Whether you’re preparing for professional certification through the American Guild of Organists (AGO) or building a comprehensive library for your career, having the right books for an organist is essential. The path to becoming a skilled organist requires more than just practice—it demands deep knowledge across multiple disciplines, from music theory to historical performance practice. In this post, we have some top recommended books for the organist library!
This curated collection represents the core texts that every serious organist should have within arm’s reach. These resources will serve you throughout your journey, from certification preparation to professional performance and teaching.
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General Music Knowledge
Understanding the broader context of music history and theory forms the foundation of excellent organist skills.
“A History of Baroque Music” by George Buelow – This book offers an in-depth exploration of the Baroque period, highlighting the rich tapestry of musical innovation and stylistic evolution from the late 16th to the early 18th century. The book delves into the works of pivotal composers and the cultural contexts that shaped their contributions to this dynamic era in music history.
“A History of Musical Style” by Richard Crocker – This text provides a comprehensive exploration of the evolution of musical genres and forms from ancient times to the present day. The book delves into the cultural and historical influences that have shaped the development of music across different periods and regions.
“A History of Western Music” by J. Peter Burkholder, Donald Jay Grout, and Claude V. Palisca – This comprehensive text provides the historical framework every organist needs to understand the evolution of music and the organ’s role within it. The detailed coverage of periods from medieval to contemporary helps organists contextualize their repertoire.
“The Classical Style” by Charles Rosen – “The Classical Style” by Charles Rosen is a profound exploration of the music from the classical era, focusing on the works of Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven. Renowned for its insightful analysis, the book delves into the intricacies of musical form and expression, offering readers a deeper understanding of the era’s enduring impact.
“Medieval Music” by Richard Hoppin – “Medieval Music” by Richard Hoppin is a comprehensive exploration of the musical practices and developments from the early medieval period through the fourteenth century. The book provides a detailed analysis of various musical genres, forms, and notations that shaped the medieval soundscape.
“The New Grove Dictionary of Music and Musicians” edited by Stanley Sadie and John Tyrrell – “The New Grove Dictionary of Music and Musicians,” edited by Stanley Sadie and John Tyrrell, is a comprehensive reference work that covers an extensive range of topics in music history, theory, and practice from around the world. Renowned for its scholarly depth, this authoritative resource is an essential tool for musicologists, educators, and enthusiasts seeking detailed information on composers, performers, and musical instruments.
“Norton Anthology of Western Music” by J. Peter Burkholder, Donald Jay Grout, and Claude V. Palisca – The “Norton Anthology of Western Music” by J. Peter Burkholder, Donald Jay Grout, and Claude V. Palisca is a comprehensive collection that offers an in-depth exploration of Western music’s evolution from the Middle Ages to the present. It includes a wide array of carefully selected pieces, illustrating the diverse styles and historical significance of Western musical traditions.
“An Outline History of Western Music” by Wold, Martin, Miller, Cykler – “An Outline History of Western Music” by Wold, Martin, Miller, and Cykler offers a comprehensive exploration of the evolution of Western music from ancient times to the contemporary era. The book provides insightful analysis and clear explanations, making it an essential resource for both music students and enthusiasts.
“Romantic Music: A History of Musical Style in Nineteenth-Century Europe” by Leon Plantinga –
Leon Plantinga’s “Romantic Music” delves into the evolution and characteristics of the Romantic era in music, highlighting its emotional expressiveness and thematic diversity. The book provides an insightful exploration of how this period expanded musical forms and genres, influencing composers and shaping the cultural landscape.
“Soundings: Music in the Twentieth Century” by Glenn Watkins – “Soundings: Music in the Twentieth Century” by Glenn Watkins offers an insightful exploration into the transformative developments in music throughout the 1900s, highlighting influential figures and groundbreaking movements. This comprehensive tome serves as a vital resource for understanding the evolution of musical trends and their impact on cultural landscapes during this dynamic century.
“Twentieth Century Music: A History of Musical Style in Modern Europe and America” by Robert P. Morgan
– This text provides an insightful exploration of the evolution and diversity of musical styles throughout the twentieth century, focusing on key movements and influential composers. The book expertly contextualizes these developments within broader cultural and historical trends, offering readers a comprehensive understanding of modern Western music.
Organ History & Literature
Understanding your instrument’s development enhances both performance and teaching abilities.
“The Cambridge Companion to the Organ” by Nicholas Thistlethwaite and Geoffrey Webber – “The Cambridge Companion to the Organ,” authored by Nicholas Thistlethwaite and Geoffrey Webber, provides a comprehensive exploration of the organ’s history, design, and significance within various musical traditions. This scholarly work combines insights from leading experts to illuminate the instrument’s evolution and its impact on both sacred and secular music.
“The Language of the Classical French Organ” by Fenner Douglass – “The Language of the Classical French Organ” by Fenner Douglass offers an in-depth exploration of the distinctive stylistic characteristics and historical evolution of French organ music from the Baroque period. The book provides insight into both the musical styles and the construction of classical French organs, enriching the reader’s understanding of this unique musical tradition.
“Organ Literature – A Comprehensive Survey” by Corliss Arnold – “Organ Literature – A Comprehensive Survey” by Corliss Arnold is a thorough examination of the organ repertoire, detailing the historical evolution and the significant works that have shaped the instrument’s legacy. This authoritative guide offers invaluable insights for both scholars and enthusiasts of organ music.
Historical Performance Practice for Organists
Authentic performance practice brings historical music to life with appropriate style and interpretation.
“Bach’s Feet: The Organ Pedals in European Culture” by David Yearsley – Yearsley’s fascinating exploration of pedal technique and its cultural significance provides unique insights into Baroque performance practice.
“J.S. Bach’s Keyboard Technique: A Historical Introduction” by Quentin Faulkner – “J.S. Bach’s Keyboard Technique: A Historical Introduction” by Quentin Faulkner offers an in-depth exploration of Bach’s keyboard practices within the historical context of his time. The book delves into the intricacies of Bach’s methods, providing both musicians and historians with valuable insights into the development and application of his techniques.
“Keyboard Interpretation from the 14th to the 19th Century” by Howard Ferguson – “Keyboard Interpretation from the 14th to the 19th Century” by Howard Ferguson provides a comprehensive exploration of the evolving techniques and expressive nuances in keyboard music across five centuries. The book delves into historical practices, offering insights into the performance and interpretation of music from the Renaissance to the Romantic era. It’s one of my personal favorite books in my music library.
“Organ Technique – Modern & Early” by George Ritchie and George Stauffer – “Organ Technique – Modern & Early” by George Ritchie and George Stauffer provides a comprehensive guide to mastering organ techniques, exploring both historical and contemporary practices. It serves as an essential resource for organists of all levels, offering detailed insights into performance methodologies and stylistic nuances.
“Performance Practice, Vol. 1: Music Before 1600” by Brown and Sadie – “Performance Practice, Vol. 1: Music Before 1600” by Brown and Sadie meticulously explores the interpretation and execution of music composed before the 17th century. This scholarly work offers invaluable insights into the historical contexts and techniques that shaped early music performance, making it an essential resource for musicians and academics alike.
“Performance Practice: Music After 1600 by Brown and Sadie” – The companion book by Brown and Sadie is a comprehensive exploration of the evolving techniques and interpretations of music from the 17th century onwards. The book delves into the historical context and scholarly analysis that have shaped modern performances of classical music.
Keyboard Skills
Technical proficiency forms the basis of all musical expression at the organ.
“18th Century Continuo Playing: A Historical Guide to the Basics” by Jesper Christensen – The Jesper Christensen book offers an insightful exploration into the foundational techniques and historical context of continuo playing during the Baroque period. This guide serves as an essential resource for musicians and scholars alike, seeking to deepen their understanding of this crucial element of 18th-century music performance.
“Continuo Playing According to Handel: His Figured Bass Exercises” – This book is a comprehensive guide for musicians seeking to master the art of basso continuo as Handel intended, featuring detailed exercises that illuminate the intricacies of his musical technique. This book offers valuable insights into historical performance practices, making it an indispensable resource for both students and seasoned performers.
“Figured Harmony at the Keyboard” by Reginald Morris (in two volumes) – An authoritative guide that delves into the principles and practice of figured bass, a fundamental aspect of baroque and classical music composition. This two-volume work is designed to enhance the reader’s understanding and application of harmonic progressions and voice leading at the keyboard.
Harmony
Strong harmonic knowledge enables organists to understand and interpret their repertoire more effectively.
“A New Approach to Keyboard Harmony” by Allen Brings – “A New Approach to Keyboard Harmony” by Allen Brings offers musicians an innovative perspective on the fundamentals of keyboard harmony, presenting techniques that enhance both practical skills and theoretical understanding. This book is ideal for learners seeking to deepen their appreciation and competence in keyboard music through a structured and insightful methodology.
“Harmonic Practice in Tonal Music” by Robert Gauldin – Gauldin’s practical approach to harmony study includes numerous examples from organ literature, making it particularly relevant for organists.
“Tonal Harmony” by Stefan Kostka and Dorothy Payne – This widely-used text provides clear explanations of harmonic principles essential for organ literature analysis and performance.
Improvisation
The ability to improvise has always been central to the organist’s craft, whether for liturgical purposes or concert performance.
“Improvisation: How to Master the Art” by Gerre Hancock – Gerre Hancock’s guide is insightful for musicians seeking to enhance their improvisational skills, offering practical techniques and exercises. The book encapsulates Hancock’s extensive experience and wisdom, making it an essential resource for both beginners and seasoned performers. It’s another personal favorite from my library.
“Tonal Harmony for the Keyboard: With an Introduction to Improvisation” by Gary Wittlich and Deborah Martin – “Tonal Harmony for the Keyboard: With an Introduction to Improvisation” by Gary Wittlich and Deborah Martin is an essential guide that blends the principles of tonal harmony with practical keyboard exercises. This book is ideal for musicians seeking to expand their improvisational skills while solidifying their understanding of harmonic concepts.
Score Reading
The ability to read and interpret complex scores quickly is essential for professional organists.
“Four-Part Chorales” by J.S. Bach – “Four-Part Chorales” by J.S. Bach is a comprehensive collection of chorales that showcases the intricate harmonies and masterful counterpoint characteristic of Bach’s compositions. This compilation serves as an essential resource for musicians and scholars alike, offering insight into the rich musical tradition of the Baroque era.
“Preparatory Exercises in Score Reading” by Reginald Morris and Howard Ferguson – “Preparatory Exercises in Score Reading” by Reginald Morris and Howard Ferguson is a comprehensive guide designed to enhance a musician’s ability to read and interpret orchestral scores. Through carefully crafted exercises, the book aims to develop the reader’s proficiency in recognizing musical patterns and understanding complex compositions.
“Score Reading Exercises” by C.S. Lang (two volumes) – “Score Reading Exercises” by C.S. Lang is a comprehensive guide designed to enhance musicians’ ability to interpret and understand musical scores through a series of practical exercises. The book focuses on improving skills in score reading for vocal, instrumental, and orchestral works, making it an invaluable resource for both students and professionals in music education.
Arranging Piano Accompaniments for Organ
Converting piano accompaniments for organ use is a crucial skill for church musicians.
“The Art of Transcribing for the Organ” by Herbert Ellingford – “The Art of Transcribing for the Organ” by Herbert Ellingford provides an in-depth exploration of techniques and strategies for effectively adapting various musical compositions to the organ. This comprehensive guide not only enhances the skills of seasoned organists but also serves as an invaluable resource for those new to the art of transcription.
“Choir Accompaniment” by Dudley Buck – “Choir Accompaniment” by Dudley Buck is a comprehensive guide that explores the intricacies of accompanying choirs, offering detailed insights and techniques for both novice and experienced accompanists. This book serves as an invaluable resource for understanding the dynamic relationship between the accompanist and choir, enhancing overall performance quality.
Organ Registration
“Organ Registration” by Everett Truette – “Organ Registration” by Everett Truette is a comprehensive guide that delves into the art and science of selecting and combining organ stops to achieve desired tonal effects. It serves as an essential resource for organists seeking to enhance their understanding and mastery of organ registration techniques.
“Organ-Stops and Their Artistic Registration” by George Ashdown Audsley – This classic reprint is a comprehensive guide exploring the intricacies and artistic nuances of organ-stop management, essential for musicians and enthusiasts alike. The book delves into the history, function, and aesthetic implications of various organ stops, providing readers with an in-depth understanding of their role in creating rich and varied organ music.
Hymn Playing
Effective hymn playing requires specific skills that differ from solo organ performance.
“Adorning Hymns at the Organ: The Art of the Liturgical Organist” by Justus Parrotta – “Adorning Hymns at the Organ: The Art of the Liturgical Organist” by Justus Parrotta is a captivating exploration of the intricate techniques and artistry required to elevate hymns through organ music, providing valuable insights for both novice and experienced liturgical organists. This book serves as a comprehensive guide to mastering the nuances of organ performance in a religious setting.
“Manual of Hymn Playing” by David Heller – “Manual of Hymn Playing” by David Heller offers an in-depth exploration of hymn playing techniques, focusing on registration, diverse accompaniment styles, and effective congregational leadership. This essential resource is designed for both novice and experienced organists seeking to enhance their hymn playing skills.
Sight Reading
Strong sight-reading abilities enable organists to learn new music efficiently and handle unexpected musical situations.
“Miniatures for Organ” by Herbert Howells – “Miniatures for Organ” by Herbert Howells is a captivating collection of brief yet expressive compositions showcasing the organ’s versatility and Howells’ signature harmonic language. Each piece is a testament to Howells’ ability to convey rich emotion and complexity within concise musical forms.
Sight-read the Pedals!: Eighty pieces for organ sight reading plus pedal studies by Richard Ellis
– This book is a comprehensive guide featuring eighty organ pieces and specialized pedal exercises designed to enhance the sight-reading skills of organists navigating the complexities of multi-manual and pedal coordination. The resource is ideal for both beginners and seasoned organists looking to improve their technical proficiency and reading agility.
Music Theory – Harmony
Advanced harmonic understanding deepens musical interpretation and enables effective teaching.
The Complete Musician: An Integrated Approach to Tonal Theory, Analysis, and Listening by Steven Laitz – “The Complete Musician: An Integrated Approach to Tonal Theory, Analysis, and Listening” by Steven Laitz is a comprehensive textbook that provides students with a thorough understanding of music theory, offering a balanced approach that integrates analysis and listening skills to enhance their overall musicianship.
“Harmony” by Walter Piston – “Harmony” by Walter Piston is a comprehensive guide that delves into the principles and structures of tonal harmony, suitable for both novice and experienced musicians. The book offers a detailed exploration of harmonic functions, providing readers with a solid foundation in music theory and composition.
“Harmony in Context” by Miguel Roig-Francoli – “Harmony in Context” by Miguel Roig-Francoli is an insightful textbook that integrates traditional and contemporary approaches to teaching music theory, offering students a comprehensive understanding of harmonic practices across different historical periods. With its engaging exercises and clear explanations, it serves as an essential resource for deepening one’s grasp of harmonic concepts.
“Harmony and Voice Leading” by Edward Aldwell and Carl Schachter – “Harmony and Voice Leading” by Edward Aldwell and Carl Schachter provides a comprehensive exploration of music theory, focusing on the intricacies of harmony and the principles of voice leading, making it an essential resource for both students and educators in the field.
“Tonal Harmony” by Stefan Kostka and Dorothy Payne – “Tonal Harmony” by Stefan Kostka and Dorothy Payne is a comprehensive textbook that explores the principles and practices of tonal music theory, offering in-depth analysis and a wealth of examples to aid in understanding harmony in Western music traditions.
Musical Form & Analysis
Understanding musical structure enhances both performance and teaching effectiveness.
“Anthology for Musical Analysis” by Charles Burkhart – “Anthology for Musical Analysis” by Charles Burkhart is a comprehensive resource that offers an extensive collection of musical scores, designed to enhance the analytical skills of students and music enthusiasts by providing insightful commentary and examples from various musical periods. This book serves as an invaluable tool for understanding the structural elements of music through practical analysis.
“Classical Form: A Theory of Formal Functions for the Instrumental Music of Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven” by William Caplin – “Classical Form: A Theory of Formal Functions for the Instrumental Music of Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven” by William Caplin provides an in-depth analysis of the formal structures in classical instrumental music, offering insights into the compositional techniques of three of the most influential composers of the classical era. The book serves as a crucial resource for understanding the functional principles that underpin the music of Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven.
“Elements of Sonata Theory: Norms, Types, and Deformations in the Late-Eighteenth-Century Sonata” by James Hepokoski and Warren Darcy – “Elements of Sonata Theory: Norms, Types, and Deformations in the Late-Eighteenth-Century Sonata” by James Hepokoski and Warren Darcy is a comprehensive exploration of sonata form, examining its classical structures, variations, and the innovative deviations found in late 18th-century compositions. This scholarly work offers in-depth insights into the conventions and creative liberties of sonata writing during this pivotal era in music history.
“Essays in Musical Analysis” by Donald Tovey – “Essays in Musical Analysis” by Donald Tovey is a comprehensive collection of essays that delve into the intricate aspects of various musical compositions, offering insightful critiques and interpretations that highlight Tovey’s extensive knowledge and scholarly approach to classical music.
“Form in Music” by Wallace Berry – “Form in Music” by Wallace Berry offers a profound exploration of musical structure, employing Caplin’s systematic methods to enhance comprehension of the intricate architecture found in organ literature. It serves as an essential resource for those seeking to deepen their understanding of musical form and its applications.
“Form in Tonal Music” by Douglass Green – “Form in Tonal Music” by Douglass Green is a comprehensive guide that explores the structural aspects of Western tonal music, offering clear explanations and examples to help musicians and students understand the formal principles that underpin various musical compositions.
Counterpoint
“The Craft of Tonal Counterpoint” by Thomas Benjamin – “The Craft of Tonal Counterpoint” by Thomas Benjamin is an insightful guide that delves into the intricate techniques of 18th-century counterpoint, focusing on the works of composers like Johann Sebastian Bach. This book provides a comprehensive approach to understanding and mastering the art of melodic and harmonic interplay in classical music composition.
“Counterpoint in Composition” by Felix Salzer and Carl Schachter – This advanced text explores contrapuntal thinking essential for understanding Baroque and contemporary organ literature.
Contrapuntal understanding is fundamental to performing Baroque organ literature convincingly.
“Counterpoint: The Polyphonic Vocal Style of the Sixteenth Century” by Knud Jeppesen – Jeppesen’s work provides deeper insight into Renaissance polyphonic practice that influences organ literature.
“Direct Approach to Counterpoint in 16th Century Style” by Gustave Soderlund – This is a comprehensive guide that offers musicians and composers a clear methodology for mastering the intricate art of counterpoint as practiced during the Renaissance period. Soderlund’s book is praised for its practical exercises and in-depth analysis that help readers develop a deeper understanding of musical textures and harmony.
“A Practical Approach to 18th-Century Counterpoint” by Robert Gauldin – Gauldin’s text offers an in-depth exploration of the principles and techniques of counterpoint from the 18th century, tailored for both students and seasoned musicians. Through a practical approach, the book provides exercises and examples that enhance the understanding and application of counterpoint in musical compositions.
“The Study of Counterpoint” by Johann Joseph Fux – Fux’s species counterpoint method remains the foundation of contrapuntal study and understanding.
“The Study of Fugue” by Alfred Mann – “The Study of Fugue” by Alfred Mann is a comprehensive exploration of the historical development and theoretical underpinnings of the fugue, a complex and intricate form of classical music. The book delves into the evolution of this musical technique, examining notable compositions and the contributions of key composers throughout history.
Orchestration
Understanding orchestral principles helps organists make effective registration choices and arrangements.
“Principles of Orchestration” by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov – Rimsky-Korsakov’s classic work provides insights into tonal color and texture that apply to organ registration.
“The Study of Orchestration” by Samuel Adler – Adler’s comprehensive approach to orchestration offers practical knowledge for organists working with transcriptions and arrangements.
“The Technique of Orchestration” by Kent Kennan and Donald Grantham – This is a comprehensive guide that delves into the art of orchestrating music, offering insights into the effective use of various instruments in an ensemble. This book is an invaluable resource for musicians, composers, and arrangers who seek to enhance their understanding of orchestration techniques and improve their musical compositions.
Composition
Compositional understanding enhances interpretation and enables organists to create their own works.
“The Shaping Forces in Music: An Inquiry into the Nature of Harmony, Melody, Counterpoint and Form” by Ernst Toch – “The Shaping Forces in Music: An Inquiry into the Nature of Harmony, Melody, Counterpoint and Form” by Ernst Toch is an illuminating exploration of the fundamental elements that comprise music’s structure. By dissecting harmony, melody, counterpoint, and form, Toch offers profound insights that are invaluable to both performers and educators seeking to deepen their understanding of musical composition.
20th-Century Music Theory
Contemporary music theory knowledge enables organists to approach modern repertoire with confidence.
“Introduction to Post-Tonal Theory” by Joseph N. Straus – Straus provides accessible explanations of contemporary harmonic and structural concepts found in modern organ literature.
“Twentieth-Century Music: An Introduction” by Eric Salzman – Salzman’s overview of 20th-century compositional techniques helps organists understand and interpret contemporary works.
Music Appreciation
“The Rest Is Noise: Listening to the Twentieth Century” by Alex Ross – Ross’s engaging narrative brings 20th-century music to life, offering valuable insights into contemporary organ literature and compositional techniques that modern organists encounter. I enjoyed this book on my Audible subscription.
Liturgy
Liturgical knowledge enables organists to serve effectively in worship settings and understand the context of much organ literature.
“Te Deum: Church and Music” by Paul Westermeyer – “Te Deum: Church and Music” by Paul Westermeyer offers an insightful exploration into Christian worship practices, serving as an essential guide for organists working within diverse denominational contexts. This book delves into the historical and cultural influences on church music, providing readers with a deep understanding of its role in worship.
Building Your Professional Library
Building a comprehensive library takes time and consideration. Start with the foundational texts in areas most relevant to your immediate needs—whether that’s AGO certification preparation, liturgical service, or concert performance. As your career develops, you’ll find yourself returning to these resources again and again, discovering new insights with each reading.
The investment in quality books for organists pays dividends throughout your career. These texts serve not only as learning tools but as trusted references you’ll consult regularly. They represent the collective wisdom of centuries of organists, theorists, and musicians who have shaped our understanding of this magnificent instrument and its literature.
Consider your professional library as essential equipment—just as important as your organ shoes or metronome. The knowledge contained in these pages will inform every aspect of your musical development and enhance your ability to serve others through your artistry.
Thanks for reviewing these resources of recommended books for the organist library! I hope you find worthy additions for your bookshelf.