The Jacobs Organ Academy for Pre-College Students and Adults offers year-round organ lessons taught by graduates of the Jacobs School of Music Organ Pedagogy course, supervised by Professor Janette Fishell. We admit all students aged ten and above who already read music (treble and bass clefs) and have completed some formal piano study. Each teacher will design a course of study tailored for the skill level and interests of their students.
Jacobs Organ Academy
Our Students
- Pre-college students who wish to supplement their piano study with some lessons on the pipe organ before committing to fifteen lessons are encouraged to sign up for Short Term Study and see where it takes them.
- Adult learners whose Bucket List includes “study, or become reacquainted with, the pipe organ” can study just for the joy of learning a new skill and making music on this wonderful instrument.
- Busy church musicians wanting a refresher course in service playing or a technical tune up can arrange lessons around their busy schedules.
- Accomplished pre-college students preparing for conservatory-level organ degree study will gain a firm technical and musical foundation that prepares them for auditions, competitions and performances.
Prerequisites and Required Materials
- Music skills: Basic music reading skills (both treble and bass clef) and some formal keyboard study (piano, harpsichord) are required.
- Shoes and Materials: All participants will be required to obtain suitable organ shoes (see organmastershoes.com) and purchase materials as assigned by the teacher.
- Organ Access: Students may work with their teacher to reserve a 30-60’ warm-up before their lesson on a pipe organ located in the Music Addition 3rd floor. It is highly recommended that all students work with their local church or local American Guild of Organists to locate an instrument for regular weekly practice
Academy faculty
Janette Fishell is Professor of Organ & Chair of the Organ Department at the Jacobs School of Music. Internationally recognized as a recitalist, teacher, and church musician, she received the 2014 Paul Creston Award, presented annually to “a distinguished artist who is a significant figure in church music”.
Both Hayden and Lois are second year graduate students in the Jacobs School of Music Organ Department. Each is also a veteran organ instructor in the Jacobs Organ Academy, having taught since the program began in the spring of 2024. Hayden and Lois are dedicated to working with each student to help them experience great musical and technical growth while enjoying the process of playing the King of Instruments.
If you have any questions about the program that are not answered on this page, please email Professor Janette Fishell at jfishell@iu.edu.
Schedule and Location
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| September 9 | Lessons Begin |
| December 6 | Lessons End |
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| January 27 | Lessons Begin |
| April 27 | Lessons End |
Lessons will take place in locations arranged by the teacher and student.
Private Lessons and Short-Term Study
Important notes: 1) All private lesson times are by arrangement with the students’ private teacher. 2) Click here to view our our private lesson syllabus and cancellation/makeup policies.
For younger children & beginners
60 -minute private lessons
- Instruction: 12 lessons per semester
- Tuition: $645
For more advanced students:
60-minute private lessons
- Instruction: 12 lessons per semester
- Tuition: $645
Lessons will take place in the Merrill Hall or Music Practice Building.
Short-term Study for those at any level
A flexible package of 8 private lessons scheduled throughout the semester with your teacher.
8 private 60-minute lessons: Tuition $344
In the event that our teachers are fully booked prospective students and/or parents will be notified.
Beginning Spring 2025, each level will be subject to a $50 non-refundable registration fee due at the time of registration that is credited towards the total tuition payment.
Newly enrolling students
Parents of pre-college students and adult learners should contact Professor Janette Fishell at jfishell@iu.edu regarding teacher availability before registering. Please include the following information:
- Prospective student’s name and age (pre-college only);
- Prior piano experience
- Does the student have access to an instrument to practice?
- Lesson availability
- Any other information about the student’s personality and learning style that may be considered pertinent for finding an instructor that will be a good fit
How to apply
- Eligibility: Accepting students of all ages, from youth to adult.
- Application process: To apply, complete the online registration.
- Payment: Accepting payment via credit card or check. For any questions regarding payment, contact IU Conferences at iuconfs@iu.edu.
- Cancellation Policy: Click here for our most up to date cancellation policy.
Once you have completed the previous steps, please submit the Participant Agreement Form