Helpful Hints for Optimal Use
Music folders are a necessity for singers, whether you’re using them for rehearsal, travel, or performance. At their best, they are a silent companion to successful music-making. At their worst, they are a burden that you’d rather throw into a river than hold for two more measures. Because a singer’s instrument is their body, it’s important that holding their music doesn’t impede performance. Therefore, the singer must make informed choices to optimize the use of their music folder. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional chorister, read on for some helpful hints for making the most of your music folder.
Music Folders for Singers 101
There are a few basic qualities of music folders that are important to look for. When picking out a music folder, aim for these qualities:
- Choose a folder that is durable and easy to carry.
- Make sure the folder has enough pockets to hold all of your music.
- Choose a folder that will protect your music from damage.
Situations where Singers use Music Folders
There are a number of circumstances where singers are likely to use music folders. Music folders are essential for rehearsals, keeping your music organized and easily accessible. When traveling, a music folder can be a lifesaver, keeping your music safe and organized while you’re on the go. In some cases, a music folder may be used during a performance. This could be for solo oratorio performances, or when singing in a choir or with a chamber ensemble.
Organizing Music in Your Folder
The best way for singers to make the most of their music folders is to keep them well-organized. The pockets on a music folder are great for holding sheet music, allowing you to keep your scores contained while you’re looking through your repertoire.
The middle elastic or rings part of a music folder can be used to keep your music organized and in place. This is especially helpful when flipping through pages of music. It is also helpful to label each piece of music with a small sticky tab so you can find it easily.
Some music folders come with rings, straps, or an iPad holder along the spine of the folder. These can be helpful for keeping your music secure and in place while you’re using it. It’s a good idea to set up your music folder ahead of time so that you’re not fumbling with scores during your rehearsal or performance. This includes organizing your music and making sure that all of the necessary materials are in place.
Be sure to keep your pencil out of the way when you’re using your music folder. If you put it behind your ear, remember to remove it before you go onstage for any performance!
Performing with your Music Folder
Before you go onstage, take the time to organize your music so that you can find the pieces you need quickly and easily. You won’t need all of your repertoire for every performance, so be sure to empty any unneeded pieces from your music folder. This will lighten your load and help you stay focused during your performance.
When performing with your music folder, hold it at chest height and at an appropriate angle so that you can see the conductor and the music at the same time. You should be able to glance down at your music and back to the conductor without moving your head up and down. For a few weeks before your performance, practice singing with the folder in your hand so you get comfortable with these motions.
It’s important to watch the conductor more than the music when you’re performing. This will help you stay in sync with the other performers and make any necessary changes in tempo or dynamics.
If you’re getting tired of holding your music folder in one arm, be sure to switch arms as needed. In some cases, a music folder may be too much to handle during a performance. If this is the case, ask your chorus manager, director, or venue for accommodations. Most places have an extra music stand that you can use.
Once your performance is over, be sure to empty your music folder and return any scores that don’t belong to you. This will help you and the groups you perform with keep music organized and in good condition for future use.