Finger Substitution

Lesson 3

Goal:

Develop fluent legato technique and flexible finger coordination on the organ keyboard.

Instructions:

• Understand the Technique:

  • • Finger substitution means sliding a new finger onto a held note to free the original finger for the next note or chord.

    • This allows for continuous legato without relying on the piano's sustain pedal.

• Select the following stops on your organ: 

  • • Great: Diapason 8 (Principal 8) and Octave 4 (Prestant 4) 

• Watch the demonstration video for each exercise and practice the technique as shown.

• Follow the given fingering.

• Maintain Legato:

  • • Aim for a seamless connection between notes—no gaps, no overlaps.

    • Let the new finger gently slide onto the key before the original finger lifts.

• Hand Position:

  • • Keep fingers curved and relaxed.

    • Avoid lifting the hand during substitution—keep contact with the keys.

• Practice Tips:

  • • Practice slowly, focusing on precision and fluid motion.

    • Use a metronome to maintain a steady tempo, increasing only when the motion becomes natural.

Daily Practice Recommendation:

• • • 5 minutes per day. Consistent practice builds coordination, confidence, and lasting muscle memory.

Finger Substitution Examples from Hymns