How Does a Worship Leader Cue the Congregation? by Bob Kauflin

Paul's question highlights one of the differences between leading a group of people to praise God from their hearts and simply playing and singing music for them. While people can certainly join along as we play our songs, it's helpful when we make it obvious we expect them to sing. If you sing songs the exact same way every time, cuing the congregation isn't as much of an issue. But if you regularly switch things up as you sing a song (repeat a verse, sing the chorus twice, go back to a different part of the song, etc.) people need to know where you're going. Cuing them is one way to do that. Here are a few thoughts.

In discussing the benefits of prophecy vs. tongues, Paul writes in 1 Cor. 14:7-8: 1Cor. 14:7 "If even lifeless instruments, such as the flute or the harp, do not give distinct notes, how will anyone know what is played? And if the bugle gives an indistinct sound, who will get ready for battle?" In other words, clarity matters. The less time people spend trying to figure out where we're going in a song, the more time they'll be able to give to exalting Christ in their minds and affections. That means I don't want to mumble or speak too quickly. It also means that if different parts of a song begin with the same phrase, I have to say something other than the initial words to let people know what we're going to sing. Generally, if I don't say anything, people (including the projectionist) should anticipate me going to the next part of the song.

Trying to squeeze in a verbal direction at the last minute not only makes me sound frantic, but it doesn't really help anyone. I should have a feel for how long the spaces in the song are. Also, I don't have to say the whole first line to let people know what we'll be singing. Saying two or three words works, or even simply, "Verse 2."

Source: WorshipMatters.com