Various realms of culture are digitalized rapidly, and artists and art pedagogues are actively searching for digital solutions to create new methods and tools for creative work. Although everyone is not pleased with the speed of digitalization in culture, more people regard it as an opportunity rather than a threat. Virtual organs at the Oulu University of Applied Sciences (Oamk) exemplify a courageous innovation in music pedagogy. The organs are at the forefront of development, so they are of broader interest. The Dutch organ manufacturer Mixtuur has invested strongly in Oamk’s virtual organs, and the company sees that the development work taking place here benefits its operations more broadly.

Virtual instruments utilize computer software to create sound in one way or another. This can be done by a computer keyboard or MIDI controller, but also as an extension of a conventional instrument. A virtual organ is one of many virtual instruments. Ismo Hintsala, a senior lecturer of music at Oamk, defines it as a computer application that combines computer software with an electric instrument with keyboards, pedals, and drawknobs, resembling a traditional organ. The author interviewed Ismo Hintsala in October 2021.