SONG LEADER

Responsibilities

The tradition of fraternity singing has suffered in most fraternity chapters in recent years. A chapter's unity, pride, and brotherhood can be enhanced when its members join in song. It is rare that a visiting girlfriend, mother, prospective member, or chapter friend is not impressed when its members at a gathering spontaneously sing a FarmHouse song. Dinners are opportunities for this. Start the meal with one, end with a song of the Fraternity, and throw a few in the middle if the mood is right. The Song Leader should:

Be responsible for organizing singing at meals, firesides, serenades, and other events.

Arrange for song practices and direct the singing.

Stimulate the chapter's interest in singing.

Assist in the formation of quartets and combos.

Encourage member participation in campus musical activities.

Work with the new member class song leader to ensure that all new members are
     learning the songs properly.

Plan and direct at least one serenade per school year that utilizes the entire chapter.

Create and record new songs.

The Song Leader needs to keep this spirit alive at the chapter and encourage brothers to sing at appropriate times. The Song Leader should instruct members of the chapter in learning new songs and get the chapter to practice at least one song at chapter meetings every week. Share recordings of the FarmHouse songs with the members of the chapter. Make sure that singing is given its proper due during the new member education program. With this in mind, have fun singing these, and pass them to the next generation with pride.

How to Lead Songs

The name of the song:   Announce each song clearly and name the tune.

The pitch or key: Sing a few notes to give the pitch. Be sure the whole group has it. If you
     are too high or too low, stop and start again.

The tempo: Start everyone at the same time. Shout in rhythm with the time: “Let's go,” or
     clap your hands, or tap your feet and start on the next beat. Use simple hand motions; the
     up and down pump handle motion, to keep the group together.

Song Information: The words, the tune. Be sure the whole group knows the song. It is best
     to sing with the songbooks closed.

Enthusiasm:  Volume is not important, at least not at first. Let the group know that it is
     singing you want, not noise or volume.

Leadership: Plan your selections carefully. Choose songs that fit the group and occasion
     and avoid songs that may offend someone. Do not ask the group what they want to sing –
     tell them.