Specifications

RENAISSANCE 450 SECTION IV
23.
TRANSPOSER
Vast computer capabilities make it possible to perform the sometimes difficult task of
transposing, while allowing the organist to play in the notated key. Operation of the
Transposer is controlled by the Transposer knob, found inside the Console
Controller™ drawer. Neutral (no transposition) position for the knob is marked “!.”
To shift the music to a higher key, rotate the knob counter-clockwise. The key can be
raised a maximum of five half-steps. To shift to a lower key, rotate the Transposer
knob clockwise from “!.” The key can be lowered a total of seven half-steps. A RED
INDICATOR LIGHT COMES ON WHENEVER THE TRANSPOSER KNOB IS MOVED
FROM THE NEUTRAL (“!”) POSITION. This is to warn the organist that the organ is
not ready to play in the same key as when in the Neutral position. This is another
reason it is a good habit to operate the instrument with the Console Controller
™
drawer open.
WHY TRANSPOSE?
1. Because the range of a song will not always suit the vocal range of a particular
singer. By adjusting the Transposer, the piece can be sung more comfortably
and effectively.
2. Because some instruments are non-concert pitch. A trumpet in B
b
, for
example, can play the same music as the organist, if the Transposer knob is set
two half-steps lower.
3. Because hymn singing can sometimes be improved by a more favorable key
selection. Hymn singing can also be enhanced by playing the hymn in its
original key, and then playing a short modulation at the end of the stanza that
leads into the key one-half step above the stanza key just completed. If the
hymn is already in a fairly high key, it may be preferable to play the first few
stanzas with the Transposer pitch lowered one-half or even one whole step,
then modulate up to the original key for the final stanza.