Torch, Spring 1984

There are reasons why a church is a singing church - it doesn ' t just happen . I would like to list some of those reasons; then you can evaluate your own local situation to see if, in fact, you have a singing church and, if not, how to grow one. Let me list what I believe to be some necessary ingredients in order to grow a singing church. 1. First and foremost is a dynamic song service, both in the morning worship and evening praise services. 2. Enthusiastic singing in the Sunday school hour should be encouraged. Always use a piano and the best song leader available. Make it fun for boys and girls of all ages. 3 . Song leading classes should be taught by the music director or an invited guest for a "Singing Church" Monday night "how-to" session. 4 . Music sung in the main services should be in a key that will allow the men to sing melody (because 75% of them will) , and low enough so that the teen fellows won't feel foolish singing the high notes (and not sing at all) . 5. We do what we like to do ; we like to do what we know how to do. Graded choirs for every level will teach your people how to do it. Here are some suggestions for graded choirs: Hl a. Cherubs - preschool , 4 and 5 years old b. Primary choir - grades 1 to 3 c. Junior choir - grades 4 to 6 or children's choir if you do not have personnel , but be aware that the age span will present problems. d. Junior high choir - possibly a handbell choir because of voice changes e. Teen singers (not choir), ensemble, or a small group will appeal to the teens rather than the traditional choir (too much like adults). If you lack leadership, you could combine the junior high and senior high, but there are problems with this kind of setup also. f. College ensemble (not choir) - may be large but should not resemble the adult choir and should be used on the platform or stairs for an entirely different look than the normal. g . Adult or Sanctuary choir- should be given the most time and attention since they will be singing more frequently than any group . This can be made up of adults, college-age young people, and possibly faithful, selected teens. h . Periodic choirs, such as: (1) All male volunteer choir. This group sings twice a year on a Sunday night with three weeks of practice, thirty minutes before three evening services. Try to fill your choir loft with as many men as possible . Have volun– teers sing the melody and choir men sing the harmony . Use simple two- or three-part famil– iar music. The song title can be part of the re– cruitment announcement. (2) Women's choir. Recruit ladies from your church to sing a few times a year only. Use ladies' trio music. They might like it and stay on in the choir. (3) Volunteer choir for evening service. Try to get