The electric organ is a popular instrument used in many different styles of music. Besides traditional gospel music, this versatile instrument can be used in jazz, pop, swing, new wave, rock and roll and many other types of music. As is true with other musical instruments, learning to play the electric organ takes time, practice and a good deal of patience. Starting with simple melodies, before progressing to more complex songs, is the best way to gain a sound understanding of the instrument and all of its capabilities.
Things You'll Need:
- Computer With Internet
- Music Books Or Videos
- Electric Organ
Learning Electric Organ
Visit one of the many online resources for beginning electric organists. You might choose to start with a simulated keyboard experience. Frontier.net offers a free online training keyboard called "Play Piano/Synthesizer/Oscilloscope." The interactive digital keyboard can help you learn music theory, as well as develop an understanding of the relationship between sounds, scales, math and music.
Freeed.net offers free online courses in music theory, music appreciation and instrumental and vocal performance. Also visit the website of "Electronic Blues Club." This site offers free online lessons and tutorials for a variety of subjects including piano and keyboard as well as basic music skills.
Use books and videos to help you learn how to play the electric organ. "Klavarskribo" offers a wide selection of learn to play music books, including books that focus entirely on the electric organ. Other books and videos are available online and through your local music or bookstore. Save money on the cost of music books by visiting your local library. If they don't have a book that you want in stock, they can usually get it for you within a few days.
Use a model of electric organ that has an LCD screen. An organ which has an LCD screen will usually have other built-in "learn to play" features. These features often include a pre-programmed song bank. As a song is played from the song bank, the notes will appear on the screen. Some models include on-screen symbols that demonstrate proper placement of the fingers while playing as well. Electric organs with LCD screens may also show the possible chord selections for the notes, as they are being played on the keyboard.
Recruit a mentor. Friends or relatives are often willing to share their musical talent with others who want to learn. Even if you don't know anyone who plays the electric organ currently, you may still be able to find a mentor. Visit local churches and talk to organists about your interest in the electric organ. Call your local extension office and ask if they have a mentoring music program available, or if they can help you locate one in your area. Other options for finding a mentor might include schools or colleges, and local art, theater and music centers.
Hire an instructor. Visit your local music store to inquire about electric organ lessons. Most music stores have a bulletin board where musicians that are offering lessons can advertise their services. If you don't find an instructor advertised, try putting your own "electric organ instructor wanted" ad on the bulletin board. Also ask the staff to take your name and number and contact you if an interested person should come into the store.
Writer Bio
Randa Morris began her freelance career in 1994 as staff reporter for the "Ogemaw County Herald." She works as a full-time content producer for online and print publications. Her writing is often motivated by her work with adult and child trauma survivors. Morris received level two trauma certification from The National Institute of Trauma and Loss in Children.
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