vacant , to double parts that deserve a great impact , and to also leave space at times when you know they ’ re going to be filling it .
It will be tempting at this point to start building a list of ‘ weaknesses ’ where you see room for change or improvement , but as you practice this , I ’ d encourage you to focus first on where you can adapt , learn , and support rather than bringing a sheet of notes and suggestions for how they can better work around your preferences . Remember , if they did the same thing to evaluate your playing , they ’ d probably have some notes too !
HOW DO THEY SOUND ?
Many modern worship keys players are more ‘ sound conscious ’ than ever before , obsessing over the amount of piano compression , the timbre and warmth of every pad , and dialing in the perfect amount of low frequencies for sub bass .
If this is you , then you already understand this topic . Once you are becoming more aware of when and what your team ’ s guitarist ( s ) is playing you can add an additional bit of nuance to your approach by taking note of the common guitar tones they use .
If they tend to favor warm , shimmery ambient parts you can provide a sonic counterpoint to that with brighter , drier sounds at the right time .
When the guitar is drenched in chorus or vibrato you can steer clear of pitch modulation and provide a similar retro-vibe with a warm , analog-style pad .
Once you start to notice their guitar tones , it will likely prove hard to stop . I would propose that the topic of ‘ tone ’ is the best way to bridge into initial conversations with your guitarist friends about how you can better collaborate . I ’ ve not met a guitarist yet who doesn ’ t appreciate being told the tone they chose for a given song or part was awesome . By taking the time to provide positive feedback you ’ ll begin to build a shared understanding of craft and lay down roads for bi-directional sharing of ideas , feedback , and even constructive criticism as your relationship grows .
Many guitarists in worship teams take their role and artistry seriously , investing time and money in the pursuit of excellence and enjoyment alike . Us keys players have a lot in common , and honestly , much to owe to the trail they ’ ve blazed over the last twenty years , chasing that next sound , that next pedal , the perfect volume swell . If you ’ re not already building a bond with your bandmates , you ’ ve more in common than you realize . Take the time to listen , to understand , to affirm them in their efforts , and you ’ ll be well on your way towards increased synergy and musical excellence .
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
92 May 2024 Subscribe for Free ...