for what sounds they’ll have available to them, that will be used for any given set or service? players on your team together for a free meal
agree on some common terminology, and In my opinion, these considerations must be and a simple training afterwards.
explain the basic practical application of these addressed before you begin the transition to (potentially brand new) types of sounds. Never the software world. Better to stick with the This extra attention to the real, human needs
have I seen a band member more frustrated gear you have on a level playing field than to of the people using the technology keeps the
than the time I asked my classically trained put your volunteers in the difficult position of not technology where it should be, in a position to
pianist volunteer to ‘just play a pad’ for the fifth knowing what to expect or not knowing what is be a help and not a hindrance or distraction.
time, without explaining what that meant! expected of them.
Oh, and by the way, back to my poor keys
CONSIDER THE ‘HOW’
LEAVE SPACE FOR THE ‘WHEN’
volunteer story: that volunteer ended up falling
in love with MainStage and software keys
The desire to begin to expand the keys If you’re the worship leader or band leader at sounds after we hit our groove and figured out
position’s palette of sounds is a worthy one, your church you likely know your team better how to make it work for our team. All it took
but there’s a real logistical challenge when your than just about anyone else. Any time you was taking the time to answer some questions,
volunteers don’t have an approximation of the introduce something new you run the risk of explain the basics, and be flexible during
final sounds to practice with at home on their alienating people who preferred the old way the transition!
pianos. or who are perhaps more hesitant to embrace
change. Leaving space in your plans for people
In my opinion, the biggest obstacle to the to be themselves, ask questions, and take time
software based keys rig is one of portability. to try out the new technology is a vital practice.
Who gets to take the Mac and MIDI controller Plan on introducing software like MainStage or
home to practice with, if anyone? Who’s Ableton slowly over a number of weeks or even
responsible for finding or designing the sounds a couple months. Consider getting all the keys
March 2019
David Pfaltzgraff
Founder and Lead Sound Designer
SundaySounds.com
Subscribe for Free...
167