The Singing Thing: A case for congregational song

by John L. Bell

The first of two books addressing the ‘whys’ and ‘hows’ of congregational singing. Unapologetically anecdotal, it deals not with musical theories, but with the reasons why people sing and how best to enable them to do so.

This highly accessible analysis by John L. Bell, one of the world’s leading experts on congregational song, offers ten persuasive answers to the question ‘Why do we sing?’ Each is explored with a wealth of illustration and practical insight born of 20 years’ experience in this field.

John L. Bell is a Fellow of the Royal School of Church Music and a member of the Wild Goose Resource & Worship Groups, whose purpose is the creative renewal of public worship and song.

Genres: Music, Nonfiction

158 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 2000

Reviews

[Natalie]

This is a short and helpful, but sometimes patchy book - it’s very conversational, which is nice, but sometimes Bell makes statements that sound a bit like an awkward uncle (e.g. getting stuck into altos for carrying large handbags was a weird diversion).

Having got that off my chest, there is a lot in this book which is important and is expressed simply and well. I like the way he talks about the importance of singing new songs that allow congregations to sing about current issues. I like his constant reminder that congregational singing is the main purpose of singing in church, and that church musicians should reflect on that often. The reflections on church spaces that enable congregants to hear each other are valuable. The section on “vocal disenfranchisement” almost brought me to tears - the harm done to children when they are told they “cannot sing” is heavy and leaves such scars.

[Josh]

Good, unique, helpful, important.

[David Campton]

An easily read book, from one of my favourite contemporary hymn-writers. John comes out of the "folk" tradition of worship leaders, but this has something to say to people of all musical tastes, and he largely side-steps the "traditional versus contemporary/choir versus praise band" debates. It isn't just for organists/music directors/worship leaders or clergy, but, aimed as it is at encouraging congregational worship and specifically singing, it is a worthwhile and quick read for any Christian. He offers a strong theological and psychological case for congregational singing and is critical of the performance culture of both choir and contemporary praise band. In many ways this is the theory... there is a second volume that deals with the practice ie the "how to" regarding getting people singing. As that is not my specific role in church I probably won't get that one, but having been in a couple of his workshops where he has managed to get groups singing four part harmonies in a matter of minutes, it is probably worth a read for those who have such a responsibility...

[Steven]

There are many wonderful moments in this short work that clergy, church musicians, and church musical directors alike would do well to read every few years to check in with how the music is either enhancing or hindering worship, community, and love.

[Darby Hughes]

Brief & easy to read. I thought the later sections on vocal disenfranchisement (I can't sing), the fallout of a performance culture, and the section on how physical spaces can affect singing were helpful.

Leans left as far as its theology goes.

[Jonathan D Kopplin]

Excellent book. Bell addresses some of the challenges in developing a congregation that sings with confidence. He provides many practical observations, and avoids favoring a specific worship style. This is applicable regardless of denomination.

[Rebecca Michelson]

Disappointed. Compared to the Getty’s book making a case for congregational singing, this is weak at best. I give two stars because I don’t see error in the cases made, they just aren’t as strongly applicable to church congregational singing as I feel they should be.

[Knightgina]

brilliant, very informative, and challenging.

[Mees]

Very accessible.

[Richard Fitzgerald]

John Bell has given us a gift in this volume. The art and practice of communal singing in worship is fading in our congregations where ineptly played music cannot be followed. Or, professional musicians behind their microphone line and stupidly dimmed lights in the sanctuary give off a concert feel that inhibits participation. Or, people have been told they cannot sing. Or,...... This book makes the powerful argument that singing can and should be vibrant in every congregation. I highly recommend this little book.

[Alison]

Very helpful.

[Joel Griffis]

Never heard of this guy, but he’s very thoughtful. The theology was suspect in places, but it’s a great book overall.