As a technical director
or regular engineer mixing the worship service, we should attend rehearsals
each week to "practice" new songs along with the vocalists and musicians.
Practice might not make perfect, but it can lead the way to excellence.
This is also a good time to teach proper instrument mic placement and vocal
mic techniques. Rehearse your mixing techniques during practice. Use this
time to try a new effect, dial in a compressor or eq the system. Strive
to improve your mix every time you sit behind the board. Place a priority
on establishing an awesome monitor mix that provides each player with just
what he or she needs to lead the congregation into worship. Remember
that if the worship team is unable to engage in worship, it is equally
difficult for the audience. Strive to satisfy each member of the worship
team with the proper level and equalization. Carve out time for the less
experienced musicians and vocalist so that they can learn to evaluate what
they need and how to communicate their need to the sound team. Regularly
measure the stage volume and moderate the ever-increasing SPL from drums
and guitars. If the sound volume on stage typically overwhelms the house
sound system, then educate your worship team on the benefits of electronic
drums, headphones and ear-worn monitors.
And in conclusion, the most
single important piece of advice I can give anyone serving in a technical
capacity is to learn to gracefully accept complaints and criticism. Humbly
accept input from the congregation, the worship team and the pastor. Even
when you are doing your absolute best, problems can and will arise, and
you can rest confidently knowing that God knows how hard you have tried.
Leave your anxiety at the throne and respond with a loving heart!
If you can adapt this attitude
while doing sound, just imagine how it could change the rest of your life!
Experiencing Worship, The Study
Used by churches all over the world to help teach worship, the Experiencing Worship study can help your worship team too.
Your team will learn why we worship and gain a better understanding of how to worship.
One user said..."Your 5 week study course has made a tremendous impact on my life in the study of worship... I would like to express my thanks for a well written study course that leads into a higher realm of praise and worship."
The Paul Langford Project
This is the debut album by EXW friend Paul Langford. Paul is a Chicago based singer, arranger, keyboardist, producer and conductor. Paul has a career that spans 14 years. Paul's work includes arranging for groups like GLAD, Voices of Liberty, VoiceTrek, The Chicago based "Caroling Party" and Day of Discovery Singers. His arranging has appeared on recordings side by side with greats like Gene Puerling and David Maddux, and he has sung with Don Shelton, Bonnie Herman and Bob Bowker, among others.