While cathedrals and large churches usually have fully adjustable organ benches, many smaller churches around the UK have a bench of fixed height: suitable for the average man but too high for the average woman and young people beginning to learn the organ.
The Society of Women Organists has launched the Adjustable Benches Campaign to draw attention to the struggle for many people to reach the pedals on a non-adjustable bench, and suggest low-cost solutions. Their ideal is that the organ in every public venue suits people of all heights.
More on this project from the Society of Women Organists’ website, including a page of bench solutions with advice for churches and their organists.
feature image courtesy of the Society of Women Organists
This makes a lot of sense. The bench height is very important. When it’s too high, it’s hard to play toe-heel