The Practice of Organ Improvisation, A Method Book
Gebhard Hans

The present method book will hopefully be usefull to students and professional organists in pointing the way to the numerous possibilities of improvising. A wealth of material is presented herein, begining with fundamental exercises in harmonizing simple chorale melodies and progressing to the improvisation of larger musical forms. In order to use the manual succesfully, a working knowledge if the basics if music theory and functional harmony are presupposed. Additionally, a moderate technical ability is required first working out the first sections of the method, while the larger forms require advanced skills. According to the interest of the player, it is possible to commence at several different places in the book.

Lista utworów:
The Practice of Organ Improvisation, A Method Book (Gebhard Hans)

Spis treści:
The harmonic setting
The principle triads
The secondary triads and the 6/5 chord on the subdominant
The modulation
The nonharmonic tones (appogiaturas, passing notes, cambiatas, anticipations)
Technique of development
The coloring of the melody
The art of inventing motifs (part I)
Chromaticism
Chorale prelude - Ritornello - Ostinato
More recent stylistic devices in harmony and rhythm
The linear setting
Introduction to the linear two-part setting
Voice-leading in fast motion
Rhythmic formation of the accompanying voice
Formation of sequences
The art of inventing motifs (part II)
The three-part setting
Fugati and canon technique
The trio with voices in different motion
Lerge forms
Forms of variations
The toccata
The concerto
The fugue
The large symphonic form
Appendix
List of melodies referred to in the exercises