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Music, when properly used, can greatly enhance the
impact and class of DeMolay ceremonies. Since the Installation of
Officers is an important opportunity to make a positive impression
on families, Masonic sponsors, and the general public, music is
especially appropriate on this occasion.
It is important, however, that appropriate music
is chosen, and used well, to make the proper impression. Here are
some suggestions for you as you guide your members on using music:
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1. Music can be used to set a mood,
reinforce a point, or create transitions
between elements of the ceremonies. It also helps the event to flow,
and prevents "dead times" of silence during the ceremony.
2. Music should accompany the ceremonies, not
overpower them. Well-chosen and well used music will not
draw too much attention to itself.
3. Live music is not necessarily better than recorded
music. If you intend to use live musicians, ALWAYS "audition"
them first. Using a musician you are unfamiliar with is a bad gamble.
4. If you will use recorded music, be sure to test all equipment
first, and check volume levels and room acoustics beforehand. Remember
that sound will be somewhat different in a full room than an empty
one.
5. Try to put the audio equipment and person playing the music more
or less out of sight… they're not the show.
6. Be sure that recorded music is organized in such
a way that it can be accessed quickly and controlled properly. The
ceremonies should never be held up waiting for music to start or
stop. It is wise to create a "mix" tape or CD with all
the music for the event on it, in the order it will be used.
When choosing appropriate music, keep these things
in mind:
1. Familiar music comes with associations.
You can't play the "Superman" sound track and expect people
not to think of Superman. Be aware of the images your music conjures.
Sometimes, it is better to use music that is unfamiliar.
2. Instrumentals are often safer than music with lyrics.
If there are lyrics, people tend to try to listen to them, which
may distract from your program. If you use music with lyrics, it
should not be used at a time when it will be "competing"
with any part of the ceremony.
3. A variety of types of music may be appropriate.
Classical music, of various types, is a good bet for bringing class
to the event. Music appropriate to a holiday season, patriotic music,
or other theme, may also be appropriate for your occasion.
4. Remember that you have guests of various ages and interests.
Be careful of choosing contemporary music that may be unpleasant
or even offensive to guests. This doesn't mean that contemporary
and popular music CAN'T be used, only that it must be chosen carefully.
Obviously, any music that is lyrically questionable must never be
used.
5. Light and fast moving music should predominate,
since it helps to keep up the pace and mood of the ceremonies. This
is particularly true of music played for movement on the floor.
If the music is very slow, people will tend to move slower and slow
down the ceremonies.
6. Somber music can be used very effectively to change
the mood of the ceremonies at serious times, but should be used
very sparingly.
7. Using music which will create a "humorous"
reaction is okay on occasion, but should not be overdone. If guests
begin to wonder "Gee, what funny song will they play next?"
then the music has detracted from the ceremony instead of adding
to it. Musical "jokes," if used, are best left for the
end of the ceremonies, or for a single event during the ceremony.
8. Music playing behind a speaker can be a blessing
or a curse. It can lend drama to a speech like the Flower Talk or
the Ceremony of Light, or it can distract both the speaker and the
listener. Choose very carefully whether to use such music, and which
music is used. Never play lyrics behind a speaking part. Always
make sure the speaker is aware that music will be playing while
he speaks, and that he is comfortable with this.
Suggested types of music:.
1. Soft background music playing as
guests arrive sets a nice atmosphere for the ceremony. Similar music
can also be played as guests dismiss.
2. Processional music can be used for the entrance
of the Chapter Officers, and any dignitaries being formally received
into the room. It is also fitting for times when the Marshal is
moving to present guests, or to cover other times of movement.
3. Reverent, prayerful music is fitting when the Chaplain
is traveling to and from the altar for prayer, when the Bible is
being opened, while the altar is attended to, or during ceremonies
like memorial services.
4. Patriotic music can be used for processionals,
and is especially appropriate for use when the flag is being presented.
The National Anthem must not be used as "traveling
music." If the anthem is to be used, the flag must be stationary
at the altar, or in its standard, and the room raised to attention
and salute. Use of the anthem during the flag ceremony is encouraged.
It should follow the Pledge of Allegience.
5. Special music by a soloist or other musician(s)
may be inserted at appropriate points in the ceremony, if desired,
but Chapters must keep schedule in mind and not over-extend the
program with added music and ceremonies.
6. Somber music, as mentioned above, should be used
sparingly. Portions of our ceremonies, like the Orator's speeches,
a Flower Talk or Ceremony of Light, or a Memorial Service may call
for more serious music, but do not overuse it.
7. Fanfares have limited usefulness. They may be used
for reception of a high dignitary, or during ceremonies to confer
honors (there is a designation in the Legion of Honor Conferral
for a fanfare). Overusing fanfares (like overusing the calling up
of the Chapter or the "standing ovation") destroys their
significance.
If you'd like some specific suggestions or samples
of appropriate music, contact the PA DeMolay office for help.
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