How to Direct a Gospel Choir

Gospel choirs sing music that has the potential to lift spirits and change lives. The chilling harmonies and powerful solos performed by these choirs can attract a wide range of music lovers. If you enjoy gospel music and posses a willingness to lead others, becoming a choir director can allow you to gain a deeper appreciation for the music. Although being responsible for the development of a gospel choir can be difficult, the rewards of making inspirational music are well worth the work.

Instructions

1. Make your expectations known to prevent misunderstandings. Establishing your requests early can assert your authority without facing opposition from choir members and musicians. Set a firm practice schedule, and encourage choir members to keep a positive attitude throughout all meetings. Relay your definitions of quality practices and performances. Describe your creative vision while requesting input to initialize your goals.

2. Promote unity among the different vocal sections. Discord can be heard when the choir sings, so it's important to foster harmonious feelings. Avoid allegations that you favor a particular section by devoting equal time to developing each section. Choose a variety of songs that feature different vocal arrangements to ensure each section has a chance to occasionally sing the melody vocals. Section members can quickly become frustrated when they are always asked to provide harmony vocals.

3. Identify and develop soloists. Although increased focus is on the group dynamic, adding strong solos can increase the depth of songs. Ask for volunteers and request different choir members to perform solos. Base your final decisions on the skills and attitude of the vocalists. Keep the lyrics and intended audience response in mind as you weigh your options. Avoid picking the same people repeatedly as this can also be a source of group discord.

4. Vary your song selections to appeal to the most people. Gospel music features many subsections, including urban contemporary, bluegrass and progressive southern styles. Understand that the choir as well as the audience must feel connected to the lyrics to truly appreciate the intended message. Gathering suggestions from choir members promotes active participation. It also makes it more likely that songs will be given a passionate delivery.

5. Teach proper singing techniques. Relay the importance of vocal preparation and obedience during every practice. Stress the correlation between effective practicing and stellar performances. Keep the choir on one accord by using standard hand gestures and cues.

Tips & Warnings

• Breathe new life into older hymns and spirituals by modifying the tempo and delivery style. Directing a gospel choir can be difficult as you attempt to bring all members into your vision.

• Avoid belittling singers during practice. This could lead to negative feelings and ultimately destroy the choir.

References

• Start a Choir
• Song Select Lyrics

Resources

• Worship Music