While there is a “gravitational pull” for modern songs to be in 4/4 time (divisible into four-beat measures), I use 2/4 time (two beats per measure) for flexibility in handling lines of different length. Discussion below assumes a 2/4 time signature.
End-of-Line Rest Measures
- Optionally add one or more Rest Measures at the end of any stanza to provide a short break.
- Always add a rest measure to the end of a line in which the Ending Notes end on the second beat of a measure.
- Optionally add a Rest Measure to short lines to make the line at least four measures (eight beats) long, including any Opening Measure. This minimum length feels natural to modern singers who are more accustomed to 4/4 time.
- Optionally add a Rest Measure to the end of each Refrain to provide a short break.
Opening Measure
For group singing I recommend adding an opening two-beat measure before each line, beginning with the chord for the new line. If there is a pickup note, it is in the second beat of that opening measure. The first full beat of the Main Note starts the second measure.
For a group that is experienced with Rhythmic Psalms, the opening measure may be omitted. Pickup notes would then occur just before the chord change.
If available, I like to have an instrument play the upcoming Main Note at the beginning of the Opening Measure as a prompt for singers.
Refrains
Each of the six Basic Tunes in this book includes an optional Refrain—a complementary tune that can be used to add variety. By default the Refrain is used on every third stanza, but it may be applied wherever it fits best, or left out entirely.
In the Rhythmic Psalms Version, stanzas that are suggested for use as Refrains are marked with “(Ref).”
The Song Leader’s Role
The song leader’s role in leading Rhythmic Psalms is very important, from planning to the singing itself. Considerations include:
- How to best teach new singers
- Psalm arrangements (Opening Measures, Rest Measures, etc.)
- Tune or tunes selected for each Psalm
- Use and placement of Refrains
- Tempo
- Repetition of challenging stanzas
- Repetition of well-loved stanzas