Hammond Technique and Methods: Music Written for the Hammond Organ

Abstract

The following thesis is made up of four original compositions written between February and September of 2012, with emphasis on the Hammond Organ in the context of jazz and rhythm and blues ensembles. The pieces of music were designed to feature the organ as the lead instrument in order to highlight various playing techniques that are specific to the Hammond Organ within these genres. In addition to my own music and an explanation and analysis of my work, the writing will provide a historical overview of organists I have chosen to highlight as influences to provide a framework for each piece of music. In order to aid this discussion of what has been an under-theorized instrument and performance tradition, I have sought out active contemporary organists to discuss their creative practices on the Hammond, as well as their insight into the notable organists of the past. Finally, of particular interest to me in this thesis is the emphasis on the Hammond Organ as an electric instrument, and the unique musical textures that are possible through the exploitation of the multiple controls that are integral to the instrument's construction. An audio recording of each piece accompanies the scores that are included.