Hey guest Bob Biderman, funny you should ask. I have been planning a workshop on just that very topic. Song leading is not rocket science but there are a few things to learn. I'll try to list some hints. (I should tell you that I do song leading for a living. I led the campfire at the Phila. Folk Festival for thirty years. I do dozens schools and summer camps, union ralleys and concerts. These ideas really work) First, you will need a song leader's attitude. This means that you must be willing to forgo applause and limelight and make the crowd the star. Next, avoid "...a song I just wrote.". Keep it simple and familiar. Don't assume that they know the version of the song you do. Teach the words before you start the song and slip in lyric reminders while they're singing. Repitition is a good thing. It lets them know that you really want them to sing. Encourage others to suggest or lead songs BUT!!!, don't let someone slip in a performance. It is your job to keep the sing from becoming a round robin. There will be frustrated performers among the more honest citizens. They will want to do a solo. Don't let it happen. Be willing to be corny. In December, do Christmas songs. Yes, I know they've been done to death but everyone loves to sing them so who are we to question popular taste. Take advantage of known material. People love to sing "This Land is Your Land" and "Sloop John B". Make those songs a part of your arsenal. Be nostalgic. Try old camp songs, high school fight songs and, when all else fails, everybody's favorite, "Somewhere, Over the Rainbow" If you have specific questions, I'll be glad to help. WE need all the real song leaders we can get.