Comparisons

Finger Crossing

Finger crossing--where one finger passes over or under another in order to “extend” the hand position--is relatively economical. Since it requires some extension and extra bending of the fingers, it is surpassed in economy of motion by direct fingering.

However, finger crossing requires less motion and offers more security than substitution or thumb glissando. For most beginning organists it is simpler than redistribution. It offers a more secure legato than finger glissando.