I am a pianist who is interested in learning to play the organ. I want to purchase a used organ but need more information. Is there a book written about organs that is similar to Larry Fine's "The Piano Book"? Also any recommendations for me about used organs and what I should be looking for in my search.

What type of music are interested in playing? It will determine the criteria for the organ.

I am interested in playing classical music and church music (i.e., hymns, choral accompaniments). I had 2 semesters of organ lessons in college (many years ago), but haven't played the organ since. I will need to take lessons, but think I need an instrument in my house for practice.

Hi Gray,

I really like the Allen organ and I have seen some very good deals on used ones that would be great for home use. I used to own a Wurlitzer Model 4573 that was a very nice practice instrument for my home and served me well for years until I donated it to a church. If you have a local Allen or Rodgers dealer, perhaps he/she could arrange for you to go to some local churches and try out some of their recent installations.

I'm trying to find an organ for our church and it's proving to be very different from piano shopping. Good luck with your organ study and I hope this helps.

Lyn B.

Lyn,

Thanks for the advice. I have located a used Allen and a used Rodgers organ (both 25-30 years old). I'm not sure what problems I should be on the look-out for with an older organ, but I assume that you need to get a technician to look at it just like a piano.

-Gray