Lesson 4

Registration: Non-Speaking Stops

This is the second of six organ registration lessons for Organ Performance Level 2, which should be completed in order. It may be studied concurrently with a music theory lesson and a played assignment. Its concepts will be covered in both the midcourse and the final reviews.

This lesson covers fundamentals in organ registration 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.

Learning Outcomes

  1. Distinguish between speaking and non-speaking stops.
  2. Describe and apply the various types of intermanual and intramanual couplers.
  3. Describe the function and common applications of the unison-off coupler.
  4. Explain the function and potential applications of MIDI couplers.
  5. Describe the purpose and proper applications of the tremulant, and know the possibilities for its adjustment.

Reading Assignment

In OrganTutor Online, study the following lesson:

For all OrganTutor Online lessons, 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:

Supplement your study of the OrganTutor Online lesson with the "Non-Speaking Stops" sections in the workbook as needed.