The Organist as a Church Employee
Prof. Dr. Andreas Marti
(«Es orgelt» is a German expression that literally means «it organs». It
is used approximately in the sense «the organ is played».)
«It organs» –
apparently organ music is perceived as impersonal. Behind this expression
lurks the dilemma between functionality and autonomy, between the
demands of the liturgy and those of the artist.
First functionality has to be defined. Once functionality is grasped in a
comprehensive fashion, it is seen to go beyond technical competence and
in fact to require artistic autonomy. In this way, the apparent dilemma becomes
a fascinating cooperation.