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A balanced pedal in an organ console is a foot-operated control that is pivoted to maintain its position once moved. Here are the key points about balanced pedals:
- Function: The balanced pedal allows the organist to control the shutters of the chambers where the organ pipes are located. These shutters regulate the volume and timbre of the sound produced by the pipes.
- Operation: The pedal is designed to stay in any position it is moved to, providing precise control over the shutters. This feature enables the organist to achieve gradual changes in volume and sound.
- Additional Use: Besides controlling the shutters, the balanced pedal can also be used to bring in all the stops of the organ in a graded series. Stops are mechanisms that control the flow of air to the pipes, allowing different sets of pipes (or ranks) to be activated or deactivated.
- Design: The balanced pedal is typically a plate that the organist presses with their foot. Its pivoting mechanism ensures smooth and stable operation, crucial for dynamic musical expression.
- Importance: The balanced pedal is essential for creating expressive performances on the organ. It allows the organist to manage the instrument’s dynamic range and tonal color effectively, enhancing the musical experience.
Example:
In a pipe organ, the balanced pedal might be used during a crescendo passage, where the organist gradually increases the volume by slowly opening the shutters, and vice versa for a decrescendo.
In summary, the balanced pedal is a crucial component in organ playing, providing the organist with the ability to finely control the volume and tonal quality of the organ through the precise adjustment of the shutters and stops.
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