This short treatment barely scratches the surface of organ registration. For those interested in gaining
further insight into this vital area of organ playing, we recommend the following resources:
Audsley, George Ashdown.
Organ Stops and their Artistic Registration
.
Hialeah, FL: C.P.P. Belwin, 1985.
Irwin, Stevens.
Dictionary of Pipe Organ Stops.
2nd ed.
New York: Macmillan Books, 1983.
Cherrington, Dr. Sally.
A Church Organist's Primer. Volumes I, II, & III.
Allen Organ Company. DVD
AOC PN: 031-00092.
XI.
TRANSPOSER
Vast computer capability makes it possible to perform the sometimes difficult task of transposing,
while allowing the organist to play in the notated key. The GeniSys™ Display controls the operation
of the Transposer.
Transposition to any of the twelve musical keys is possible. When the organ is turned ON, the
Transposer defaults to the neutral or zero (0) position. The pitch can be raised a maximum of five
half-steps or lowered a total of seven half-steps. Be aware that the Transposer’s range settings "wrap
around" from the plus five half-step setting to the minus seven half-step setting (or vice-versa).
The Transposer button within the GeniSys™ Display will change to a red color any time the
Transposer setting is moved from the zero (0) or neutral pitch position.
Why Transpose?
Because a song’s range does not always suit the vocal range of a particular singer. By
adjusting the Transposer, the piece can be sung more comfortably and effectively.
Because some instruments are non-concert pitch. A trumpet in B
b
, for example, can play the
same music as the organist, if the Transposer knob is set two half steps lower.
Because hymn singing can sometimes be improved by a more favorable key selection.
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