Once you’ve got a feel for basic hymn playing and pedal usage, the next step is learning how to play with deeper expression and confidence. This includes coordinating and communicating with a music leader and utilizing registration changes to bring a hymn to life.

Successful congregational singing requires close collaboration between the organist and the music leader. The organist must be able to follow the music leader's beat patterns, and both individuals need to share a cooperative, spiritually engaged mindset that positively influences the congregation. Thorough preparation from both sides is essential.

The purpose of a hymn introduction is to establish the hymn's key, tempo, and mood. The organist and conductor must meet regularly to rehearse and decide together on a suitable tempo. Once they've agreed, that same tempo should be maintained during the actual service. To ensure a smooth start, the conductor should clearly communicate the intended tempo to the organist before the hymn introduction begins, avoiding any need to adjust once the congregation starts singing. The organist should also be cautious not to slow down too much at the end of the introduction, as this can disrupt the sense of tempo.

In addition to tempo, the introduction should prepare the congregation for the pitch and emotional tone of the hymn. If the hymn is meant to be sung with strength and energy, the organist should reflect that with confident and inspiring playing, using appropriate registration and tempo.

For shorter or unfamiliar hymns, playing the entire hymn as the introduction can be helpful. A good technique for introducing a new hymn is to feature its melody on a solo stop or combination. For longer or more familiar hymns, a shortened version is often enough—just be sure to establish the key, tempo, and mood, and give the congregation enough time to locate the hymn in their books.

Changing the registration between verses or the verse and the chorus adds variety and interest to the hymn singing experience. It is also an essential tool for teaching the gospel message to the congregation. Registration changes are part of what brings a hymn to life.

1. Begin by practicing each voice of a hymn one at a time, as follows, listening for perfect legato when notes move and precise releases when notes are repeated:

• Soprano

• Alto

• Tenor 

• Bass (in the pedals)

2. Next practice all two-part combinations, listening for perfect legato, precise releases, and independence of line:

• Soprano and bass

• Alto and bass

• Soprano and tenor

• Alto and tenor

• Tenor and bass

• Soprano and alto

3. Next practice all three-part combinations, listening for perfect legato, precise releases, and independence of line:

• Soprano, alto, bass

• Soprano, alto, tenor

• Soprano, tenor, bass

• Alto, tenor, bass

4. Finally, practice all parts together, starting slowly enough to stay in control and achieve clean independence of line.

"Hymn Studies for Organists" by Dr. Parley Belnap is an excellent book that uses this technique for learning to play hymns on the organ in a polished style.