If there’s ever a verse that stands out as one pointed right at the worship leader it has to be this one:
Sing to him a new song; play skillfully, and shout for joy. Ps 33:3 (NIV)
This past week we had an extended rehearsal, not because we planned for it, but because we ran in to all sorts of issues while we were rehearsing a new song. It was Ocean’s by Hillsong United…you should listen to it, check it out at the bottom of this post. I also had the privilege of not being on the platform this week so I was able to observe the rehearsal in a different way. It’s amazing what you see when you’re not tied down to your own parts for the week. Ocean’s isn’t that difficult of a song but for whatever reason the team had a hard time. The first run through of the song was really rough but the team began to work on it. Slowly and methodically the team worked and worked some more on the song. After about an hour, the song sounded great. We talked a bit afterward and we looked at Psalm 33:3. I was so encouraged by the dedication of the team and their commitment to working out the musical issues as they knew this song would minister to the congregation this weekend. Here are some thoughts to take with you and your team.
- Play skillfully in your personal craft. Come to the rehearsal ready. Know the part you play for each song, memorize the chord chart and words. It’s frustrating for both the worship leader and yourself if you’re learning parts during rehearsal. I always liken a worship rehearsal to an orchestra rehearsal. Everyone comes with their part prepared. The goal of the practice is to put it all together, not learn individually.
- Listen to each other. If everyone on the team has come prepared the rehearsal will go much smoother but sometimes the team just doesn’t gel right away. Help each other out. Figure out what all the instruments are doing as you’re rehearsing your part so you know what to expect during practice. Give room for each other.
- Keep God at the forefront. Above all else, we get the honor of coming together and using our musical abilities for the glory of God. You’re not just coming together to put on a good show or jam. Recognize that your rehearsal time is part of your service to God and you’ll be amazed at how much sweeter the worship service times will be.
Spend time working on your craft every day as well as helping your team play more skillfully week after week.
Update From the Field