Training a large group of volunteers can be difficult. Choir leaders have to manage and work around several different -- and sometimes conflicting -- personality types and musical preferences and styles. Because organization and unity is important for the success of a choir, choir directors should set a steady time and location for practices. These train choir members to be committed and disciplined, and reduce the risk of chaos and discord.
Often because the choir members are volunteers, it is sometimes the case that passion and dedication for the choir project dwindles. Choir members who are not receiving monetary compensation for their long hours of practice and their meaningful performances can sometimes get discouraged. Praise and compliments can replace the desire for monetary compensation and recognition, making the volunteers feel as though their time, efforts and talents are not being wasted.
Choosing the songs that a volunteer gospel choir should sing is also important. It is a collaborative process; the choir director's choice in repertoire should reflect the choir's style and preferences. A choir is a unit made of several individuals; choosing songs that most of them appreciate and relate to is the key to having a successful, unified choir.
As with any leader, a choir director ought to be a good example for his or her choir members. Volunteers look to the choir director for guidance -- not just musically, but in areas of discipline and dedication as well. If the choir director does not take practices and performances seriously, there is an increased chance that choir members will not either. Directors should consider arriving to practice prepared and on time.