will move in the way that God chooses to move . Being ready and prepared so we can react can play a huge part in making sure we recognize the opportunity .
Which brings me to …
LISTEN FOR IT
These days many modern worship bands do have a good system in place for getting prepped up for their setlist . They have audio files , stems , and tutorials to practice with at home and maybe even a good routine for soundcheck and rehearsal .
And with modern technology you can rely on a click and guide cues to help your band stay on track as you execute the setlist that was prepared . But if you find that you ’ re playing along to the version of the original song that ’ s in your head more than you are to the actual bandmates around you , you run the risk of not hearing what could be .
I ’ m not giving you carte blanche license to ignore the song map or to rip pentatonic organ solos over the verses of every ballad . But I am encouraging you to listen to the moments , not just your memory of how the song is ‘ supposed to go ’.
Oftentimes you won ’ t actually be able to recognize some of the opportunities for space , reflection , powerful dynamic moments , or even simple silence until your church body is together , unifying behind common purpose , shared experience , and emotion .
You have to listen for it , or you ’ ll miss it .
RUN WITH IT
And once you hear it , you have to be willing and able to run with it . Whatever ‘ it ’ is , I highly recommend taking the time in advance to make sure everyone on your team is under leadership and understands who makes these calls , how you ’ re expected to respond , and even what kind of calls can be made in the first place .
Some churches might be at the level of simply choosing to repeat that bridge an extra time on the fly .
Some , a spontaneous drum break before the final chorus .
In other contexts , you might end up pulling up a song that wasn ’ t planned for that service , or even taking some time to improvise music and lyrics as you feel inspired .
None of these approaches are inherently more or less spiritual or significant than any other . You must work with the people you ’ re in ministry with to define what feels right for your church and context .
My advice is to put in some thought , dedicate some effort , and turn your heart towards recognizing the opportunity or the call towards these moments so your local church can be encouraged and edified .
David Pfaltzgraff Founder and Lead Sound Designer at SundaySounds . com , a site that resources worship keys players and guitarists around the world . David currently resides in Des Moines , IA with his wife and two boys . He enjoys volunteering in his church ’ s worship ministry , old synthesizers , and a good super-hero movie .
SundaySounds . com
88 March 2024 Subscribe for Free ...