XX a. pirmos pusės Lietuvos katalikų bažnyčios vargonininkų draugijos

Abstract

The article presents data about the associations of the organists of the Roman Catholic Church in Lithuania, named after St. Gregory and St. Cecilia, which functioned in the country in the first half of the 20lh century. The article is based on the analysis of literature sources and official documents, and it presents a description of the structure of these associations, forms of their representation, trends of their activity, and the spirit inside the organisation. It also gives assessment to the activities of the associations of organists and priests. The analysis of facts leads to the conclusion that in the early 20lh century the organists' associations had all the characteristics typical of a social organisation, i.e. aims and objectives as well as their hierarchy and administration. The general aims reflected the shared aims of individual members. Membership in the associations helped their members to satisfy their social and economic needs as well as the need for training on-the-job. The associations used to initiate organists' opinion polls, provide in-service training, and apply to the hierarchs of the Catholic Church for remuneration and social guarantees. The associations published various publications and promoted Church and folk music. Low percentage of active members of the organists' associations as well as the stance of parish priests and dignitaries of the Church had a considerable impact on the work of these associations.