Via the Official Marlins Twitter Account
Want to take your musical talents to South Beach? Here is your chance! The Marlins are holding open auditions for the team's organist. If you are 18 or older and have your own keyboard, head on down to Miami and show them what you can do.
The organ is a near-dead instrument in Major League ballparks. While a magnificent instrument that earned its place by being able to be loud enough to fill large spaces such as churches or ballparks, the ability to amplify other instruments and recorded music has diffused the need. The Phillies, for example, have not used an organist since their long-time organist Paul Richardson passed away. They still use Richardson's recording of "Take Me Out To the Ballgame" each game during the seventh inning stretch but have not replaced him.
The one notable exception is Matthew Kaminski of the Atlanta Braves. Known to many as @BravesOrganist on Twitter, Kaminski uses a keen sense of humor to keep things relevant and exciting for fans. When the Phillies' Ryan Howard comes to the plate, Kaminski will play the theme music from NBC's "The Office", a reference to character Ryan Howard. A few years ago when a Chicago Cubs fan dumped beer on former Phillies outfielder Shane Victorino, Kaminski saw Victorino's at bat as an opportunity to play "99 Bottles of Beer On the Wall".
As for the Marlins, this could be an attempt to save money. Teams must pay royalties on the recorded music they play. Ever wonder why the Phillies play Cracker's "Happy Birthday" to me and not the Beatles' "Birthday?" The high cost. Cover music you must pay as well, though it would be cheaper. For years Apple did not have any Beatles music on I-Tunes while many cover bands' music was. Having the organist dip into some public domain music could fill time without paying any royalties. Plus, being 18 or older, maybe they'll get a young person on the cheap.
So, bring your keyboard to Marlins Stadium – they won't let you play theirs – and maybe you could be the next person to play to an empty stadium.
