Whether you’re classically trained or just attempting to make a living from your instrument, attempting to get gigs as an organist can be tough. However, if you are an organist who is also an adept pianist, it should not be too difficult to get paid pianist gigs, as well as those playing the organ.
It is also recommended by many that organ players get special organ shoes. These shoes are similar to ballet shoes with solid heels and toes and allow the performer’s heel to not get caught between the pedals and avoid a ‘click’ if the heel comes into contact with a hard surface.
It is naturally expected that all organists are competent performers and are able to expertly read music. It is also advantageous if the organist is able to maintain the instrument.
Church work
This is the most obvious one. As an organist for a church, musicians will be required to work with a music director or choir to choose the hymns for the church services.
Often performing multiple times over a weekend, the job of an organist in a place of worship is usually a part time job, and will be asked to perform at weddings, funerals and other events at other points during the year.
It is also possible that the musician will be asked to perform in other churches across the diocese.
Atheists: Don’t worry, most churches do not mind that you don’t sing from the same hymn book, just as long as you can perform the organ to a high standard.
Playing in bands and session work
The skill of playing an organ can be utilised both in the studio and in live bands. Many rock bands may want to include an organist in their line up – after all, the hammond organ sounds amazing.
Whether full or part time and it’s possible that your skills as an organist are also transferrable for other instruments.
Organists should also offer themselves as a session musician as it not only pays well but also necessitates multi-instrumentalists with excellent reading skills.
Page turning
Whilst this is not strictly an organists job, it does require a a musician who is able to read music to a high standard.
They say that a page turner is fulfilling their role when they are silent! According to NPR, the role also pays well…
Are you a gigging organist? Let us know where you play in the comments below!
