MDS-8
Section IV
12
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. Operation of the
Transposer is controlled by the Transposer knob, found inside the Console Controller™
drawer on the left side underneath the Great manual. Neutral position (no transposition)
for the knob is marked “
z
.” To shift the music to a higher key, move the knob counter-
clockwise. The key can be raised a maximum of five half-steps. To shift to a lower key,
move the Transposer knob clockwise from “
z
.” The key can be lowered a total of seven
half-steps. A RED INDICATOR LIGHT COMES ON WHENEVER THE
TRANSPOSER KNOB IS MOVED FROM THE “
z
” POSITION.
WHY TRANSPOSE?
1. Because the range of a song will not always suit the vocal range of a particular singer.
By adjusting the transposer, the piece can be sung more comfortably and effectively.
2. 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.
3. Because hymn singing can sometimes be improved by a more favorable key selection.
Hymn singing can also be enhanced by playing the hymn in its original key, and then
playing a short modulation at the end of the stanza that leads into the key one-half step
above the key in which the hymn is written. If the hymn is already in a fairly high key, it
may be preferable to play the first few stanzas with the Transposer set
down
one-half or
one whole step, then modulate up to the original key for the final stanza.
SETTING PISTONS
Allen’s double memory capture system allows the organist to set two complete groups of
piston combinations covering the entire organ, or each of two organists to set his or her
own combinations on one memory. Select the capture memory you want to use by
depressing the Memory B piston button. (The capture action is not fully operable until
approximately six seconds after the organ is turned on.)
For example, choose a stop registration you wish to place on General Piston 1. You may
select any combination of stops. General pistons are located on the left side of the Piston
Rail (Piston Slip) under the Swell Manual and are numbered 1 through 5. General pistons
are sometimes set from soft to loud using graduated registrations. After you have
selected the stops, press and hold the SET piston, while holding SET press and release
General piston 1. Finally, release the SET piston. General piston 1 will “remember” the
combination of stops you assigned to it and bring on that registration each time General
Piston 1 of the same memory is pressed. You can change the registration assigned to any
General piston at any time by repeating the above procedure.
PROGRAMMABLE CONSOLE FUNCTIONS
