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Church Music and Changing Worship Patterns

Southern Baptists, as have many other evangelical groups, have been a denomination of activists rather than one with a well-defined philosophy for action. This is particularly true in the field of church music. The origins of Southern Baptist church music practice are to be found in the "singer" tradition in which the role of the musician or singer was looked upon as an extension of the role of the evangelist, with the musician's major responsibility being to encourage congregational singing and to bring special music in song. Thus, our musical heritage is to be found more in the informal tradition than in any structured worship patterns. Not too many years ago, and occasionally still today, the minister on occasion called from the pulpit for any who would consent to act as the choir and sit toward the front of the church or in the choir loft. The structured choir specials and multiple choirs are late phenomena in Southern Baptist life. Many church members are still suspicious of church choirs who perform from copies of "sheet music". The standard source of choir specials has traditionally been the hymnbook and informal gospel songs the bulwark of the choir repertoire. With this heritage there has been for many congregations a special attachment to the more extended hymn-anthem and a sincere appreciation when the choir renders such a selection for the congregation. In the past the music for Baptist congregations was limited by available music materials, as well as by personnel to perform. The question of who should lead the music for the congregation or the "volunteer" choir was even more restrictive. In many instances the preacher functioned as the "song leader" and directed the congregational singing. The pianist functioned as the choir director. With the advent of the "singer" this role of leadership often was delegated to him. Particularly in view of the reluctance to have women as leaders in the public services this was a more acceptable arrangement to many of the congregation, not to mention the male members of the choir.