by Barbara Childs
The Organ — a mythical instrument, part man and part beast, known to inhabit churches — especially ones that are cold, damp, draughty and impoverished.
So, how does one make this instrument attractive to both players and listeners?
At this time when we are endeavouring to launch a competition for young people and to encourage others to “have-a-go” should we be looking at ourselves as church organists to try and understand why the instrument brings out such strong feelings amongst the general public? How often does one hear “Oh, I don’t like the organ!” Is this because we play with little feeling for respective services? Do we play voluntaries which we like regardless of all else?
The rôle of a church organist is sadly undermined in many churches. Obviously we turn up and just play anything demanded, or so many people imagine. How often one hears that hymn lists are not available until just before a service. How can one give of one’s best under those conditions?
Weddings and funerals are now becoming a nightmare with music?? which one is asked to play. Should we not be guiding the clergy as to what will sound alright on the organ — or is it right just to let those outside the church have just what they want?
A further intrusion on one’s privacy comes in the form of “criminal disclosure”. Has this been taken too far by the dioceses? Why is it necessary if you are sitting on an organ stool?
So at this time perhaps we should firstly look at ourselves and ensure that we aim for our best and secondly, that we work more closely with those taking services to ensure the future of our wonderful instrument.
I hope this will bring forth ideas and suggestions from you all but PLEASE will you talk, talk, talk to everyone about the Organ Festival. We do need competitors!!