I have been playing the organ off and on for 6 years. I took lessons formally in the beginning but, after a nearly 4 year break without playing, I have only recently begun attempting to pick it back up again. I am lucky enough to have found a church here in Orlando that let’s me practice to my heart’s content as well as play for English masses.
I only remember so much from my lessons in high school so I have been trying to coach myself further because I definitely have room to improve. Our new director of music for the diocese is an instructor and has mentioned interest in teaching me so I may take him up on the offer. ($60/hour is pretty steep though)
All in all, my main area of problem is with my feet. I have pretty decent coordination and i get the notes right most of the time espcially if I practice before-hand, but I know my technique is awful. I remember my former teacher always telling me “use the balls of your feet!” I’m pretty sure I’m not doing that.
I would recommend learning the organ to anyone interested. Along with choral and cantoral voices a superb sound can be achieved. The study of sacred music, also, opens up a world of reverence and majesty that is truly awe-gripping (and quite addictive).
