How to play the pipe organ
You'll need to find an instructor.
http://www.wikihow.com/Learn-to-Play-the-Organ
http://www.ehow.com/how_2087724_play-pipe-organ.html
And, you will have to practice, practice, practice. There is no such thing as a free lunch, somebody pays. On the pipe organ, the performer pays in practice.
Do a Google Search for a "pipe organ teacher" in your area. Often a school with a good music program may help you or a church that actually HAS a pipe organ. Let me tell you that it is work! Playing a pipe organ is not like playing an electric one. All the pipes are hermetically sealed and I only know one private individual who could afford to have one in the home!
Sra
To learn how to play the pipe organ, follow these steps:
1. Find an organ and location: Locate a pipe organ either at a local church, music school, or other venues that offer access to these instruments. Many churches and music schools allow individuals to practice on their organs, so contact them and inquire about their availability.
2. Understand the basics: Familiarize yourself with the layout and controls of the instrument. The pipe organ has multiple keyboards, called manuals, and a pedalboard. The manuals are located above the pedalboard and are played using the hands, while the pedalboard is played with the feet. Each manual controls a set of pipes with a different timbre or tone color.
3. Learn music theory: Developing a solid foundation in music theory will help you understand and appreciate the complexities of playing the pipe organ. Study concepts such as note reading, rhythm, scales, chords, and harmony. This knowledge will aid you in interpreting and performing organ music effectively.
4. Begin with basic exercises: Start with simple exercises to develop finger, hand, and foot coordination. These exercises focus on playing scales, arpeggios, and practicing pedal technique. Additionally, learn to coordinate independent lines by playing with each hand on different manuals simultaneously.
5. Study organ repertoire: Explore the vast repertoire of organ music, ranging from sacred compositions to secular works. Start with shorter pieces and gradually progress to more complex compositions. Study the techniques, registrations (choosing which sets of pipes to activate), and interpretation of renowned organ composers such as Johann Sebastian Bach, César Franck, and Olivier Messiaen.
6. Seek guidance from an instructor: Consider taking organ lessons from a qualified organ teacher. An instructor can provide personalized guidance, correct technique, and offer insights into the nuances of organ playing. They can also guide you in selecting appropriate pieces for your skill level and help you grow as an organist.
7. Practice regularly: Like any musical instrument, mastering the pipe organ requires dedicated practice. Allocate consistent practice time each day to develop your skills. Start slowly and gradually increase the tempo as you gain proficiency. Focus on accuracy, clarity, and the nuances of expression in your playing.
8. Attend workshops and recitals: Attend organ workshops and recitals to expand your knowledge and exposure to different styles and interpretations. These events also offer opportunities to network with other organists and gain insights from professionals in the field.
Remember, learning to play the pipe organ is a long-term commitment that requires patience, perseverance, and a passion for the instrument. Enjoy the journey of exploring this majestic and unique instrument.