Teachers

Perhaps more any other group, teachers play a vital role in introducing the next generation to organ and choral music.

The RCO aims to work with and to support teaching professionals, from primary school teachers looking to introduce our youngest children to this astonishing instrument (an experience which is rarely forgotten) to professional music teachers looking to broaden their students' musical experience and understanding. We also provide extensive resources and support for organists wishing to establish and grow their own teaching practice.

For teachers wishing to introduce children to the organ, or incorporate the organ into lessons:

• Introducing children to the organ:
  • The animated movie Dan and the Magic Musician is an excellent introduction to the pipe organ. Please sign in to iRCO (guest or member user) to view the animation, and to download the accompanying script for teachers, plus a follow-up PowerPoint.
  • For further background information, The American Guild of Organists (AGO) provides a detailed Young Person's Guide to the Organ here
• Organising a visit to an instrument:
  • In the first instance, we recommend identifying your local organists' association through the Incorporated Association of Organists.

For organists looking for advice, guidance and support on teaching the organ and building a teaching practice:

• Log in to iRCO for a wide range of videos, webinars, teaching materials and support resources to help you develop your teaching skills and business (please note, many of these resources are member only - click here for details on joining the RCO).
• College members can sign up to the RCO Register of Members via the website Members' Area, promoting their services via our Find a Teacher service.
• Members can also apply to become an RCO Accredited Teacher, becoming part of our recognised and supported network of professional organ teachers across the UK.
• RCO members are able to join the Musicians' Union at half the usual rate, as part of our professional support package for full- or part-time teachers and other professional musicians.