• By now, you should be able to:

  • Confidently perform at least two 3-part hymns and one standard hymn all in polished mode with clean independence of line and registration plans suitable for both congregational accompaniment and prelude, and incorporating the use of pedals.

  • Optional: confidently perform an organ hymn arrangement of your choice.

• Additionally, you should have developed a solid understanding of the following, along with the ability to apply them effectively:

  • The organ console and its components.

  • Choosing organ stops for various parts of the sacrament meeting.

  • Executing a clean legato touch.

  • Appropriate treatment of repeated notes in standard hymns.

  • Achieving clean, independent lines in your playing.

  • Implementing good phrasing.

• If you find that any of these areas require further attention, please continue working with your organ mentor to build confidence and proficiency.

• As you become comfortable with these foundational principles, it's time to consider how to continue developing and refining your skills as an organ accompanist.

Collaborate with your music coordinator and church leaders to select hymns in alignment with the following guidelines:

For Immediate Needs

When hymns must be prepared quickly, consider using the following resources:

• The New Ward Organist (free)

• Manual Only Hymns for Organ (free)

• Easy Organ Hymn Settings by Dr. Don Cook ($)

Standard Hymnbook Selections

For hymns from the standard hymnbook, work closely with your music coordinator and church leaders to ensure sufficient time is dedicated for thorough preparation. The following structured approach is recommended:

• Use Hymn Studies for Organists by Dr. Parley Belnap ($) — This resource offers an excellent foundation for developing a polished playing style. It emphasizes:

  • Perfect legato technique

  • Precise releases of repeated notes

  • Independence of musical lines

This method is ideal for organists continuing their development independently or in tandem with an organ teacher.

Suggested approach:

• Progress through Hymn Studies for Organists according to the directions given on the "Mastering Hymn Playing" page (link below).

• Carefully read the instructional material at the beginning of each chapter.

• Aim to polish several hymns per chapter.

This focused study will help you improve in the following areas:

• Refining pedaling and fingering

• Strengthening independence of line

• Executing repeated notes accurately

• Shaping musical phrases effectively

• Developing registration plans that support enthusiastic congregational singing and convey the gospel message powerfully

By following this structured path, you will continually enhance your skills and more effectively bless your congregation as a confident and capable church organist.