Last week I said, “Don’t throw accompaniment books away!” But what about deadwood—the stuff that multiplies when you’re not looking at it and clutters up your files and shelves?

As you go through the files, ask yourself some questions. A longtime choir member can help with the “history” part of this task, especially if you’re new to the parish and don’t yet have a solid grasp on their repertoire.

• How long has it been since we sang this? Are we ever going to use it again? It is too high? Too highbrow? Too lowbrow? Too hard? Too dippy? Just not suitable for this community at this time? Keep one copy of the octavo or legal copy or original songbook. Put that copy in a file (or drawer) marked INACTIVE. Toss the others in the recycling bin.
  
  
• Are there illegal copies in the files? Count them, note how many copies there were and jot the number down on the one copy you’ll keep. Put it in a file marked ILLEGAL. Toss the rest. (If you’re relatively new to the parish, you’re more likely to find these left over from an earlier, less conscientious director. You, of course, are not going to make any illegal copies, are you? No, certainly not.)
  
  
• It’s a good idea to keep a list of what you use for in each liturgy, including the date, source of the music, whether it’s active or inactive, and any pertinent performance notes. An Excel spreadsheet list works well for me, but a plain ol’ index card file will work too. Just keep it up to date! It really doesn’t take that much time, and you might even be able to find a volunteer librarian to do this part.

Why is this kind of record-keeping so valuable? Because it’s a professional responsibility: when you leave, your successor will be able to find the active music, and can tell from your list what the community already knows and loves. It’s a last service you will give the community.