My music education had a choral emphasis. I have loved choral music and have directed many different choirs in my life’s journey. When scripture alludes to choral music, I take notice.

Ezra and the Levites organized a two-part choir at the dedication of the rebuilt wall around Jerusalem. Upon the wall, one choir went in one direction and the other likewise. They were singing to each other and the people were rejoicing. The sound could be heard far away. What a day of rejoicing!

The choirs were opposite each other, one singing to the other and back and forth in encouraging response. This is antiphonal singing, and was mandated by King David many years ago. We still use antiphonal choral singing today. Worship leaders would do well to implement this powerful form of responsive singing in contemporary worship services.

Paul says, “Speak … to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;” Eph. 5:19,20