CHOIR ORGAN Meaning and
Definition
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A choir organ is a versatile musical instrument, typically found in churches and other places of worship, that is specifically designed to accompany and support choral singing. It is a pipe organ that is smaller in size and has a more delicate and refined sound compared to the larger main organ (also known as the "great organ"). The purpose of the choir organ is to provide musical accompaniment for the choir and enhance their singing during religious services and performances.
Generally, a choir organ is positioned closer to the choir stalls or chancel in the church, allowing for better coordination between the organist, conductor, and singers. It is built with a smaller number of stops, or rows of pipes, which can be individually controlled to produce a wide range of sounds and timbres. The stops can include different types of flutes, strings, reeds, and principals, as well as mixtures and mutations for added tonal variety.
Due to its proximity to the choir, a choir organ is often played by a second organist, while the main organist focuses on the larger instrument. This allows for more precise dynamic control and enables the choir organist to follow the choir's phrasing and breathing. The sound of a choir organ is usually more gentle and delicate, complementing the choral singing without overpowering the voices.
In summary, a choir organ is a smaller pipe organ found in churches, primarily used to accompany and support choral singing by providing delicate and refined musical accompaniment. It is positioned closer to the choir and offers a wide range of tonal possibilities through its individual stop controls.
Common Misspellings for CHOIR ORGAN
- xhoir organ
- vhoir organ
- fhoir organ
- dhoir organ
- cgoir organ
- cboir organ
- cnoir organ
- cjoir organ
- cuoir organ
- cyoir organ
- chiir organ
- chkir organ
- chlir organ
- chpir organ
- ch0ir organ
- ch9ir organ
- chour organ
- chojr organ
- chokr organ
- choor organ
Etymology of CHOIR ORGAN
The word "choir organ" is a compound noun consisting of two separate words: "choir" and "organ".
The word "choir" originated from the Old French word "ch(e)oir", which came from the Latin word "chorus". In Latin, "chorus" referred to a group of singers or dancers performing together. Over time, "choir" specifically came to refer to a group of singers, particularly those who sing religious or ceremonial music.
The word "organ" has a slightly more complex etymology. It can be traced back to the Greek word "organon", which originally referred to a tool or instrument. In the context of music, "organon" referred to an instrument that produced sound by mechanical means, such as pipes, reeds, or strings. This term was then borrowed into Latin as "organum", which later evolved into "organ" in Old English.
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