When conducting the hymns, what makes for a solid start?
How can you be sure you've got the congregation's attention?
Even with the least inspired start, the congregation usually finds its way a few bars in.
But it's nice to have a crisp, clean, confident start to the hymn singing.
How can you, as the music leader...
...not the chorister...
...choristers are adolescent sopranos in an Anglican church choir...
...begin with precision and clarity?
Well, you need look no further than the esteemed butler of Downton Abbey for the answer.
When Mr. Carson gave the downbeat to kick off lady Rose's ball in season 4, episode 9 of Downton Abbey...
...I'm not ashamed to admit how much I love this show...
...he gave 3 great tips to all music leaders of congregational music.
Hopefully you've been practicing the "pendulum in the mirror" technique I shared last week (here's a link in case you missed it).
Keep that going.
It never becomes redundant.
And it's the perfect preparation for the 2nd and 3rd of Mr. Carson's excellent tips.
But first, watch carefully what Mr. Carson does to prepare, in this case, his string players.
This is the perfect way to get your congregation ready too.
It all comes down to a "call to attention" with 2 sweeps of his bushy eyebrows and a strategic positioning of the hands.
With that, the players, or in your case, the congregational singers, will be ready to receive your instructions, in your time, with the emotional energy you put into the next split-second movements.
All in a few bushy eyebrows and hand positions.
Take a look...
Did you see it?
First, he made clear eye contact with the musicians and with a swift rise and fall of his eyebrows, he communicated... "it's time to make some music."
Then, he raised both hands and returned his voluminous brows to the "up and ready" position.
Excellent work, Mr. Carson!
A whole lot happens with purposeful eye contact, eyebrows, and subtle hand positioning, even when you feel far removed from you congregation up on the stand.
But it works, every time.
So, I recommend you add this to your practice routine.
Try some purposeful eye contact with your kids, or pets.
See how much more they pay attention to you with some strategic eyebrow movements.
And then come back tomorrow for the 2nd of Mr. Carson's regal conducting tips.
Have a good one!
Doug