The Solo

The Tremulant

The solo part is one of the appropriate uses of the tremulant in classical organ registration. If a tremulant is regulated tastefully, it can add a beautiful touch to what might otherwise be a very straight, objective solo line. It is usually best avoided in the accompaniment. Here are a few types of solo line to which a tremulant might be added:

  • LONGER NOTE VALUES (Example 1)--
    Slower-moving lines allow each note enough time to complete the tremulant's undulation cycle.
  • SOFTER stops or combinations (Example 2)--
    The subtlety of a single 8' flute or reed enhanced by a good tremulant can be especially desirable.
  • CLEARER stop combinations (Example 3)--
    Even the larger clear combinations used on the solo, such as a cornet or a principal chorus, may benefit from a tremulant that is regulated with reasonable frequency and depth.