Notebook or not

Now that so much sheet music is downloaded or photocopied, a common way for musicians to manage their stack of 8.5x11-inch paper is to use a 3-ring binder notebook. Indeed, notebooks can look professional and keep everything in order.

When not to use a notebook

Don't fall into the trap of thinking that notebooks are always good. There are some times that notebooks don't work very well:

• Originals - You might not want to punch holes in expensive sheet music, and it's not always possible (and often not legal) to make copies.
• Oversize pages - If pages are larger than the notebook, it's really easy to tear them.
• Multi-page works - If a piece is longer than two pages, page turns may work better if the pages are loose. With loose pages, you can place 3-4 pages side by side, and you can slide a page to the side during a mid-page rest if there isn't a rest at the end of the page. (This can be a source of conflict, when the group leader is a vocalist who is working off a one-page lyric sheet, while the instrumentalists are juggling multiple pages.)
• Last-minute changes - If you'll need to change the order of the pieces just before or during the performance, notebooks can be inconvenient. On the other hand, notebooks can make it easier to find the pieces when you need them.
  
• Legal/ethical considerations - Using copies is often illegal. Contrary to popular belief within churches, it is usually not legal to use photocopies. Even if the church purchased the music. Even if the originals and the purchase receipt are sitting in a box at your feet. Even if the stupid publisher bound the originals in a way which would make them impossible to use on stage. Even if your church has a CCLI license. And it doesn't matter one bit that your group is nonprofit and for a good cause. Should a music industry "enforcer" be in the congregation, the presence of music notebooks on stage is a tip-off that you're a juicy target for legal action.
  

Notebook tips

Use black notebooks. Beware of decorating the notebook--anything light or bright colored peeking over the side of a music stand will be a huge visual distraction to the audience.

If there's any chance that you'll need to open your notebook during a prayer or other quiet time, make sure the notebook is easy to operate. The Staples "Better Binder" notebooks are great--the rings open easily and close quietly!

Use Post-It notes or add divider sheets so that you can easily flip to a particular piece.