An essential guide to all aspects of the organ and its music--from the history of the instrument to the practical art of learning and playing it to the vast repertoire of organ music. 31 photos. 70 music examples.
Offering a guide to all aspects of the organ and its music, this work examines the instrument, the player and the repertoire. The early chapters tell of the instrument's history and construction, identify the scientific basis of its sounds and the development of its pitch and tuning, examine the history of the organ case, and consider the current trends and conflicts within the world of organ building. Central chapters investigate the practical art of learning and playing the organ, introduce the complex area of performance practice, and outline the relationship between organ playing and the liturgy of the church. The final section explores the vast repertoire of organ music, focusing on a selection of the most important traditions. The essays, all newly commissioned, are written by experts in their field, making this the most authoritative reference book currently available.