The role of a vocal director will change from setting to setting based on needs, team and a variety of variables. Here are some suggestions to get you started.
MIDWEEK: Check who is rostered during the week and let campus oversight know if anyone is unconfirmed, look at songlist, identify any potential challenges as early as possible. Eg new song on the list, give the team an extra heads up.
- ON THE DAY PRE REHEARSAL: Arrive early and CALL if you will be late.
- Check batteries in packs and mics or ask vocals to do it.
- Check in with MD/ WL then all anyone running late to see if they are ok.
- WARM-UPS: Run warm-ups. Minimum of 1 diaphragm/breath, 1 siren, 1 scale, 1 flexible eg zee’s
- Ask Team if there is anything they are unsure of in the list. Then run through as many songs as you can get through in order of most difficult/ newest songs first. Checking parts in chorus/bridge if applicable. Plan out dynamic lifts, and find a unified tone.
- Listen out for the band to finish sound check and head out to vocal line check. (MD may text you but it is your responsibility to get vocals out on stage sound checking). *We will save sound check procedure for another time…
- REHEARSAL: Assign vocals mics. Place most experienced vocals in the middle, least experienced on the ends. Consider height, stage presence, male/female, who is leading etc/ just balance across the stage. (Or check for stage layout on PC)
- In rehearsal listen out for things to tighten eg phrasing, harmonies, dynamics and bring leadership and clarity to these things.
- POST SERVICE: Can ask WL or audio guy for feedback on how vocals went. Use any relevant info for next service and pass on any feedback necessary eg mic not working, (practical), tensions, struggles etc.
Notes:
• Aim to set the tone- faith-filled, ready for anything.
• As a general rule, we don’t do harmonies in verses. And usually, steer away from parts in the high register. Aim to sing only the parts on be recording. Don’t add or changes extra parts if they don’t exist.
• Some WL will naturally take on the role of VD others not. It’s just a matter of knowing what your WL would appreciate from you. It can be good to check in with them after the service.
• Set the tone for dress code. (Check others are dressed appropriately)
*Our aim is that every vocalist rostered is able to sing harmonies, and feels confident carrying a song and the platform.
*WL may need to close the service. Strong, clear, concise, assume the role of pastor to our congregation, not awkward or ‘funny.’
*Draw up a stage plot and outline which vocalists are leading each song.
Got any extra ideas to add? We’d love to hear them. Just comment below and we can add them in.
Carly XX