Is it smarter to focus on theory/complex pieces or to start preparing to play at church services/funerals?
As the title suggests, I'm in a bit of a predicament.
I am 18 years old and started taking organ lessons last October, with no prior experience with playing the piano. (I did take voice and flute lessons and learned basic music theory). My teacher is my local church musician, and I have a key to the church so I can practice whenever I want, usually 1-2 hours a day. She has now asked me what I would like to focus on over the next few months:
Option 1: I focus on playing chords, improving my work on the pedals and start learning complex music pieces written specifically for the organ.
Option 2: I focus on liturgy and choral music, so that I can play church services and funerals and earn a little money on the side.
Further context: I am starting a one year paid internship at the church on September first, and studying to become a church musician is one of the paths I am considering for my future. I may lack experience, but I've put a lot of effort into learning as quickly as possible, and have already played my first church service about two weeks ago. I take lessons weekly, with breaks whenever my teacher is on vacation/ when there's a holiday.
I'm unsure of how to proceed, especially when actually studying church music is an option I'm currently looking into. I'd love to read your opinion, because I currently don't really know which way might be the better option. Feel free to ask follow-up questions! Thanks in advance!! (: