RCO Journal Volume 12, 2018
The 2018 edition of the College’s annual research publication, The Journal of the Royal College of Organists, can be downloaded here as a complete edition.
The Dutch composer Hendrik Andriessen (1892-1981): his life, career and organ works
A biographical sketch of the Dutch composer Kendrik Andriessen, with a discussion of his organ works.
An introduction to playing styles with Daniel Moult: 5 Franck to Widor
This is the fifth video in Daniel Moult’s series on playing styles, and discusses the performance of the organ music of French Romanticism, from Franck to Widor.
A Guide to Organ Scholarships | 1. An introduction to organ scholarships
Ann Elise Smoot introduces a series of eight films showing what to consider and what to prepare when applying for an organ scholarship, whether at a university, a cathedral, or parish church. A comprehensive reading list is included with the series.
A Guide to Organ Scholarships | 2. What is an organ scholarship?
Ann Elise Smoot discusses the benefits of an organ scholarship with former organ scholars, and asks current Directors of Music what is expected of organ scholars in terms of duties and responsibilities.
A Guide to Organ Scholarships | 3. Keyboard skills
Mark Williams and Ann Elise Smoot suggest ways to improve your keyboard skills in preparation for applying for an organ scholarship. A reading list with further resources is included.
A Guide to Organ Scholarships | 4. Registration
Richard Pinel and Ann Elise Smoot explain how to create and manage registration schemes on the organ, whether by hand or using divisional pistons, with a focus on choral accompaniment.
A Guide to Organ Scholarships | 5. Improvisation
Ann Elise Smoot and Matthew Martin discuss improvisation, a skill all organ scholars will have to use at some point. They suggest how you can develop confidence in two important areas: creating processional music, and hymn extensions.
A Guide to Organ Scholarships | 6. Aural Tests
Organ scholar trials usually include some aural tests, and Anna Lapwood talks through the aural tests for Cambridge organ scholarships, so you can see what type of skills are expected.
