Some do's and dont's for a choir member (not exhaustive)

As the title goes, this is not an exhaustive list of how a choir member should conduct himself when singing during the Liturgy, but they are based on experience and observations thus far, so here goes:

1. Do not end your singing with an abrupt loud blast unless indicated by the conductor. Usually all pieces should end gently and subtly.
2. Don't sing too fast, similarly don't sing too slow. Follow the conductor's rhythm. He's there not for decoration, but for a practical purpose. Also, do not try to outdo each other in terms of volume. The quality of a Gregorian choir is measured by how well each member merge their individual voices into one single voice. Therefore, all members should sing try to sing at the same volume and pace.
   
3. Do not bury your head in the book or music sheets when singing. Let your voice project out for all to hear.
4. Members should alternate their breathing if they cannot hold the note for too long. However, the alternation should not be distinguishable by the faithful. While breathing in, try not to make that distinct breathing noise.
   
5. While at Mass, wait attentively/meditatively for Mass to begin. Mark your books for the first few parts that would be sung. It goes without saying that you should be aware of what is to be sung next and to have the proper pages marked accordingly.
6. Refrain from starting unnecessary conversations in the pews prior to Mass. Respect other members' time for prayer.
7. Choir members are required to bow at the singing of the Holy Name of Jesus and the first part of the Gloria Patri. Just a simple bow will do (a slight nod of the head). There is no need to use the moderate or even profound bow. Genuflect at the "et incarnatus est......" of the Credo.
8. Inevitably, after Mass, some people will come to speak to us. But under most circumstances, we should all kneel together to pray for a short time and then leave the pews together. Please see the choir members prayer post.
9. Make sure and touch base with the Choir Master before leaving to let him know in advance if one could not make it for the upcoming practice.
10. Do try to listen to a wide variety of chant and sacred music recordings. Listen and see how other professional groups/scholas sing, but do not limit yourselves to any single particular group. One learns chant mainly from listening, not from reading books.
11. Do practice, practice, and practice until everyone gets it right. Never be overconfident over short and seemingly simple pieces.