Here is the second and final part of this two-blog series; picking up where I left off, at number seven.
7. Develop relationships with people in the church and music department
This may seem obvious and an unspoken rule, but you would be surprised at the number of musicians/directors/singers that do not go out of their way to integrate deeply into their congregation. It can be tempting to stay in your comfort zone, to not go out of your way to talk to that elder sister that sits on the other side of the building.... Or that new family that seems a little weird. :0) But remember that half of your success on the platform is the music you present to the congregation: the other half is who you are to those people that are watching/listening to you.
8. Do not alienate your audience by only doing "your style" of music; gradually incorporate style changes
This is very important to a church, as music is like an opinion: everyone has one (or two, or thirty). There is nothing wrong with drawing strongly from a base style you are comfortable/accomplished at. You must be careful though not to find yourself singing/playing/teaching only one style of music. Not only does this limit the boundaries of your fellow singers/musicians and how much they can blossom and grow in their ministries, it is also very selfish for you to push one certain sound on the rest of the church. To be varied and comprehensive in your approach, you will need to mix up a combination of church music. I find that a good mix for me includes contemporary, black gospel, and some material that a few well-known Pentecostal choirs produce.
9. Rise above criticism
Being in front of everyone and trying to lead in worship through your voice or an instrument is no easy task. Be assured, occasionally someone will make comments to you or to your pastor that seem critical and unconstructive. Unfortunately this is part of the job! It is impossible to please everyone all the time - you are striving to appeal to the mass of your congregation in such a manner as to assist them in entering into the presence of the Lord. It is no easy task! Providing criticism isn't constant or from a large demographic of your church, you will need to brush it off and keep soldiering. There is nothing wrong with talking with your pastor when criticism comes; ask him/her to give you an unbiased opinion of your progress in your department, and ask for constructive criticism and feedback.
10. Be secure in your position (don't use it as a weapon or manipulation, but don't sweat the small stuff - you will win loyalty in time)
11. Discover new talent in your church
This is something that should be done continually. Why, you ask? Because every congregation changes here and there over time; saints come, saints go, and you will still be there doing your job. Even if you have a very accomplished, seasoned praise team / choir / group of musicians, you should always be keeping your eyes out for new talent and interest. When you find it, latch onto it and try to encourage the individual to pursue it. This will require some more time on your part, but that child that loves to bang on the piano now may be a phenomenal musician in five years. Notice I did not say it is your job to *teach* individuals with interest in your department. If you can manage this with your time and resources, that is fine. But I am a big promoter of people going out and obtaining their own training, whether it be musical or vocal. Someone who really is interested in being a part of your team will attempt to learn musical/vocal basics through school bands or private instructors. There is nothing wrong with allowing people to prove their passion for your department by expecting them to sacrifice the time and effort to learn and develop their voice or an instrument. After all - you put forth blood, sweat, and tears to get where you are, correct? There are no shortcuts to becoming a capable singer, director, or musician.
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