Vorsinger begins every hymn. Alone. First note chosen by memory, by feel. No tuning fork (instrument = worldly). No sheet music (literacy = pride?).
Role
Vorsinger isn't a conductor. He's the first voice. Starts the first syllable. Congregation joins on the second. Then — everyone together. If Vorsinger hits a wrong note — entire congregation sings 'wrong.' No one corrects. Gelassenheit.
How They Become One
Not appointed — noticed. A man (always a man) with good memory and clear voice. Learns from old Vorsinger since childhood. By 20, knows all 140 hymns by heart. By melodies that exist on no paper.