St. Matthew's Lutheran Church
Wauwatosa, Wisconsin
The Organ in Worship
Organ Stop List
(pdf file)
The Organ in Worship
Basic Organ Information
Pew Side Guide to the
SMLC Organ
Frequently Asked
Questions
The Organ in Worship
And his brother’s name was Jubal: he was the father of
all such as handle the harp and organ. Genesis 4:21 KJV
They take the timbrel and harp, and rejoice at the sound of the organ.
Job 21:12 KJV
No other instrument has been so intrinsically identified with worship and the church as has the organ. In traditional worship, the organ is the backbone of the musical service. It can provide gathering and exiting music, accompany the choirs and soloists, and enrich hymn and psalm singing for the congregation. But no matter what the task, the organ historically has been the instrument of worship.
When the organ is played with authority, the organ can provide accompaniment and leadership for almost all types of congregational song.
As churches and congregations pursue "renewal" in worship, in theology, in music, in congregational song, and in personal piety, the organ and the organist should not be considered obsolete. The organ has century old roots that are still vibrant and healthy, and can continue to be of service. In the hands of a competent musician who can play with sensitivity and skill, the organ can effectively accompany in a variety of styles and moods.
The Organ in Today’s Worship
A church must concern itself with several elements of modern worship as
its sets about considering its options in obtaining an organ. Four specific
needs stand out.
Support of Congregational Singing
The organ will be most used, and most importantly used, in support of the
congregation’s song. Today’s congregations expect and need strong
support from the organ. Brightness, clarity, and liveliness of the sounds
are far more necess
ary than sheer volume. No matter how loud it may be,
a dull and ponderous tome will stifle the enthusiasm of the congregation
in its effort to praise God in song.
Accompaniment
of Choirs and Soloists
An organ capable of accompanying a choir or soloist must have some sort
of secondary, softer ensemble, in addition to the brighter, more present
sound needed for leading congregational singing. It also must have a palette
of sound colors that can be used to enhance and accent the texts and style
of the music being sung. Or in the case of instrumentalists, blend beautifully
with different instruments. e.g. Clarinet, Oboe, Flute, Violin, etc.
Solo Liturgical Music
Prelude, offertories, hymn introductions, and postlude should be integral
parts of the worship service. Generally an organ which adequately supports
congregational singing and accompanies choirs, etc. will also serve well
for solo music used in other parts of the service.
Recitals, Concerts, Etc.
Lastly, the organ needs to be adequate to play enough literature so that
it can give a respectable account of itself in a recital. Some may ask why
recitals and concerts should even be considered in an organ project. As
a church community we are always looking for way to share the Good News
with all people in our community and beyond. By opening our doors to the
outside and allowing people to come in and hear the beautiful music God
has given to us, we are able to share a piece of that Good News with all.
An organ with a proper design and installation for congregational singing, choir and soloist accompanying, service music, etc. will serve all these needs.
Page Revised October 2008