Assignment 20- Andrew Rogers

How to Lead Songs Acapella

I've been Song leading for about 5-6 years now in the main worship service at my congregation. Song leading acapella is one of those actions that is much easier said than done, relatively speaking. It depends mostly on three things some of which overarch with many other types of musical expression. Tempo, pitch, and knowledge of the song. First, is the most important part, your own knowledge of the song. If you can't sing the song yourself there is no way that you can lead other people in the same song. Second, once you have your song picked out, pitching the song is the next step.  Pitching a song is crucial to good song leading. It is recommended to pitch the song on key but you can vary the starting note by a half-step to a full step, for instance lowering a G to an F sharp or F. Tempo is third. You are in a constant battle with the rest of the congregation, fighting them from slowing down.  You have to constantly adjust to make sure time stays steady. These three things are the basis of song leading properly, however, it takes time and practice to become more skilled in this task.