Introduction to Organ Workshop
There’s no other way to put this: organists are a vanishing breed. What’s the solution to this situation? Encourage piano students to start playing the organ when they are still young.
I (Andrew Hanson, the organist at Grace Lutheran Church) started playing the organ when I was in eighth grade at Sundal Lutheran Church, rural Gary. (When I was confirmed in ninth grade, the pastor was tickled to be able to say that he confirmed the organist!) I have played the organ at a number of different churches throughout high school and college, and I have now been at the organ bench at Grace for about ten years. It has truly been a very rewarding experience.
Are you a current piano student, or have you taken piano lessons in the past? Do you have a child or grandchild who plays? Here’s an opportunity to expand your craft:
George French, professor at UMC (with a Master’s in Organ Performance), has received a grant to provide an “introduction to the organ” workshop for intermediate to advanced pianists at a location in each of the seven counties of NW Minnesota. He is looking for at least three workshop participants of any age from the greater Erskine area who might be interested.
If you are interested, please fill out this form, and I will forward the information to George. (If all goes well at the workshop, you can fill in for me at the organ!)