Abstract:
Music in the Afrikaans reformed churches has reached a cross-road. This is evident in the many articles written on the subject, workshops held on the issue and outcries for help from several organists in various congregations. Scholars all agree that research on the topic of responsible renewal in church music is necessary. Furthermore, it seems the organ is systematically being dismissed as a church instrument, especially in evening worship services. It seems the organ is (unjustly) thought of as an old fashioned instrument capable of playing only classical music and thus not able to cater for the musical needs of today’s postmodern churchgoer. This study aims to provide recommendations for the renewed usage of the organ in an aesthetic music environment that will assist churchgoers of various spirituality types to worship with conviction. This study is based on thorough research on three specific concepts: 1. Aesthetics: In order to use aesthetics as a valuable tool for music renewal, it must first be established that it is indeed a Biblical concept. Study into the concept of aesthetics in the Bible is undertaken. 2. Spirituality: Every person differs in his perception of worship and this is mainly determined by his spirituality type. The different musical preferences according to these spirituality types are investigated. 3. The organ: The organ has established itself as a versatile church instrument since the Middle Ages. It has adapted to the changing musical styles through the ages. It is reasoned that the church organ can still provide in the musical needs of all churchgoers today. This does not mean that the organ is elevated as the exclusive church instrument, but it is argued that the organ can successfully be used in conjunction with other instruments in worship today. After these three concepts are investigated, practical guidance is given in the usage of the organ in combination with other instruments according to the aesthetical requirements of the different spirituality types in today’s Afrikaans reformed worship service.
