Lesson 1

Manual and Pedal Technique (review)

Lesson 1 sets the stage for success in Level 2 by reviewing basic manual and pedal techniques and other important topics from Level 1. It covers fundamentals that should be learned and applied by every organist. Its concepts will be reviewed on exams/reviews throughout Levels 3 through 6. Thorough study and understanding of these concepts now will bring great benefits as you progress through the higher levels.

This lesson may be studied concurrently with theory lessons (Lessons 3, 5, 8, and 10) and registration lessons (Lessons 2, 4, 6, 7, 9, and 11), but must be completed before any of the played assignments and before taking the midcourse review.

Learning Outcomes

1. Describe the fundamental manner in which the organ produces tone and the implications this has in organ technique.
2. Discuss various effective techniques for use in organ practice.
3. Identify perfect legato, precise releases, and independence of line as important fundamental listening skills for organ practice.
4. Recognize and know how to apply each of the six basic legato manual organ techniques.
5. Describe the fundamental checkpoints that are basic to legato pedal technique.
6. Describe the characteristics of a good organ shoe.

Reading Assignment

In OrganTutor Online, study the following lessons:

• Nature of Organ Tone
• Listening Skills for Practice
• Correct Position at the Organ
• Practice Techniques
• Manual Technique--Introduction
• Organ Shoes
• Pedal Technique--Introduction

For all OrganTutor Online lessons, if you have not already done so, take notes in the “OrganTutor Organ 101 Lesson Objectives” section near the end of the workbook. As you study, set a goal to internalize each concept thoroughly. Test your understanding by answering the Quick Review questions at the end of each OrganTutor concept and by taking the end-of-lesson tests.

In The OrganTutor Workbook:

Familiarize yourself with the entire Manual Technique section in the workbook. At this point, the manual techniques need only be identified and understood, not played.

Supplement your study of the OrganTutor Online lessons with corresponding sections in the workbook as needed.