coffee platform: Find out more at https://buymeacoffee.com/organduo

Let's start episode 712 of Secrets of Organ Playing Podcast. This question was sent by Jim, and he writes:“There is a topic that I, and probably every other church organist on here, would like for you to cover. And that is how to accompany the choir for the choral anthem from a piano score at the organ.It is a nightmare. Usually if there is a piano available, I will move to the piano to accompany the choral anthem at the piano, and I think the congregation and the choir and the Choir Director seem to prefer it. I know I prefer doing that, but sometimes there is no piano available.Thank you.A fan.Jim” This podcast is supported by Total Organist - the most comprehensive organ training program online. It has hundreds of courses, coaching and practice materials for every area of organ playing, thousands of instructional videos and PDF's. You will NOT find more value anywhere else online... Total Organist helps you to master any piece, perfect your technique, develop your sight-reading skills, improvise or compose your own music and much much more… Sign up and begin your training today at organduo.lt and click on Total Organist. And of course, you will get the 1st month free too. You can cancel anytime. If you like our organ music, you can also support us on Buy Me a Coffee platform: Find out more at https://buymeacoffee.com/organduo

Let's start episode 711 of Secrets of Organ Playing Podcast. This question was sent by Spencer, and he writes:Hello Sir,  Please do you have materials and videos on creating last stanza reharmonization for organ accompanying a choir singing unison with or without descant? This podcast is supported by Total Organist - the most comprehensive organ training program online.A: It has hundreds of courses, coaching and practice materials for every area of organ playing, thousands of instructional videos and PDF's. You will NOT find more value anywhere else online...V: Total Organist helps you to master any piece, perfect your technique, develop your sight-reading skills, and improvise or compose your own music and much much more…A: Sign up and begin your training today at organduo.lt and click on Total Organist. And of course, you will get the 1st month free too. You can cancel anytime.V: If you like our organ music, you can also support us on Buy Me a Coffee platform:A: Find out more at https://buymeacoffee.com/organduo

 This question was sent by Susanna, and she writes:“Vidas,Currently my goal is to become a reasonably competent and confident organ player in the small local church and the local church community.I like your idea of a “course” - a guide to how/ what to study to achieve this - I don't want to take exams - but with an exam course there is a syllabus to follow.Currently incorporating the pedals into my hymn playing and getting more confident with this seems a place to concentrate on.Lack of self belief holds me back.I am in my mid 60s- structured learning seems to be directed at young people.I have no musical background - learning about basic harmony seems quite inaccessible. I have tried some book learning related to music theory but I am not sure if I am on the right track.My sight reading skills are ok - but not memorizing - and I would like to have “Happy Birthday” and “God Save the King” at my fingertips - I think this is a skill a church organist might have.Best wishesSusanna” This podcast is supported by Total Organist - the most comprehensive organ training program online.It has hundreds of courses, coaching and practice materials for every area of organ playing, thousands of instructional videos and PDF's. You will NOT find more value anywhere else online...Total Organist helps you to master any piece, perfect your technique, develop your sight-reading skills, and improvise or compose your own music and much much more…Sign up and begin your training today at organduo.lt and click on Total Organist. And of course, you will get the 1st month free too. You can cancel anytime.If you like our organ music, you can also support us on Buy Me a Coffee platform:Find out more at https://buymeacoffee.com/organduo

Let's start episode 709 of Secrets of Organ Playing Podcast. This question was sent by Thinh, and Thinh writes​Hello Vidas,Just let you know that I'm new to the organ. However, I had 3+ years studying classical piano when I was young. I have been working on playing foot pedals for a few weeks (first lesson of Pedal Virtuoso Master Course and not sure if it is too hard for me). ...still have some difficulty coordinating playing both hands and both feet. However, I started making some progress by following your instructions of separating practice (right hand, left hand, right+left, right+pedal and left+pedal - I pay more attention on left hand and pedal). I also work on the easy pieces such as Lemmens Methode. You can support this channel by becoming a member here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO4K3_6QVJI_HlI5PCFQqtg/join If you like what I do, you can buy me some coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/organduo PayPal: https://PayPal.Me/VPinkevicius We support Ukraine: https://www.blue-yellow.lt/en My Hauptwerk setup: https://www.organduo.lt/tools.html Total Organist - the most comprehensive organ training program online: https://www.organduo.lt/total-organist Secrets of Organ Playing - When You Practice, Miracles Happen! https://organduo.lt Listen to my organ playing on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0ckKPIvTWucoN3CZwGodCO?si=YWy7_0HqRvaZwBcovL-RKg

Let's start episode 707 of Secrets of Organ Playing Podcast. This question was sent by Fanie.  And she writes: Dear Vidas, I am an adult beginner, so I have different needs.1. What is your dream for organ playing? To play chorales in the church and play music which I love, like Bach, Buxtehude, Bohm, Franck, Mendelssohn, Guilmant, Vierne, Widor etc.2. What are 3 most important things that are holding you back from realizing your dream? I am not sure. Sometimes I am unsure if I actually get something right. Most recently, I started with a piece which was marked to be played articulated legato, and I had no idea what it was about. Eventually I got the info on your site.As of tomorrow, I will start with lessons, so it should be a bit easier.Regards, Fanie

 Let's start episode 708 of Secrets of Organ Playing Podcast. This question was sent by Dawn, and she writes:“Hi Vidas,I'm finding your advice very helpful. I've started to approach my pieces like my scales, ‘from memory' and I'm definitely making progress. I'm recognising finger patterns are better too, which I normally don't. So thank you for your advice on memorisation.In answer to your questions:My dream is to play competently and confidently. Perhaps in the future to reach Grade 8 standard if I'm ever good enough.The 3 things holding me back:1. Poor fingering.2. Poor rhythm.3. Slow speed.Thanks again for your advice and support. It's much appreciated.Dawn”

Let's start episode 706 of Secrets of Organ Playing Podcast. Today we decided to discuss a little bit about our last summer organ trips. So we hope you will enjoy our conversation about all the recitals that we played in various countries.

This question was sent by Matthew, and he writes:“Hello Vidas & Ausra,Thank you for all that you are doing to encourage and coach organists!1. What is your dream for organ playing?Be able to accompany any song without losing the mood of the song. Rich bass and appropriate chords.2. What are 3 most important things that are holding you back from realizing your dream?a. Fingeringb. Unable to play soprano and alto in the right hand simultaneously (bass and tenor in the left hand simultaneously)c. Knowledge of chordsBest regards,Mathew”

This question was sent by Leo, and he writes:Good morning,  Which of your studies do you recommend for learning repertoire within a short period of time?Thanks,  Leo

This question was sent by Pamela, and she has a dream to be the best organist that she can be. And holding her back is playing anxiety, physical stamina, and lack of concentration.

This question was sent by Leo, and he writes Good evening, Thanks so much for the fine work that you and your staff render. I am currently moving into a new position as organist for the Second Presbyterian Church here in Memphis. I am ecstatic about this amazing opportunity. Are there any secrets or nuggets of wisdom as it pertains to learning difficult pieces quickly. Please advise or share what to purchase on your website. Thank you Leo

This question was sent by Richard, and he writes: “Hey Vidas, I just watched your video of 4 movements your Nun Danket Suite - VERY nice. Question: how do the tablets with the music score know when to switch as they do? Thanks! Richard”

This question was sent by Pedro, and he writes: 1. My dream is to improve my improvisation techniques. I think this goes through more music analysis, and trying to write down small pieces. I would also like to be more confident when choosing the appropriate registration. And finally I would like to change my finger touch, that is still one of a trained pianist. 2. Things that hold me to reach that goal is : Time to play more often and access to an organ. Thank you, Pedro

This question was sent by Rien Schalkwijk, our friend from YouTube, and he wants to know how Rorate caeli, ornamented chorale prelude by Jeanne Demessieux is constructed.

This question was sent by Rebekah, and she writes: 1) My dream is to be able to sight-read hymns well enough that a last minute change to a hymn in a church service doesn't worry me. 2) What's holding me back is time - I just started playing the organ a little less than 3 months ago, and I can only get to the church to practice 3 days a week. I do practice on my piano at home on the other days. Rebekah”

Today, we'd like to talk about how to teach in an organ studio where one student is playing with one finger only, and another rather well.

Today, I would like to talk about what to do when you come to practice and there is a funeral in the church. It has happened to us many times before. We had our Unda Maris Studio rehearsal planned, but before that, we were going to record some organ music on our church organ. But before entering the church, we noticed widely opened doors which means something is going on. And sure enough, in one of the chapels, there was a funeral being prepared.

Today, we'd like to talk a little bit about how and why Total Organist Community has migrated from Basecamp to Discord.

This question was sent by Ed, he is one of our Total Organist students and he writes: You asked me to get back to you about what I'm practicing, and I had to wait a few days to figure out how to explain this. As I mentioned in my prior email I have a masters degree in organ performance from many years ago, and then let it lapse for several decades. Now that I'm retired I'm trying to make the magic happen again, and it's been challenging to figure out how to put the pieces back together. My technique has really slipped a good bit, most of my repertoire is rusty, and if I'm not careful I can get pretty discouraged. One thing that has helped me is that I put together the attached spreadsheet. I took several days to go through all the music in the boxes to try to remember what I had learned already. I even found pieces that clearly I had played because my handwriting is all over the paper, yet I could not remember anything about the piece. I put all this information into a spreadsheet to help me understand my priorities and the current state of each of the pieces I was working on. It's been very helpful to keep my focus to resurrect all of the things I've learned already well while still branching into some new material. I'm in a good daily routine now. I spend about 30 minutes split between Hanon and the Davis textbook pedal exercises to get my dexterity back, and then I look through this repertoire list and pick some things that I'm interested in moving up on the current status list. I get pretty tired by mid afternoon, so I save the evening for watching YouTube videos from your site. I also got a copy of the New Oxford Organ Method which I find delightful. One chapter a day seems to be good to remind me of what I used to know. Keep up the great work. Every hour you put into organization is going to have tremendous benefits and increase the availability and respect for what you've done. Thanks so much. Take care, Ed

Welcome to Secrets of Organ Playing Podcast #693! Today's guest is harpsichordist Alina Rotaru. Alina studied piano and choral conducting at the music academy in her hometown of Bucharest. After moving to Germany, she studied harpsichord with Siegbert Rampe and Wolfgang Kostujak at the Folkwang University of the Arts Essen, with Bob van Asperen at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam, and with Carsten Lohff and Detlef Bratschke at the University of the Arts Bremen. She is an active soloist and ensemble player, and also in charge of various orchestral, opera, and sacred music projects of the German Early and Late Baroque as an artistic director. As a soloist, she has performed across most of Europe, as well as in Japan, South America and USA. She teaches at the University of the Arts in Bremen. Her solo recordings of harpsichord works by JP Sweelinck, JJ Froberger, and English virginalists have earned excellent reviews in the music press and among their peers. Together with viol player Darius Stabinskas, Alina is the co-founder of the ensemble MORGAINE, which focuses on the music of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. In this conversation, we talk about her love for early music, playing harpsichord and Sigismundus Lauxmin International Harpsichord Contest which she organised the 2nd time this year. Relevant links: https://alinarotarumusic.wordpress.com http://www.bmfestival.lt http://www.bmfestival.lt/bmf2022/en/contest.html​ http://fontesmusicae.pl/notes-editions-c-series/​ http://fontesmusicae.pl/szelest-en/​

This question was sent by Martin, and his response is to the question, “What are his goals in organ playing in the next 3-6 months?” So he writes: “Improving my pedaling technique, independence of hands and feet”.

This question was sent by Steven, and he writes: “Vidas, Here are my responses to your questions. 1. What is your dream for organ playing? My dream is to improve my playing with the most effective way to practice and get the most out of my practice time. 2. What are 3 most important things that are holding you back from realising your dream? A. Effective practice and getting the most out of practice time. B. Better registrations for the music C. Being more confident in my playing Currently practicing Widor's Toccata from his 5th organ symphony and Vierne's Finale from 1st symphony and Carillon de Westminster. And these works of J.S. Bach: Toccata and Fugue in d minor BWV 565 Fugue in D BWV 532a Praeludium and Fugue in d minor BWV 549a The Gigue Fugue, BWV 577. Thank you for all you two do in assisting others to improve their playing skills at the organ. Steven”

This question was sent by Andrew, and he writes Dear Vidas, My answers to your recent questions: 1. My dream is to be able to play the organ confidently in the liturgy and perhaps in recitals occasionally. 2. The 3 most important things holding me back from this are: - Poor sense of timing and rhythm - Lack of focus and concentration in practicing - My legs are both slightly twisted outwards, which makes some pedaling uncomfortable (especially around the middle of the pedalboard; I cannot place my knees close together without great effort) Nonetheless, I am finding Total Organist a very useful resource and community. I find your daily emails especially helpful. My best wishes to you and Ausra from England, Andrew

This question was sent by Rita, and she writes: I am learning a lot from your episodes. I am a trained pianist but also play organ. The main problem with being an organist is that you usually can't practice at home because most people don't own organs and even so...probably not a pipe organ! There are many true organists that utilize all the stops and use both feet seamlessly. Because I now play on 4 different organs… I want to give the listeners/participants the best experience. My suggestion is to focus on the easiest registrations… easiest way of just knowing how to prepare for playing the quickest and easiest way. Practice makes perfect so my goal is to gain access to my 4 churches and devote practice time to each organ. Thank you again for your helpful lessons! Find out more at organduo.lt!

This question was sent by Odubiyi, and he writes: “My dreams for the Organ is to be a master on the Organ. Things holding me back: light, faulty pedal notes, spending too much time without getting much progress. Art of performance” Find out more at https://organduo.lt

This question was sent by Robin, and she writes: Hello, I am a singer first and a pianist second. . . and an organist very much third! I was asked last September to serve as a short-term substitute pianist for a church whose organist had fallen and injured herself. The piano playing was easily accomplished with my existing skills. After a short time, the organist decided that it was time to retire, and the organist job became available permanently, and it was offered to me. I made it clear that I did not play the organ but that I was willing to learn, and the church was willing to accept me on that basis. The church's choir had not sung for 22 months because of COVID, and so they had lost their choir director as well. I offered to cover both positions, as is done in many churches. So as of January, I became the Director of Music, a position I had never expected to hold. I'm taking organ lessons as fast as I can with the best organist in town, and I am playing the organ every Sunday and working hard to choose fine, liturgically appropriate music that is manageable at my novice level. All of that is a long way of saying that there is way more to playing the organ than I, as a pianist, ever imagined. I had thought it would mainly be a matter of learning about the stops and learning to play the pedals, and the manuals would be no problem. I had no prior understanding of the very different fingering technique required for the organ. So I am doing my best with my limited abilities to play music that contributes to the worship services, that interests and uplifts the congregation, and that is musically of a high quality. The three main obstacles I am working to overcome in order to do that are 1) learning to play the pedals, 2) learning about registrations and 3) learning about proper fingering technique. I realize that that pretty much covers most everything about playing the organ, but you asked for the three main things with which I need help! I need more time and more practice and more instruction on all of these aspects in order to play at the level to which I aspire. Thank you. ~Robin

This question was sent by Gena, and she is our Total Organist community member. She has sent me her answer to the question what is her dream in organ playing for the next three months and also what are some of her challenges. So she writes: “Thank you! 1. Full public organ recital on fine instrument here in FL. Program pieces have been gradually prepared over several years. 2. Currently putting all keyboard efforts into the next full piano recital Shall We Dance. Have a professional teacher/coach weekly. Can't do both goals at once due to poor health, lack of time and organ teacher/coach. Still singing in multiple choirs. Gena Florida and Colorado USA”

This question was sent by Dimi, and he writes about his dreams and the challenges that he is facing. So: “1. I dream to play at my future organ romantic and baroque pieces, but not only that. 2. I plan to buy a used electronic organ (Ahlborn DS series, 2 manual+pedal) and I haven't found the owner manual and the service manual online, I looked on some forums and sent emails to Ahlborn website, but so far no answer. The price is €250. I can (barely) afford it, it is about 39% of my total net income, despite that I am optimistic. I will use my Edirol FA-66 interface and GrandOrgue to test it.”

This question was sent by Scott, and he writes My dream is to be able to play well enough that what I'm playing is recognizable. You see, I was once a church organist for 20+ years, until I had my first stroke on January 1, 1999. Two more strokes followed in 2013, so I have had 2 strokes paralyzing my dominant right side and 1 stroke weakening my left side and making it greatly uncoordinated. Now I play for physical therapy, but I can't find any easy music for my left hand and left foot alone! So he writes further: 1. Finding music 2. Adapting existing music 3. Maintaining correct technique while I learn how to play in a new way, and being able to recognize that a given piece is not meant for me to play but to be satisfied with just listening to it being played by another.

This question was sent by Martin, and he writes Dear Vidas, I really enjoy receiving your emails and watching your Youtube channel. From early childhood, I always admired organ music and organists. In church, I would always go up to watch how the organ was played. I grew up in Bratislava, Slovakia, and listening to the organ in the big Lutheran church was quite an experience (4 manual, 62 stops). It was always my dream to play it. Alas, my life took a different path and I now live in Canada. Last year, being stuck at home due to the COVID pandemic, I discovered the Hauptwerk virtual pipe organ. I built myself a 3-manual console + 25 pedal and started to learn. Your Youtube channel and those of other expert organists are an enormous help and inspiration, and I try to follow your tutorial steps as much as possible. One thing I might like your advice on is the following: since organ playing is my hobby, I can only devote maybe an hour a day to practice (sometimes even less). What would be the best way to use this time? Practice a little bit of everything every day (scales + compositions)? Or do scales (mainly pedals) one day, and composition(s) another? Many thanks and best wishes Martin

This question was sent by Rolf, and he writes his answer to my question, What is his dream in organ playing right now, and also what are some obstacles in reaching this dream? So, 1. Playing Buxtehude and Bach reasonably well and being able to improvise simple but beautiful melodies for the church service. 2. Earlier there were three things: time, money and lack of knowledge. Since I am retired two things: money and lack of knowledge. I can study well on my own and there are plenty beautiful instruments in my house and churches around me. Greetings Rolf

This question was sent by Rolf, and he writes: “Hi Vidas Very good wishes for you both! I want to tell you that I am studying this wonderful Praeludium in C from JS Bach, using your tips. Especially the tip cutting the piece in 4 bars and not making any mistake by playing slower, it's working! In fact it goes faster and it's giving me a lot of pleasure, thank you very much!! I will support your beautiful work of course. Greetings from Groningen Rolf”

This question was sent by Miguel, and he is in our Total Organist community plus he takes private lessons with me, and one time he wrote this message: “My back was quite painful, but now I'm fully recovered and practicing again. Part of the problem was sitting for too long, apart from the 8 hours a day I sit for my computer work at the bank. I sit an hour or two on a bench with no back support. The physio also told me that the movements of the legs on the pedals have a toll on the spine. ​So, I've been reintroducing walking that I haven't done for quite a while and also using my height adjustable desk for standing as well as sitting, at least during working hours. Did you have problems with your back due to organ playing, or do you know other people that had the same problem?”

This question was sent by Hubertus, and he writes, Hello Ausra, Heard your demo of the Alessandria organ with interest. Thank you for hearing you play on that. However, I am 75 and do not yet have enough experience to distinguish what those sounds for registrations entail, because I only started playing about 13 years ago, the total overview is missing. I also bought that organ this year, but I don't know what registrations you played the music with. Is it possible to use the "Simple" screen for a next demonstration instead of the Console, so that it is possible to follow your choice of registrations, in order to be able to try them out by myself, because it sounded very nice, but my knowledge falls short. Hope you can/will comply with my request. Thanks for listening to me. Best regards. Hubertus