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Secrets of Organ Playing Podcast

Secrets of Organ Playing Podcast

By Secrets of Organ Playing

Conversations about all things organ playing. Dr. Vidas Pinkevicius and Dr. Ausra Motuzaite-Pinkeviciene talk about organ practice, technique, registration, performance, improvisation, harmony, music theory and other aspects which make up Total Organist.
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Currently playing episode

SOPP688: 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!

Secrets of Organ Playing PodcastAug 10, 2022

00:00
11:28
SOPP708: I’ve started to approach my organ pieces like my scales, ‘from memory’ and I’m definitely making progress

SOPP708: I’ve started to approach my organ pieces like my scales, ‘from memory’ and I’m definitely making progress

 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”

Mar 13, 202415:16
SOPP706: About our summer organ trips to Poland, Denmark, Ukraine and Latvia

SOPP706: About our summer organ trips to Poland, Denmark, Ukraine and Latvia

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.

Aug 30, 202346:23
SOPP705: I'd like to be able to accompany any song without losing the mood of the song

SOPP705: I'd like to be able to accompany any song without losing the mood of the song

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. Fingering
b. Unable to play soprano and alto in the right hand simultaneously (bass and tenor in the left hand simultaneously)
c. Knowledge of chords
Best regards,
Mathew”

May 10, 202316:40
SOPP704: Which of your studies do you recommend for learning repertoire within a short period of time?

SOPP704: Which of your studies do you recommend for learning repertoire within a short period of time?

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

May 03, 202314:37
SOPP703: I want to become the best organist that I can be. Things holding me back are playing anxiety, physical stamina, and lack of concentration.

SOPP703: I want to become the best organist that I can be. Things holding me back are playing anxiety, physical stamina, and lack of concentration.

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.

Mar 08, 202312:08
SOPP702: Are there any secrets or nuggets of wisdom as it pertains to learning difficult pieces quickly?

SOPP702: Are there any secrets or nuggets of wisdom as it pertains to learning difficult pieces quickly?

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

Mar 01, 202308:50
SOPP701: How do two tablets with the music score know when to switch as they do when you turn pages?
Feb 22, 202314:15
SOPP700: My dream is to improve my improvisation techniques

SOPP700: My dream is to improve my improvisation techniques

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

Feb 02, 202317:21
SOPP699: How Rorate caeli, ornamented chorale prelude by Jeanne Demessieux is constructed?

SOPP699: How Rorate caeli, ornamented chorale prelude by Jeanne Demessieux is constructed?

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.

Jan 25, 202311:25
SOPP698: 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

SOPP698: 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

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”

Jan 18, 202310:07
SOPP697: How to Teach in an Organ Studio Where One Student is Playing With One Finger Only and Another - Rather Well

SOPP697: How to Teach in an Organ Studio Where One Student is Playing With One Finger Only and Another - Rather Well

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.

Nov 16, 202213:06
SOPP696: What to do when you come to practice and there is a funeral in the church?

SOPP696: What to do when you come to practice and there is a funeral in the church?

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.

Nov 02, 202212:52
SOPP695: Total Organist Community Migrated from Basecamp to Discord
Oct 05, 202214:32
SOPP694: 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

SOPP694: 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

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

Sep 23, 202217:09
SOPP693: Alina Rotaru on Early Music, Playing Harpsichord and Sigismundus Lauxmin International Harpsichord Contest

SOPP693: Alina Rotaru on Early Music, Playing Harpsichord and Sigismundus Lauxmin International Harpsichord Contest

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/​

Sep 21, 202258:30
SOPP689: I want to improve my organ pedal technique

SOPP689: I want to improve my organ pedal technique

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”. 

Sep 07, 202209:13
SOPP687: My dream is to improve my playing with the most effective way to practice and get the most out of my practice time
Aug 24, 202212:35
SOPP690: My dream is to be able to play the organ confidently in the liturgy and perhaps in recitals occasionally

SOPP690: My dream is to be able to play the organ confidently in the liturgy and perhaps in recitals occasionally

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

Aug 17, 202214:42
SOPP688: 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!
Aug 10, 202211:28
SOPP685: I'm spending too much time without getting much progress
Aug 03, 202212:25
SOPP686: "As of January, I became the Director of Music, a position I had never expected to hold"

SOPP686: "As of January, I became the Director of Music, a position I had never expected to hold"

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

Jun 22, 202216:06
SOPP683: I want to play a full public organ recital on a fine instrument

SOPP683: I want to play a full public organ recital on a fine instrument

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”

May 25, 202214:36
SOPP681: I plan to buy a used electronic organ

SOPP681: I plan to buy a used electronic organ

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.”

May 11, 202213:46
SOPP684: My dream is to be able to play well enough that what I'm playing is recognisable

SOPP684: My dream is to be able to play well enough that what I'm playing is recognisable

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.

May 04, 202210:58
SOPP682: Since organ playing is my hobby, I can only devote maybe an hour a day to practice (sometimes even less)

SOPP682: Since organ playing is my hobby, I can only devote maybe an hour a day to practice (sometimes even less)

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

Apr 27, 202216:00
SOPP680: My dream is to play Buxtehude and Bach reasonably well and to be able to improvise simple but beautiful melodies for the church service

SOPP680: My dream is to play Buxtehude and Bach reasonably well and to be able to improvise simple but beautiful melodies for the church service

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

Apr 20, 202214:20
SOPP679: "I want to tell you that I am studying this wonderful Praeludium in C from JS Bach, using your tips"

SOPP679: "I want to tell you that I am studying this wonderful Praeludium in C from JS Bach, using your tips"

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”

Apr 13, 202209:57
SOPP673: I am almost 72 years old and have not played for nearly 30 years

SOPP673: I am almost 72 years old and have not played for nearly 30 years

This question was sent by Louise, and she answers my questions of what is her dream in organ playing, and what is holding her back from achieving that dream. So she writes:

“1) My dream is to be able to play well enough that people would enjoy and be blessed by my playing.
2) What is holding me back? A) my age. I am almost 72 yrs old and have not played for nearly 30 yrs; B) I do not have weekly lessons; only when my teacher has time. He is a college professor. I cannot afford tuition. C) brain fog due to a serious illness 6 yrs ago and COVID last year.

On the positive side: the Lord provided an organ for me to have at home. 2 manuals; full pedalboard; FREE!! I was a piano major in college and taught piano for 28 years; I love to practice.

Thank you so much for your online lessons. I have printed them out so I can better focus on correct practice habits.”

Apr 06, 202210:44
SOPP677: Did you have problems with your back due to organ playing, or do you know other people that had the same problem?

SOPP677: 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 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?”

Mar 30, 202210:10
SOPP678: I also bought that organ this year but I don't know what registrations you played the music with

SOPP678: I also bought that organ this year but I don't know what registrations you played the music with

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

Mar 23, 202213:32
SOPP675: I want to play easier pieces well... rather than difficult pieces badly!

SOPP675: I want to play easier pieces well... rather than difficult pieces badly!

This question was sent by Stephen, and he writes:

“I love
the Zipoli Pastorale...!!! Thank you... Zipoli is one of my favorite early Baroque composers!”

Vidas: I wrote to him, “Thanks Stephen! What other composers do you like?” And Stephen writes: “In a more contemporary "vein"  I am fond of Dale Wood's music.  There are passages in his work that require a legato technique especially with chords...Sometimes I am at a loss as to how best to play them...finger substitution..but which is best..that sort of challenge.

In answer to your question, what composers do I like ....Of course BACH, esp some of the Chorale Preludes.  and I intensely care for the Eight Short Preludes and Fugues attributed to Bach but maybe not ?? I think his pupil Krebs may have had a hand in composing these???  I cannot prove that of course. but I love these pieces and I have always played them from the Wayne Leupold Edition...Sandra Soderland, editor.  I prefer to follow her revelations as to style and registrations etc...all toes pedal!!!!   I love them and find they never bore me....I studied them formally with Dr. Laura Ellis. Always from the Soderland Ed.!  I never learned them any other way.   so I was lucky :) Thank you and your wife/life partner for all you do to extend education to all who seek ....”

Vidas: And I wrote to him again, “Thanks Stephen! Yes, Wayne Leupold publishes great educational material. Current scholarship thinks these short preludes and fugues might have indeed been written by Krebs but there is no proof. So it's safe to say they were written by the Bach Circle.

You mentioned finger substitution being a challenge. It's just a matter of time spent and experience. Just continue to play easier pieces and little by little you can master more difficult ones as well. Fingers have muscle memory. And something more. They start to sense the best patterns after a while.

The first 20 years are difficult and then it's easy.”

Vidas: Stephen wrote back to me: “I just found a piece I had enjoyed and practiced several years ago...would like to share it with you ...I enjoy and care a lot for Marcel Dupre's work....This is one of the Seventy Nine Chorales Op. 28, he wrote for teaching purposes...I am guessing that you know them:  XXVIII The Son of God is Come....very short and beautiful...  And I wanted to share my a guiding principle in my organ study  which I think is in agreement with yours: "It is only through playing a lot of easier pieces and being able to consolidate our progress at a manageable standard that we can go on to greater things"  I want to play easier pieces well ..rather than difficult pieces badly! I find the ZIpoli can present some challenges… having the fingering at hand thanks to you...makes the task of learning it so much easier.  Dupre marked all the fingering and pedaling in the Chorales.   Happy Holidays:  All of them!!!”

Mar 16, 202216:01
SOPP676: My goal is to be able to play a wide selection of easy to moderate standard organ pieces suitable for service use.

SOPP676: My goal is to be able to play a wide selection of easy to moderate standard organ pieces suitable for service use.

This question was sent by Nick, and he answers my question, “What is your dream in organ playing in the next 3-6 months, and what are some challenges along the way?”  So he writes,

1. To be able to play a wide selection of easy to moderate standard organ pieces suitable for service use.

V:  and challenges would be

2. Sight reading, sight reading and sight reading!

Feb 16, 202213:05
SOPP674: There is a huge part of me who would love to play again in public and there is the other part of me trying to be sensible, logical, and practical.

SOPP674: There is a huge part of me who would love to play again in public and there is the other part of me trying to be sensible, logical, and practical.

This question was sent by Maureen, and she writes,

I have been working on Christmas carols.  There is a Catholic church 26 miles from my hometown needing an organist. I haven't played in public for a long time. Seeing this advert has given me renewed vigour to play with a definite purpose.

There is a huge part of me who would love to play again in public and there is the other part of me trying to be sensible, logical, and practical. I would need daily access to the organ and the energy to meet the challenge.

I don't drive; I haven't played in years; I don't know whether to let the priest know I can play a church organ with time to familiarise myself with it.  What would you do?

Feb 09, 202212:16
SOPP672: I’ve noticed that playing from a tablet, the pages seem to turn by themselves

SOPP672: I’ve noticed that playing from a tablet, the pages seem to turn by themselves

This question was sent by Gerrit, or, I don’t know how to pronounce it.  If he’s Dutch, maybe “Herrit.”  I would appreciate people maybe giving us feedback how to pronounce their names, right?  Would be nice.  So Gerrit writes:

I’ve watched and listened to your performance of
Duetto, Op. 156 No. 6 of Joseph Rheinberger. Thank you for that. It sounds beautiful.

I have a question, maybe somewhat off topic, but I’ve noticed that playing from a tablet, the pages seem to turn by themselves. For example at 1:04. How did you do that? I am working with MobileSheets with the auto-scroll function, but your method is better.
Did you turn the pages by yourself or was it another person?
Hope that you can clarify this mystery for me.

Feb 02, 202213:58
SOPP671: I’m 75, and do know for myself, the very high difficulty of remembering my daily study already the next day.

SOPP671: I’m 75, and do know for myself, the very high difficulty of remembering my daily study already the next day.

This question was sent by Hubertus, and he writes:

“Hello Vidas and Ausra,
As for getting informed with your very-very good advice etc. I admire your setup, and do respond to your questions as a moral obligation.
As you probably remember from the last mail exchange, I’m 75, and do know for myself, the Very high difficulty of remembering my daily study already the next day.
13 years ago I started from scratch in music and organ play.
I generally get only 1 to maybe max. Sometimes 2 hrs time to practice a day, some days even less, for all kinds of reasons, concentration is a hot issue in this all.
So, on the moment I’m studied in this past holiday season the BWV 721, and after 2 months now I’m able to play the piece as tempi gives, and still make usual remembrance mistakes, and in between I TRY to replay several pieces I studied recently before, with lots of difficulties in reading.
Again, I still like to play and do, especially this Bach piece.
So to answer your nr 1;
My dream WAS, 12 years ago, to play beautiful easy pieces of baroque music etc., Nevertheless, to my feelings and due to my former remarks, this goal is not really to achieve anymore, most probably due to organ play starting age around 62, and present bad possibility to remember the study even of the day before properly, and maybe I have to study twice as much, but I cannot bring that up, sorry.
Answer Nr 2,
as mentioned = 1 – Concentration special in reading, 2 - Maybe not enough daily practice time, with coming wintertime I expect/hope to find more time, 3 – Impatience in having results.
Very much Thanks again for your lessons in practicing setup.
Hope this helps in your request.
All Best regards to both of you,
Hubertus”

Jan 26, 202211:14
SOPP670: 10 Years of Secrets of Organ Playing

SOPP670: 10 Years of Secrets of Organ Playing

This episode is very special, because this year we celebrate 10 years of “Secrets of Organ Playing” activities.

Jan 05, 202229:02
SOPP669: A few years ago, I bought a roll-up piano hoping that it would provide a means for me to practice on my airline trips

SOPP669: A few years ago, I bought a roll-up piano hoping that it would provide a means for me to practice on my airline trips

This question was sent by Chad, and he writes,

Hi Vidas,

A few years ago, I bought a roll-up piano hoping that it would provide a means for me to practice on my airline trips. I desperately wanted to like it. But I HATED it! There was no tactile feel… No way to tell one key from the other. And the contacts didn’t work very well, so it was difficult to play the notes without tapping them pretty hard.

But maybe there has been progress in their construction? Which one did you buy? You must be somewhat pleased with it if you can get it to work well enough to make videos!

Nov 17, 202111:55
SOPP668: I would like to master a variety of organ music to be able to give a performance

SOPP668: I would like to master a variety of organ music to be able to give a performance

This question was sent by Mike, and he writes:

“I would like to master a variety of organ music to be able to give a performance.

The most important hurdles to overcome are:

  1. Being able to work on a consistent fingering to make passages flow smoothly
  2. Interpretation of music, registration,
  3. Developing and knowing how to make a piece artistically “my own” instead of just playing notes.

Many of your podcasts and notes are extremely helpful. Thank you for providing them.”

Nov 10, 202116:04
SOPP664: A lot of times, the instrument will teach you everything you need to know

SOPP664: A lot of times, the instrument will teach you everything you need to know

We have to take this saying with a grain of salt, because a lot of people today play at home with some kind of electronic instruments or virtual instruments, and in virtual instruments, the sound might be quite realistic, but the touch might be plastic. And it’s quite different from tracker touch in a real pipe organ situation. People might not necessarily discover on their own when they play their home organs.

Oct 06, 202110:57
SOPP666: Can you please clarify when using a thumb on black notes is or is not proper fingering”

SOPP666: Can you please clarify when using a thumb on black notes is or is not proper fingering”

This question was sent by Bob, and he writes:

“I have read in several places that using the thumb on the black notes is kind of frowned upon. The "Organ Playing Master Course" routinely calls for the thumb on a black note, can you please clarify when it is or is not proper fingering.”

Sep 29, 202106:49
SOPP667: I'm an advanced organist, but in all my years of studying and playing, none of my teachers has ever taught pedal scales or arpeggios

SOPP667: I'm an advanced organist, but in all my years of studying and playing, none of my teachers has ever taught pedal scales or arpeggios

This question was sent by Justin, and he writes,

Hello,

I am currently subscribed to the Pedal Virtuoso Course. My materials for the week usually arrive on Wednesdays around 11:30 am local time, but for some reason, I didn't receive my materials for Week 5 (not in either my inbox or my spam folder). Could you arrange to have it sent?

I've been enjoying the course. I'm an advanced organist, but in all my years of studying and playing, none of my teachers has ever taught pedal scales or arpeggios. So I'm grateful that this material is filling in that gap!

Thanks, and all the best,  Justin

Sep 22, 202113:46
SOPP663: My ultimate dream in regard to organ playing would be to gain the technical facility and coordination necessary to perform the masterworks of the Baroque repertoire

SOPP663: My ultimate dream in regard to organ playing would be to gain the technical facility and coordination necessary to perform the masterworks of the Baroque repertoire

This question was sent by Daniel, and he writes,

Hello Vidas,
My ultimate dream in regard to organ playing would be to gain the technical facility and coordination necessary to perform the masterworks of the Baroque repertoire (e.g., BWV 582, HWV 432, the entirety of BWV 1080).
Beyond that would be to gain the ability to improvise/think contrapuntally.
The three areas that are impeding these goals would be detailed as:

  • Development & understanding of physical technique/coordination.I come from a piano/composition background, and have a well-developed hand technique, but encounter difficulty cultivating the coordination between limbs, while maintaining a balanced position. I have also studied the literature available regarding coordinate technique, such as the writings of Abby Whiteside and the work of Dorothy Taubman/Edna Golandsky, and have been trying to apply these principles to organ technique, which has been a process of  gradual integration. There are other methods of body re-education such as Feldenkrais or Alexander Technique, which may indirectly facilitate techniques that may be worth studying as well.
  • Audiation:I am also very interested in the concept of audiation, aural skills, or "mental hearing" and have studied the available literature as well (partimenti, thoroughbass, the pedagogy of Nadia Boulanger). The concept of understanding the music at a deeper level and eventually being able to "think contrapuntally" must certainly translate into greater musical capabilities. I am still experimenting with and researching different methods to cultivate this ability. Sight singing appears to be a great adjunct to this skill. There are those who can purportedly just read the sheet music and hear it in their head without the aid of an external instrument as well.
  • Fingering principles/Sight Reading:Prior to beginning organ, I have achieved a level of proficiency on the piano, and the fingering principles do not intuitively apply to the organ repertoire. This in turn hinders my ability to sight read. I am new to the repertoire, but am still trying to discern basic principles for good fingering choices.

I can expound on any of the items listed, if further detail if needed.
Thank you again and best regards,
~Daniel

Sep 15, 202112:24
SOPP665: Does articulate legato apply to all keyboards or just organs?

SOPP665: Does articulate legato apply to all keyboards or just organs?

This question was sent by Bob, and he writes,

I was just wondering if articulate legato applies to all keyboards or just organs?

Sep 08, 202112:17
SOPP662: Who's the composer of that fantastic G major piece?

SOPP662: Who's the composer of that fantastic G major piece?

This question was sent by  Irineo, and he writes:

“Hello there, dear maestro.
Thank you for your latest SOPP about Unda Maris. I really enjoyed it. But I have a question: who's the composer of that fantastic G-Major piece you played from 21:00 until 23:17? It sounds early baroque to me, but I can't really say whether it's Bach. And what an AWESOME Bombarde 16' does that organ feature! Where is it located? Sounds just as beautiful as that Jacek Siedlar instrument where Maestra Motuzaite also played a recital for which I congratulated her a while ago, if you recall. Keep rewarding us with those great treasures, maestro. Say hello to Maestra Motuzaite for me, will you?
Very truly yours,
Irineo.”

Sep 01, 202109:05
SOPP660: I've been struggling with mastering Part I of Trio Sonata No. 4 by J.S. Bach. For some reason it's harder to do than I imagined it would be.
Jul 21, 202112:22
SOPP658: Now I can play with both feet to both edges of the pedals, even with my heels. How did I play before?

SOPP658: Now I can play with both feet to both edges of the pedals, even with my heels. How did I play before?

This question was sent by Manfred, and he writes:

“Hello Vidas,
I was not a novice on the pedal, since I played the church organ for a couple of years. When I started to look into nicer and more demanding pieces for organ, I felt I need a better technique at least for playing scales. Fortunately I found your Course in the internet, signed up and practiced the lessons every day over 12 weeks.
It is amazing: My feet find the right keys without looking. Now I can play with both feet to both edges of the pedals, even with my heels. How did I play before?
I tried to play an new piece. It is amazing how easy my feet play the notes almost automatically.
Thank you very much!
Manfred.”

Manfred is talking about my Pedal Virtuoso Master Course:

https://secrets-of-organ-playing.myshopify.com/products/pedal-virtuoso-master-course?_pos=1&_sid=b1b20c5b1&_ss=r

Jul 21, 202111:41
SOPP656: I need to practice how to find any pedal without looking at the pedalboard

SOPP656: I need to practice how to find any pedal without looking at the pedalboard

This question was sent by Louis, and he writes:

“Hello friends: I have read all about your
Pedal Virtuoso Master Course.
I would like to answer one important question for me.
I have seen that there are many scales and arpeggios.
I think that this is very good but I need to practice how to find any pedal without looking at the pedalboard. Have you got any special technique for this? Teachers in Spain use to say the same as some of your teachers: there isn't any technique, you only have to repeat many times while looking at the pedalboard and your brain will memorize the movements.
I think that is the problem. I want to find any pedal, any interval... without looking at the pedalboard and with a technique.
Please, tell me if you explain this in your course.
Thank you very much.
I hope to find what I need in your courses.
Regards,

Luis”

Jul 14, 202111:21
SOPP654: Last week I was struggling to record Trio Sonata No. 1 in Eb Major, BWV 525 by J.S. Bach

SOPP654: Last week I was struggling to record Trio Sonata No. 1 in Eb Major, BWV 525 by J.S. Bach

This question was sent by me, Vidas! I posted my answer in the Total Organist Community Basecamp channel, where I’ve been asked the question, “What have you been struggling with the most in organ playing this week. So, I wrote:
“Last week I was struggling to record Trio Sonata No. 1 in Eb Major, BWV 525 by J.S. Bach. Somehow I find it easier to play live recitals than to record pieces one by one.”

Jul 14, 202113:26
SOPP661: This week I was struggling to record videos. When I play, sometimes I hit the wrong key or pedal...

SOPP661: This week I was struggling to record videos. When I play, sometimes I hit the wrong key or pedal...

This question was written by Diana, and she writes,

"This week I was struggling to record videos. When I play, sometimes I hit the wrong key or pedal... also I had some difficulties recording the introduction of my performance in Unda Maris concert."

Jul 07, 202113:59
SOPP652: With all the performances and recitals I’ve been doing, it’s hard to set aside time to learn new things.

SOPP652: With all the performances and recitals I’ve been doing, it’s hard to set aside time to learn new things.

This question was sent by James, and he writes that he is struggling with:

“Sitting down and learning a new repertoire. With all the performances and recitals I’ve been doing, it’s hard to set aside time to learn new things.”

Jun 30, 202114:28