Sources of Error
Sometimes singings experience moments where good ensemble is lost, or even the occasional total breakdown. These normally occur at specific moments:
- The initiation of a song that begins with a musical upbeat. The Sacred Harp norm is to start singing the moment the leader moves his hand. To give a measure of silent beats, as orchestral or choral conductors often do, is not standard. Beginning leaders often have trouble starting out with an upbeat motion.
- The leader picks a tempo so unexpected that a beat of two is mistaken for a beat of four, or vice versa. This may occur with leaders who lack the skill of mentally envisioning the tempo before starting.
- Choice points in the music, notably whether a repeat is to be taken, or which verses to sing. Leaders often announce their intentions verbally in advance.
Read more about this topic: Leading Sacred Harp Music
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