Actually, Wesley, one of the most famous hymn writers of all times had never heard the Star Spangled Banner strangled as we’ve heard recently at the Olympics and at various sporting events. . . But, he did give “Directions for Singing” in his 1761 preface to Sacred Melody, and some apply to our difficult national anthem and the screeching and yodeling we sometimes hear as performers attempt to stamp it with their own interpretation. And here are a few tips:
1. Learn these tunes before you learn any other; afterwards learn as many as you please.
2. Sing them exactly as they are printed here, without altering or mending them at all; and if you have learned to sing them otherwise, unlearn it as soon as you can.
3. Join with the congregation
4. Sing lustily and with good courage. Beware of singing as if you were half dead, or half asleep; but lift up your voice wit strength. . .
5. Sing modestly. Do not bawl . . .
6. Sing in time. . . Do not run before nor stay behind it. . .
7. Above all sing spiritually. Have an eye to God in every word you sing. Aim at pleasing him more than yourself, or any other creature. . .
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1 comment:
Wesley's advice would clean up a good deal of musical performance in the church in general.
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