DRUMS
WORSHIP DRUMMING ESSENTIALS 101 | Carl Albrecht
I know there are many concepts that relate to drums in worship . The discipline of being a great musician is a lifelong endeavor . But let ’ s look at four essentials that are really the corner tent pegs that hold it together . All I have ever taught on the subject of drums in worship seem to be built on these . As we move into the fall season many of you are returning to school or a new pace of life . How about making it a time to re-center your drumming routine as well ? Here we go !
“ YOU GOTTA ’ HAVE HEART … LOTS OF HEART .” These words from an old song still have the most profound meaning . I believe that playing with passion and purpose is felt by you , your band , and the people listening .
This is even more critical when it comes to worship . Playing with excellence is great to a certain degree . Sure , we all want to be as perfect as we can be . But ultimately , we must be worshipping when we play . Everything has to be built on this . Remember the 11 th commandment – “ Thou Shalt Not Play Thy Drums in Vain .” WORK ON YOUR “ CHOPS .” You knew I wouldn ’ t leave this out . This is the technical side of your playing . And it will always be important . As much as your “ heart being in it ” is vital , so is your ability to do the job well . Keep working on your skill ! Practice ! Learn the songs you play in great detail . Using a metronome when you practice is most critical . Don ’ t be content with anything less than your absolute best . “ Thou Shalt Honor Thy Gifting .”
TEAM SPIRIT IS THE NEXT PILLAR FOR A GREAT WORSHIP MUSICIAN . Don ’ t get trapped thinking of yourself . This applies to both musical and relational aspects of your drumming . Look for ways to build people up . When you ’ re playing , listen to what the rest of the band sounds like and connect to the vibe . Get into what the others are doing .
Be a team player in every way . When you ’ re just hanging out as a group of friends , a kind word or maybe helping out when you see a need can have a huge impact .
If you feel there is a spiritual void and no one is giving much attention to prayer and heart
... ultimately , we must be worshipping when we play . Everything has to be built on this .
issues , you might be the one to draw the team into fellowship time . Always strive to be the encourager ! “ Thou Shalt Honor Your Brothers and Sisters .”
LAST , BUT NOT LEAST , BE SURE TO “ PLAY TO THE ROOM .” You could be a great drummer with incredible skill , have the passion to worship , and totally be a team player , but if you don ’ t adjust to the acoustics of the room you ’ ve failed . Usually this means being too loud , but on rare occasions you might be playing too softly to get the band to sound good together . Sometimes you have to dig in a little bit to get the band to gel . Always ask the engineer if your volume is OK in the room . “ Thou Shalt Not Kill the Worship
Atmosphere .”
At every conference or clinic these are the most discussed topics amongst players , worship leaders , and pastors . Really ! You have to get this ! Make these the cornerstones of your calling and you ’ ll truly be the drummer / musician / human being the Lord has called you to be .
Blessings to you as you continue to build your life and drumming on a solid foundation .
Carl Albrecht Professional drummer for 30 + years , playing with Paul Baloche , Don Moen , Ron Kenoly , Abe Laboriel , LeAnn Rimes and others . He ’ s also a clinician , author & pastor .
Contact Carl for coaching , online lessons , producing , or sessions . I ’ m still growing too .. www . CarlAlbrecht . com
September 2018 WorshipMusician . com
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