I agree that group singing seems to be disappearing from our culture. So let's do something about it. We should use our song circles to educate people in group singing. Start with RUS, it's a good resource for group singing. But then go the next step. Encourage people who use RUS to make the songs their own. Encourage them to actually learn the songs. Tell them about the background of the songs. Encourage them to learn new songs "not in the book."

RUS is not bad in itself. But it is just a beginning. Song circles should encourage growth in public singing. Growth to the point where we can leave the book at home and enjoy singing songs that we really know, songs we can call our own. That's the real enjoyment in singing.

Many song circles seem to be stuck in a rut. They never move beyond that first step. Many people come and sing the same song that they've never bothered to learn, and have to keep singing it word for word out of the book.

Folkies seem to have an aversion to leaders. But maybe we need people who can lead song circles so that people grow in their ability to sing. Education can be a good thing. And I think it can lead to more enjoyment in singing by everyone.

Maybe then we wouldn't have these silly arguments.

Cheers, S. in Seattle