Offertory hymn continuation techniques

[Krummhorn]

Lars - thanks for the clarification! I know what you mean about "stupid pew cushions..." the congregation must learn to put up with some pain, if they want gain, eh? Get rid of 'em (the cushions that is).

Amen to that ...

Hi all

Thanks for these - especially the sound files - fantastic!

how exactly do you lead in from the last chord of the last verse? I've heard a few organists go into unison and then after that lead in, they begin their extemporisation.

Can anyone advise on the techniques for this?

thanks

For my congregation, I need to make the transition clear that we are not starting an extra verse ... it's like herding cats sometimes.

Although it's extremely rare (in my church) to follow a hymn with an extemporization or interlude, when it does happen, I will hold an open fifth (sometimes adding a fourth as well) with the left hand (8' foundations stops), and then employ open fourths in the right hand (the tune is the upper note and the fourth is below).

Interestingly enough, this happened last night for our Holy Thursday service where the congregation sang a hymn that lead into the foot washing segment.

As you may have guessed, I love the sound of open fourths ... makes for a very interesting sound when ending an improv in F major, with a G and C in the right hand, ending without resolving to the major chord. Perks peoples eyes and ears - something quite different waiting on the edge of their seats for the chord to resolve, and when it doesn't, even more unique.

Other times, I will resolve the chord, or for a little more spice, add the fifth and third (from the bottom: F, G, A, C) in an F major ending.

All it takes is some experimentation in your practice sessions, then employ some of those during the service.