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Worship Leader: Are You Growing Musically?

Terry Butler
I have heard many worship leaders comment in conversation that they wish they had more
experience or knowledge as a band leader or more freedom on their instrument. For many, its
frustrating to hear a new worship song that they would love to incorporate into their church, but
dont feel they have the ability to "pull it off". This all points to the need for worship leaders to be
growing in their musical abilities.
The worship leader often hears about the need to grow spiritually and to go deeper in the Lord in
order to be effective in his or her area of ministry. And rightly so! These are essential components
in the development of a worship leader; but one must not stop there.
Part of our job as worship leaders is to work towards being better equipped musically as well. We
are all familiar with parable of the three stewardsI believe musical ability in a worship leader is
a stewardship issue. Ive jotted down just a few of the benefits derived from being on a musical
growth curve.
Part of your role as worship leader is to present new songs to the congregation. As you grow
musically, you are more able to "capture" the feel and message of a song and present it well, so
that the church can be touched by it and be drawn into worship by it.
For example, I know one worship leader who struggled in his ability to do the faster tempos of
celebrative songs and felt limited. He made a point of seeking out other worship leaders for help,
and made a priority to work on these types of songs weekly. He thought it would take a long time
to see improvement, but soon realized that his efforts quickly made a big difference in that
particular area. He expanded his song options and opened up a new dynamic in his worship
leading. The key to this was to get a specific game plan and stick to it.
At times, we forget the way we influence those we minister with. We need to view ourselves as
the pacesetters for our teams, and have clear goals about where we are heading.
This obviously includes the overall sound of the singers and instrumentalists. If the leader is
growing in his or her abilities, it sends a message to the rest of the team that they are not to be
stagnant musically. As you model this, it gives you more freedom to encourage other members to
grow as well.
Some of you are saying right about now, "Yeah, but Im one of the weaker players on the team."
That is all the more reason to grow, because it will show those with more skill and experience that
you are serious about what you are doing. In this way, you are more apt to hold onto the more
seasoned musicians and attract new ones.
One or more of these skilled players may very well be able to help you in this growth process.
Choose someone who respects your role as leader, one without hidden agenda.
A long with growth comes freedom to minister more effectively. If you are able to think less about
transition from chord to chord, you are released to focus on the overall picture of what God is
saying or doing during a worship set, and you can respond more readily both spiritually and
musically. This kind of maneuverability gives room for the Spirit of God to move upon the team
and congregation.
I used to feel so confined to an exact arrangement of a song and I didnt realize the impact that
greater musical confidence would bring. As I observed other worship leaders who had a "larger
track to run on" in terms of their options during a set of songs, I began to realize that their hard
work behind the scenes, both alone and in team practice, created that freedom to respond to
Gods leading.
God is not into making clones. Each worship leader brings the elements of his or her own
personality, talent, and gifts into ministry and that is how God intended it to be. Our freedom to
hear God and respond while leading worship will look different from others.
Our part in this is to pursue him and be good stewards of the talent and gifts he has given. As I
have opened myself to new things and supplied them as a musician and leader of worship. I have
seen the Lord honor those efforts.
I believe our desire to cultivate our musical abilities has spiritual and emotional benefits. There is
a deep musical and spiritual connection that is undeniable and the Author of Music made it that

way. The journey is one of discovery and delight for those who take the time. As I continue to
explore new sounds, styles, and rhythms, a new freshness enters my spirit, and my ability to
express praise to God deepens. I fully believe that he rewards those who view themselves lifelong learners!
I have included a list of some of the areas that you may want to grow in and explore. Also, there
is a list of resources you might look into.
Knowledge of chords
Dealing with slash chords
Learning to play in new keys
Music Theory
Transition between songs
Playing "in time" better
Improving vocal skills
Learning new styles and rhythms
Greater freedom in expression
Responding to Gods direction
Planning a worship set
Skills in song arrangement
Leading a band
Music courses at a community college
Connecting wit more advanced players
Seminars and conferences
Books and magazine articles
Private lessons
Worship schools
Instructional videos
Listening to new styles of music
Its good for each of us to be reminded that our ultimate goal as worship leaders is to lead and
draw others into His presence in praise and adoration. Our goal is not to be a "hot band" but to be
His servants and vessels. And we must do it to the best of our abilities unto the King. As you
develop your skills and knowledge of music, you will be better equipped to handle the awesome
responsibility and privilege of the role called worship leader.

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