Here we are again, at the beginning of the new liturgical year. It’s a good time to calm down and think of how we can improve the singing of our music ministries—and our communities.

If you’re really committed to good congregational singing, here’s a good Liturgical New Year’s Resolution:

            Every week, let the congregation sing something a cappella.

   “But they won’t sing,” you protest. “They have to have accompaniment.”

Or else “They have to have a cantor leading them.” Or “They won’t sing.”

Sure they will. Think about it. Maybe they’re not been singing because they find it easier to let the cantor and/or choir do it for them. Maybe they’re not singing because with accompaniment they can’t hear their own voices. I’m serious. Regular a cappella experience is one of the best ways to get the entire assembly singing with gusto. Start with what they know well: an acclamation, a well-loved hymn, a short ostinato. Give them a starting pitch and let them sing. Just do it. They may grumble to begin with, but it won’t take long before they realize how much such a cappella singing improves their skills—and start enjoying their own sound!

And there’s a corollary:  Every rehearsal, have your choir sing something a cappella. It doesn’t have to be the same thing every week: an acclamation, or a well-known hymn or a new piece they’re working on. Frankly, it’s the only way you can find out whether they own the music they’re singing or are just following along. They also may grumble to begin with, but it won’t take long before they realize how much such a cappella singing improves their skills—and start enjoying their own sound!

Yes, I did say that twice. On purpose.