However you choose to introduce a new musical setting of the liturgy, be sure to return to something familiar in the next season. The return gives the congregation a sense of grounding and is like a visit with an old and dear friend. Knowing that the familiar will be back often creates an openness to learning something new. There are other ways to introduce new hymns. Choirs, both adult and children, can be valuable tools for teaching new hymns.
Children are particularly effective in enticing adults to try new things.
Adults are often happy to participate with children and will wholeheartedly embrace their teaching, while they might turn away from adults doing the same introduction. Whatever choirs are used, be certain that they are carefully rehearsed and can present a new hymn with accuracy and enthusiasm. Choirs need time to become comfortable with new styles, especially when introducing hymns from other cultures. They need to be convincing in their singing and convey the spirit and sense of the people and the culture from which the music comes, as well as make it accessible to the people who will learn to sing it. Let's consider some easy and helpful ways to introduce new hymns to a congregation.