Salesmanship is a fine art. Some things have to be advertised. Some articles must be demonstrated. And others sell themselves. In an evangelistic program we must use every method within our grasp to convince the audience that they came to the auditorium not only to look on but to take part in a very definite way. The song service is the first part of the program in which all can take part, and it is up to the song leader to assure them that they want to join in. Here are a few methods of selling a very worth-while product—audience participation in the song service :
I. Convince the audience that they are part of your program. Most people like to sing but are shy until they can sing in the company of others.
2. Smile at them. If they don't smile back, use one of those clever poems about smiles, or sing the chorus, "You can smile."
3. Compliment their singing. Even if it is not pleasing to your ears, someone likes it. Especially if there are many empty seats, tell those that are present that they are doing fine. I often tell them to "sing enough to make up for those empty chairs," and instantly they double their efforts.
4. Set a goal for yourself to make everyone sing. Then watch how the people respond to this idea, or to that tactic, and usethe approach that brings results. Move around., Don't be glued to one spot on the platform. Let people know you are alive and enjoying yourself, and they will follow suit.
II. Be positive in actions, singing, and speaking.
I. You may not have the best voice for song leading—but don't apologize. As long as you do your best and put your soul into your job, there will be no mental reservations as to your ability.
2. Act as if it is a pleasure for you to sing, then people will be more likely to gain enjoyment from it.
3. Teach them to follow you—then lead. Most congregations will go their own way, unless they have a leader. Once they catch the idea that you intend to lead them in a positive way, they fall right into line immediately. A good solid touch on the part of the pianist is helpful.
III. Plan your program. It is much easier for you to work up your own enthusiasm, and that of the audience also, if there is a smooth-working, planned song service.
1. Know how much time you have. It is always well to plan a little more than you will need, just in case the ministers are late in coming in. But don't think you must use everything on your program, and thus take time that belongs to the evening sermon.
2. Keep the program moving. It is not conducive to enthusiastic audience participation when the song leader has to stop and grope for words, or to look for another song to sing. Talk between songs and during the piano introductions, and try to fill up every dead spot with something alive and inviting. At first you may have to write out a sentence or two to bridge the gap smoothly between one song and the next. Sometimes, between stanzas, it is helpful to encourage the audience to sing. Always feel free to talk, and keep your attention focused on the song.
3. Write out an outline of the program. On small cards you can put down the number, names of songs, and the order. The pianist and any other helpers always appreciate the courtesy of receiving an advance copy of the program for the evening. If it is not written down, you yourself might even forget what you have planned to do.
4. If there is to be special music, the participants should know when to come in, so there will be no waiting. It is best for them to be in position and ready to start as soon as you have announced the number. Then there is no long and embarrassing delay.
IV. Do something different. Everyone likes a change once in a while, and you are more likely to hold the attention by continually trying new ideas. At the same time hold on to those that "go over" well.
1. Teach new songs. Remember that "The Old Rugged Cross" was new once.
2. One song leader I know ,uses a combination of well-known songs. Without using books, he progresses from one song to another (all in the same key) using only one stanza or chorus of each.
3. If the chorus of a song goes well, try repeating it softly.
4. On most songs you can have the ladies sing a soprano-alto duet.
5. Divide your audience into two choirs. This plan has almost limitless possibilities, both in combinations and in songs : Men and women. Balcony and main auditorium. Choir and audience. Young people and older ones. Try this with : "Revive Us Again" ; "Redeemed" ; "Take the Name of Jesus With You"; "Power in the Blood."
6. Sing one stanza of a song a cappella.
7. Have the children sing a chorus.
8. Lead the choir in a stanza.
9. Hum a part of a song.
10. If the pianist or organist is skillful at such things, it is interesting to have a part of a song as an instrumental solo, for variation.
11. Some songs have a natural climax on a high note. It is thrilling to build up to one of these high notes, and make your audience hold it out—loud and clear. Example : "like the sea billows ROLL" (Since Jesus Came Into My HEART).
12. Tell the story of a song. This can be made a popular feature to be presented on certain nights only. The audience will look forward to it.
(To be continued in a later issue)
