5 New Tips for a Spirit Filled Choir Rehearsal

A choir rehearsal that is successful should allow members to leave inspired, uplifted and feeling positive about the time they have spent there. But, it is important to know that this can not be achieved by mere talent alone. Here are some helpful tips to ensure that your rehearsal is not just a musically productive one, but a Spirit filled one as well.

Check Egos at the Door

The choir rehearsal setting is no time for directors, musicians or singers to think more highly of themselves than they ought. No matter how gifted you are, you should never approach the rehearsal in a way that makes others inferior to you. This is the quickest way to lose the interest and the respect of others. Rather it should be cooperative rehearsal environment. Remember that everyone may not learn or comprehend at the same pace, and those with special talents should take even greater responsibility to help improve those around you. 

Pray 

It may sound cliche’, but you should never underestimate the power of prayer. Many people come into the rehearsal setting with the cares and troubles of their day. Even though they may not say it, people have a number of various issues that weigh on them when they show up. Some can be tired, sad, overworked just generally distracted. Intentional time dedicated to prayer before starting the rehearsal can often times be just what they need to bring all hearts, minds and spirits into focus. Also remember that no one is good enough to operate in ministry based on your talent alone. We should ask the Holy Spirit to provide help, guidance and power to make up for our shortfalls. 

Provide a Cool and Comfortable Environment

Always make sure that you spend enough time prior to rehearsal to ensure that the room temperature is cool and comfortable for learning during extended periods of time. Make sure there is enough seating for all choir members and musicians. If you cannot provide water for everyone, encourage them to bring their own, so that they can stay hydrated. If you fail to do this you may run the risk of fatigue and short attention spans from choir members. This will ultimately work against the rehearsal being as productive as possible. 

Make Learning Fun

Light humor and fun facts help to make the learning experience easier and more of a pleasure to all. People will respond better to a polite and pleasant attitude from the director, rather than an ugly one. Of course there will be times when directors may become a bit frustrated during certain parts of the teaching process. Do not berate, yell or become angry at choir members during these times. Do not use smart remarks or throw shade. Do your best to keep your your cool. If you do happen to get a bit frustrated, quickly followup with a funny line or a joke  and a smile so that they don’t hold it against you. 

Prayer Requests and Praise Reports

Most rehearsals are usually spent with directors doing all of the talking and teaching. It is important to remember that choir rehearsals should provide members more than just a time to learn and practice music. it should also serve as a time to foster fellowship and community among one another. It is good for people to know that in their choir they have an extended family of faith. It is helpful for them to know that they have others who will pray with them and for them in difficult times, as well as people who will rejoice and celebrate with them during times of great joy. This brief moment at the end of rehearsals will  give members a moment to express themselves and offer encouragement to each other. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Minister Corey-Patrick Edwards is the Founder/ Executive Director of the Florida Fellowship Super Choir, and the CEO of COED Ministries. His experience and expertise has taken him across the country, teaching and training in the areas of worship and music ministry.