One of the great joys of music ministry is nurturing the spiritual and musical gifts of children. To help them develop these gifts, directors and teachers need exceptional, age-appropriate resources that provide the foundation for learning and success.
Zoltan Kodály once said, “Only the best is good enough for a child.” This truth sets a standard of excellence by which we as children’s choir directors should approach repertoire selection. Always remember: the music we select today will stay with our children for a lifetime.
With a new choir year fast approaching, it’s time to start planning repertoire! Here are some KEYS to consider for selecting excellent children’s choir music:
TEXT, the foundation for selecting songs…
- Is it age-appropriate?
- Is it theologically age-appropriate?
- Is it meaningful to children?
- Does it use concrete language rather than abstract language (symbolism)?
- Does it include repetition of phrases & words?
- Does it use inclusive language?
- Is it quality poetry or prose?
MELODY…
- Is it memorable and engaging?
- Does it move by step and natural skips?
- Is the range age-appropriate?
- Does the “line” move well – up and down?
- Is any part of the melody awkward?
STYLE…
- Is it age-appropriate?
- Is it possible to sing expressively?
- Does it fit the worship style in your church?
- Are the text and music well matched?
ACCOMPANIMENT…
- Does it support the melody?
- Is the texture overpowering?
- Does it “play” well?
- Is it interesting?
Editor’s Note: These outstanding choral anthems and resources are perfect for use at the beginning of a new choir season! Click our Scoreplay links below and “Look and Listen” to your selections
For YOUNGER CHILDREN (grades K-3)
- SING AND CELEBRATE 5 – 35030476
includes: Jesus In the Morning; This Little Light of Mine; Loving My Neighbor; Give Thanks
For OLDER ELEMENTARY (grades 3-6)
