An organist is someone who plays the organ, which is a keyboard instrument with one or more keyboards. Organs come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and anyone who plays one is referred to as an organist. Organists frequently perform with orchestras, in churches, or as accompanists to singers in a variety of settings. Organs are well-known for their use in churches; pipe organs, in particular, are frequently used to accompany church hymns and create ambient music during the western Christian mass and other times of worship.
Because the pipe organ is the most common type of organ, the term organist most commonly refers to those who play it. Pipe organs come in a wide range of sizes, from small individual keyboards to massive musical instruments with over 10,000 pipes and multiple pedals and keyboards. The pipe organ gets its name from the fact that it creates sound forcing pressurized air through pipes that resonate at a specific frequency. Pipe organs, like other types of organs, are frequently very ornately designed, as they are usually permanent fixtures in ornate churches and chapels.
Organists typically begin learning to play the instrument at a young age. One-on-one instruction is frequently available for aspiring students. Many organists, particularly church organists who are rarely paid for playing at mass, are more than willing to supplement their income teaching organ. Many undergraduate and graduate programs in organ performance are available to students who want to learn to play the organ or improve their skills as an organist.
Organ shoes may be required in addition to an organ to practice on and a teacher from whom to learn if one wishes to become an organist. Organ shoes are special shoes designed to reduce the risk of injury caused the repetitive motions of operating an organ’s pedals. They also prevent dirt, stones, and grime from damaging the organ’s pedals because they are only worn at the organ.
An accomplished organist can play in a variety of situations and settings. Organists are common in churches, and especially talented organists may be able to perform at large and important cathedrals. An organist might also be needed to provide music for a local community musical theater production. While organ music is uncommon in contemporary music, it is common in classical, jazz, and a variety of other genres.