Advantages of Singing in the Choir

             It is a given that one does not sing in a choir for material gain.  More often than not, in fact, it actually costs to sing in a choir.  Gas for the car to come to rehearsal.  Sometimes extra rehearsals.  One is more likely to eat out, especially working folks, on rehearsal days.  Sometimes choir members have to buy special outfits, or parts thereof.  Then, there are the non-financial costs.  You get tired.  Sometimes you’re already tired.  You must get to church on Sundays earlier than anyone else.  “Thank Yous” can be few, and far, between.  Sometimes you are subjected to a directorial tantrum.

            But then, there are certain very real advantages to singing in choir.  And I would dare say that all choir singers have experienced most, if not all, of them.

            Singing is good for your health.  Singers breathe deeper, more often, and more correctly than nearly anyone else.  Your mind focuses and your eyes are busy transmitting to your brain both the information on the page and the communication from the conductor.  Singers who maintain proper posture and breathing are doing their bodies (and voices) a big favor.

            Our spirits grow from singing in the choir.  Every song has a distinct Christian message.  Some are even direct quotes from Scripture.  Singing in the choir is a wonderful way to grow closer to God.

            Choir singers get to cultivate an intimate circle of friends.  Relationships are built.  We become family!  The choir family supports and prays for each other, and we get to know each other through our ministry together on a wonderfully deep level.

            And where else can you get free musical instruction?  Granted, we are not a college class, but if you go home without having learned something, then something was amiss at choir.

            Ask any choir member what makes him/her remain in the choir ministry. Most likely, most of them will say, "It's a great way to serve the Lord, singing His praise while blessing others at the same time” - - or something like that.  “Sing to Him a new song; play skillfully with shouts of joy,” says Psalm 33:3.  Why not begin talking to God right now and see if He want you to sing in a choir!

Steve Hester
Director of Music Ministries

Too many, Lord, abuse Thy grace In this licentious day, And while they boast they see Thy face, They turn their own away. -William Cowper (1731-1800)