6 WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR CHOIR PRACTICE.

Keeping your choir practice as fresh as possible can be challenging at times. Many of your choir members sacrifice their time after a long, hard day at work. They are looking for a well-planned rehearsal that is both challenging and rewarding. Following these simple suggestions will help you get the most out of every rehearsal.

How To Improve Your Choir Practice

Set a goal to work toward

The adage says “if you aim for nothing you will hit it every time.” Practicing without first knowing your expectations for your choir is a waste of everyone’s time. Clearly define your goals concerning what you expect your choir to accomplish during their practice. Consider choosing goals that involve tone, blend, rhythm accuracy, message, expression, and of a course deadline.

Present fresh music

One of the best ways to motivate your choir is by challenging them with fresh and exciting music. Over time using the “same old” music will dampen the enthusiasm of your choir. Attend music seminars, listen to recordings and join a choral club for new ideas.

Teach your choir

Do a lot of reading on ways to better your choir and teach them what you learn. From warm up exercises to diction, make the rehearsal worth the time they invest. If necessary, sign up for vocal lessons and you will have volumes to share with your choir. Your preparation is paramount.

Give the Lord some time

Do not be so immersed in the mechanics of singing that you forget to take time to explain the text of the song and its meaning. Your choir will sing with more feeling and enthusiasm when the message in the song is from the heart. Occasionally a short devotion by you or a choir member would be appropriate.

Be enthusiastic (keep it exciting)

Enthusiasm is contagious. Get your rest and be prepared for each choir practice. Your attitudes will set the pace for all to follow. Keep the rehearsal flowing. Don’t allow any one part or passage bog you down while others wait. Changing from song to song every 10-15 minutes is helpful. Remember, “variety is the spice of life.” Vary your chose of song so not to be singing always in 3/4 or in a melancholy style.

Start and end on time

It’s easy to delay starting choir practice while waiting for late arrivals. Choir members will make a greater effort to be on time if they know you will begin without them. Starting on time will convey to your choir members the message that their time is important to you. Ending on time will allow your choir to have a chance to fellowship with others before the service and feel a part of the congregation.

Adding these ideas to each choir practice will improve the time you spend with your choir.