The Best Tip On Playing The Organ

[rpking]

My tip would be to realize that there is no set rule in playing the organ.  You may run across those who will tell you to just "pad", meaning to play notes/licks/chords without lifting your fingers off the keys.  Even though that is very important technique to master since there is no sustain for the classic Hammond organ, you don't have to be limiting to padding.  Playing with a staccato feel (choppy, lifting your fingers off the keys) adds an effective touch to many songs.......

[BobV]

When done correctly and at the right time, runs are an added pleasure.  Most people overdue them, which can really be iritating and painful to listen to.

YES. Definately. When practicing at  home, throw runs in all over the place. Practicing at home is in a nutshell where you always need to push yourselve to the level you are NOT at. This is how/where you get better. Work at slower, easier tempos until you get it, then as fast as you possible can. Then you can comfortably play in the proper tempo.

But when playing out or in worship... I like to tease them. I play in a band so never solo. Which means I can sort of hide in the back, support the music and every once in a while, jump out with a nice run somewhere. When it's heard sparingly, it's really appreciated. If you play them too often they can annoy the listener and you increase your odds of messing one up .

So learn them like they are going out of style, but use them carefully.

Best wishes.
Bob <><