[HANASHIR:1393] Re: Yamim Noraim Music Survey

[Abby and Michael Gostein <gostein...>]

Rachelle and all,
I've had that experience of directing a "sing along with us" choir as a
one-time experiment which may become a more regular experience in the
spring.  The event was a Shabbat Shirah at which I introduced some new
tunes, including some of my own singable liturgical settings. The 11-person
choir was sometimes on the bimah with me, certain sections helping the
congregation to hold various simple melodies that I taught during the course
of the service, and others singing various harmonies around the main
melodies.  Sometimes the choir was dispersed throughout the congregation,
helping me lead the melodies from their seats by providing strong voices and
ruach next to other congregants.  It made for a wonderful singing service
with wonderful participation all around.  It was a lot of hard work, and a
lot of fun!
Abby Gostein


At 08:03 PM 10/1/98, you wrote:
>I am finding this discussion fascinating.  Soon I will be meeting with the
>rabbi to discuss the possibility of leading a volunteer choir.  (Presently
>there is a professional organist and professional choir.) The only way I
>would want to do this is if I could somehow manage to encourage congregants
>to sing along.  I am hoping that by choosing arrangements in singable keys
>and in a less classical style that people might be more encouraged.  Does
>anyone have the experience of directing or hearing a choir which somehow
>facilitated the participation?
>
>
>Rachelle
>
>
>
>Rachelle Mingail Shubert
>
>CONCERTS 
>    CLASSES 
>         CONSULTING
>
>shubert (at) total(dot)net
>
>
>