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MONTHLY MUSICAL OFFERING: MINUET

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Graduation Season Repertoire Tip: Boëllmann’s “Minuet” from Suite Gothique

Graduation season is here, and additional music is often needed for these special ceremonies. Sometimes an organist may be called upon to play for a graduation when the event is held at a private school, in a town hall auditorium, or another public space with an organ.

Marches and stately pieces are always good selections for these occasions, but it can be difficult for a busy organist to learn new repertoire for a single event.

One excellent option is the “Minuet” movement from Suite Gothique by Léon Boëllmann. Many organists learn this work as students, and it can be a very effective piece for ceremonies such as graduations or spring concerts.

This recording was made on a Rodgers Inspire 352. The Inspire Series is a strong option for schools thanks to its compact size and wide range of features, many of which are typically found on larger models.

Three Tips for Using This Music

1. Keep the Waltz Feel Moving

The Minuet is in 3/4 time, so it is important to maintain the feel of a strong downbeat followed by two slightly lighter beats in every measure. This helps move the tempo forward and keeps the piece feeling light, even when the registration becomes larger.

2. Shape the Echoes Between Divisions

The piece is structured so that many phrases are repeated or echoed between the Great and Swell divisions. Use this to your advantage by creating more tender moments on the Swell and greater excitement on the Great.

3. Build to a Strong Final Entrance

The final entrance of the Great division calls for a fuller registration. This is the moment to bring in the pedal reeds and 32-foot stops, if they are available, to give the ending the weight and grandeur it deserves.

Bonus Tip

Rodgers organs include a record and playback feature. This can be especially useful if an organ is being set up temporarily in an event space. An organist can record themselves playing the music, then play it back while listening from the audience’s position. From there, tempos, phrasing, and registration can be adjusted as needed before the final performance.

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