The Place of the Church Organ

The author describes the musical education of Divinity students as a mere ‘hasty reference’, yet modern worship must include a careful consideration of the part to be played by the organ. It has three functions: to create or intensify a favourable ‘atmosphere’ for worship; to lead the singing of the congregation; and to accompany the choir. Organ voluntaries are deemed ‘not essential’ and certain music is unsuitable for performance as a voluntary. Congregational singing is desirable and the organ ‘encourages timid worshippers to sing’. Consoles may be a considerable distance from the casework. With the console properly placed the organist may tell if the congregation is singing satisfactorily or not.