Not needed though. Its cultural. "Let your fruits show it" would be more Biblical.... Many people fake the face really well and aim for the looks. ( Christians of some ethnic groups look grumpy most of the time, so?) That's the problem with modern American Christianity - looks over fruits and substance...
@@onepersonmusic, I totally get what you're saying. However, I also don't want my team up on stage looking bored or frustrated as they worship Jesus. Shouldn't we be having fun??? That's all I'm trying to say. I think that's what the guys at WT are trying to say.
@@theworshipbunker Any human being will not be bored or frustrated. as they worship Jesus. And even if, it SUBJECTIVELY LOOKS as such to another person , so be it - lets not fake anything! And no, its not about "having fun", we are not supposed to "have fun". Did Isaiah "have fun" ? John, Peter, 24 elders and on and on..???
My Wife and I are LOLing so hard at “you’d be surprised at how angry you look”. She says every Sunday I look like somebody stole my cheeseburger when I’m on stage.
I’m in an unusual situation where as a woman I play lead-rhythm electric guitar & sometimes sing background. I smile, move, clap & raise my hands completely worshipping in circular motion between the congregation, God, me and back again. It’s awesome to me. We all have the ability to project to the congregation, “He am I Lord, send me!”
Thank you so much for this video! I’m 14 and I am a worship leader at my school and if I’m being completely honest, the students aren’t very engaged. This helped so much! I feel like God is gonna do some amazing work for our worship team and the students this coming school year. Keep up the worship tutorial videos
YES YES YES YES!!!!! worship leaders, be real, be true, let go of what people may think of you. Just worship! AND DEFINITELY make sure fly is up😂😂 And I'm stealing Fuller's line... "If the joy of the Lord is in your heart, notify your face. " Best line EVER!!
I love that, "If the joy of the Lord is in your heart, then please notify your face" or "If Jesus is in your heart, would you please let your face know about it." Nice! I have a face that looks "mad" until I smile. So I have to make a point to remember that and smile as I stand. Oh wait- you guys mentioned that too! Great tips! Thank you!!!
I recently watched some Masterclass trailers, and Usher said something cool in his: «From the moment you walk on that stage to the moment you get back stage, you have to be committed.»
Thanks for these great tips, i am in transition from worship team to a worship leader... Your videos make it less scary... I trust that since God has given me talent and desire, he will guide and protect me... Thanks again for your encouragement and wisdom..
This was a great video for me. I just began my first Worship Pastor job a couple of months ago and I am struggling with getting my volunteers to show some sort of "life" while leading worship. Many of the people in the congregation will just stand there with their arms crossed. I hope to see more life in the congregation and the worship team. I am going to share this video with my team. Thank you!
I would suggest that you make this a matter of prayer. At our church, one of our pioneer Worship Leaders said when he first attended the church 20 years ago the worship music was traditional and lifeless. He actually didn't want to be at the church but felt the Lord called him there to teach the people how to worship. His obedience to that calling, plus prayer and patience have led to the stage where our church has a far more vibrant & contemporary worship style. I suspect you will find that you have a spiritual 'battle' ahead of you, but don't be overwhelmed. Jesus will give you strength and wisdom.
Elijah, as a worship leader I also prefer to use the term lead worshiper. I do so because the pastor of the church is the true worship leader of the church and is overall responsible for leading the body into worship. Yes the Spirit of God prompts us and convicts us to worship but biblically the the one leading the worship of the church is the pastor (elder). Hope that helps!
I think the "church" gets hung up on titles. The bible says we were called for battle and also leading the singers with their musical instruments leading the praise. So we can be called praise leaders, worship leaders, leaders of worship etc... we know who our king is an his ultimate dominion over everything that we do. SO if we are playing our part and allowing the anointing he planted in us to usher in his sweet presence in the house of the lord who cares about the title? Be obedient to the holy spirit/ghost and worship and allow God to LEAD you. References used. 2 Chronicles 20:21 2 Chronicles 23:13
I am a Christian. I play drums and have served on 5 worship teams over the last 15 years (due to relocating for school and then job)...like I guess you could say high level worship teams (auditions, rehearsals, in-ears, click tracks, big productions, etc.) for larger churches. Anyway, the teams have consisted of really amazing people, musicianship, and accountability. It was a lot of fun. I have lasting relationships that I feel bring me closer to God because of the teams I was allowed to serve on. That being said, I've watched these videos about stage presence, rehearsal, song selection, etc. I've come to the conclusion that the worship leader/team model and probably even the way we do church is just not biblical. I cannot find examples in the bible of Christians gathering to hear the same paid speaker give a sermon on a stage after a paid worship leader sings songs with an unpaid team. I love the Lord. I love his Word. I guess I've just grown tired of the way church and corporate worship are done over the years. That is all. Rant over.
I would encourage you to look into the Levites and how they were given the responsibility to serve the other tribes of Israel. They had no possessions or portion, but God instructs the other tribes of Israel to give to a tithe to those "worship leaders" and this includes the pastors. This is how I believe gives biblical precedent for modern worship leaders. Personally, I find some of these videos not correct to me, but it's the internet, just take what is beneficial for you and your walk and church, and glorify God with those learnings. Different churches have convictions over how best to worship God on Sunday, and there are many points of view, and neither is better than the other. Some are purely preference, some are not (i.e. completely against what the bible teaches). You might like a more liturgical church.
@@sangkong9738 I totally agree with you. Since we have pretty much no New Testament examples of music, band, worship teams, etc. (or kids ministries, greeters, and all the rest), the best we can do is to look back at what God told his people to do in the New Testament. But while we are on that topic, it seems to me that a dedicated worship team and well-studied and consistently teaching pastor/elder is MORE biblical than a singular song-leader + organ, a choir of singers singing "specials," and a round-robin rotation of fellas in the church taking their turn throwing a sermon together. I don't think those are "straw man" examples either :)
Some people on stage are “performing for you”. But they shouldn’t be. They should be performing for God. And those in the congregation should be performing for God as well. We all worship as 1 to an audience of One. Our Job is to be a vessel of music played skillfully to encourage and to lead the congregation. The musicians in the Bible are never mentioned as performers. Let’s get it right. You guys have a huge platform
first off; thank you for doing these kinds of videos! secondly; I've been given the name "cool guitar guy" at my current home church (I promise this is NOT a title by choice; my ego is in check I swear haha) due to the fact how much I move around and and involve my entire body in the way I play. I LOVE that I get to play guitar first off; Imo it's the coolest and greatest thing ever. What's even cooler is that I get to play guitar for the King of kings. The music starts in the heart first and moves it's way to the fingers. Even when I'm not playing, I'm still moving my body in motion simply because it's the nature of who I am. This isn't me tooting my own horn but I've never had any worship leader tell me "you need to work on your stage presence." It's something that just comes naturally to me.
So as a worship leader I have went to a tablet with a foot pedal for music. The tablet attaches to my boom stand and is right inline with my mic. I don't need it all the time mostly just to get me started. Has been a revolution for me cause I agree... I severely dislike music stands and sheets of music. Good vid guys keep it up!
“You may think it’s reflective. They don’t see that.” LOL. That’s really awesome advice, thanks for sharing this. I’ve been playing in church for years, and you’ve talked about many things I’ve questioned myself over the years. Thanks again! God bless.
I simply cannot believe I am hearing this. I have been saying this for years. I am so sick of the word "performance" being used as a four-letter word because of some false sense of humility. I don't agree with everything I hear on this channel, but this video is spot on. Laziness and ineptitude are exalted while hard work and practice are denigrated. The church once created the greatest art on Earth. Now we create crap. Great video.
I do use a stand; it's more of a crutch using the music. I agree that you need to look at people in the audience. I glance at my music, then look up, try to engage someone and smile - they will always smile back, too. Good video - you guys are a blast!
Thank you for giving awesome tips! These are very practical and can be used by every worship leader around the world. May God continue to bless you all. Thank you once again.
This was awesome - I laughed so hard at what you three where saying because it is absolutely true. Sorry Fuller - your friend said it best “if Jesus is in your heart - would you please let your face know about it” LOL - that was Epic!!! This was so helpful to me - I must share this with the rest of my team. Thanks again for another gold nugget.
stage presence, appearance, production value, real/fake, Hillsong this/that, starting to sound a lot like secular rock band mentalities. But I do agree with some points like smiling and letting the congregation know that you have Jesus's love in you and showing it.
Thank you guys , this kind of tips really helping with my church's worship team here in Brazil... and I know that's still a lot of work to do.... I really enjoy your work. Keep on it...!! God bless you all !!!
ive been working on this lately. Having screens on the back wall has helped a ton with keeping my head up, singing the lyrics and not using a music stand as much. that requires relying on the person running slides though. still a work in progress but i appreciated you guys making this video!
Thank you all for this channel and your practical tips. I became a worship leader at the beginning of this year, and if it were not for your detailed tutorials of worship music, I am sure it would have been a much tougher road. I was a performer years before leading worship, and can attest to the fact that your tips for engaging the congregation are spot on. Thank you again and keep up the good work!!!
Oh my! The no sudden movement guy is also me!! I’m also the “doesn’t look at the people and gets into his own world” type of guy . I’m working on it. As the worship leader, I know I can’t always play in the back and I’ll have to play in the front stage. I’m scared actually looking at people. I’m not the only one right?
You're not the only one. I have to lead a song in church tomorrow, that's why I'm here and the comments tell me exactly that I'm in the right place. If only it could be played oyr practically, as per, right and wrong moves. Something like that.
I’ll be honest all I could think about is what character from Batman you guys would be and I think it would be from left to right Penguin, Batman, the Joker
Well, Kyle - I'm going to be honest with you. That's pretty weird. But since I'm the Joker (and in the spirit of this video)... LET'S PUT A SMILE ON THAT FACE
Usually I listen to this driving, but have to admit watching this one was much more appropriate. I'll make sure to quote you when I steal that line, Fuller. ;D
I agree with a lot of what you guys are saying but no matter what we do as worship leaders ...we should not be the focus. The Reality is if people are watching us as leaders for cues or prompts or motivation then it really is hard to focus solely on Christ. I led worship for over 30 years and I went to a worship service where the music came from behind ( kinda weird at first) and only the words were in front of people. Wow. That totally changed my perspective. You didn’t focus on people or personalities...
Thank you for making this video! I can't tell you how many arguments I've had with fellow worship team members thinking performing and/or stage presence is unimportant.
I wholeheartedly agree with everything except the performance aspect. I don't believe that we can lead and perform at the same time. Maybe if I'm doing a concert and people are paying to see my band, then I'll put on a "performance". But when I'm ushering people into the presence of the Most High, then I'm leading. Just like the horn blowers, leading Israel around the walls of Jericho. I do believe that they are very different. But the other 99% of the video was extremely helpful. Gid bless you guys and your ministry!
My little church only had a couple people that used to play in there own band.They were quickly made the worship leaders .But many people had a song on there heart or played an guitar or piano but never got included in anything because they wasn,t good enough.So every Sunday it was like come here for the entertainment .But one day an old lady wanted to sing and people loved her so up there she went. Her voice was like sand paper,just terrible you might say.But she started to sing an old time song ,the spirit took over and you never seen anything like it,People were crawling down to the alter ,crying and weeping everywhere you looked.Best service we ever had .I had really hoped that that experience would of carried over .but it didn't . Next Sunday it was come and let us entertain you.Sadly that church is a hardware store now.
I like some of your points especially worshiping away from the mic. However, I feel like we're discrediting the power of the Holy Spirit by placing so much emphasis on how we control the environment. Me personally, in the age of TH-cam I've tried to mimic what I see at these huge worship conferences, and recapture the "energy" that I experienced at one of those events, but once I freed myself from those expectations, I was able to lead more effectively and worship at our church has been awesome. I think we have to understand that if we submit to the Holy Spirit (that energy), then we're allowing our lives to be impacted right then and there. Just some food for thought, but I love what you guys do. I have learned a lot from all of what you share so keep it up!
Great points, for sure. We're more attacking this from the "I don't know what to do on stage can you help me" kinda angle. Certainly let the Holy Spirit lead you! I think until you know how to hear the Holy Spirit talk to you in those moments and how to navigate personal worship vs. leading corporate worship these are just some great starting points to make it feel and look more natural!
I see where you're coming from. Thanks for clarifying, and God bless you all for the work you're doing. It truly helps us all that head up worship ministries.
Thanks for your positive information how to be a better worship leader..I got to smile more often..lol. Thanks!! Going to try it at church more often! 😄😁😁
Interested in a deeper discussion about why closing your eyes is bad. I worship best when I close my eyes to focus on God. Should we forego our own time of worship in an attempt to connect with people who may happen to be looking at us? I mean, I suspect the vast majority of people in the congregation are looking at the lyric slides anyway, right? Thanks fellas.
Yes! I’m so glad we all agree that everyone in the band is a worship leader 😜 Now the question is, can unbelievers be worship leaders? Things that make you go “hmmmm.”
I think a cool follow up video would be something on the topic of how to maintain stage presence when things go wrong (team gets off the click, the bass is suddenly muted in the FOH, the worship leader forgot to put a capo on, etc.)
Not sure I'd use Hillsong as an example. It's about worship not worshiptainment. But I play with my music on an iPad mounted on a music stand. There's no way I can memorize it every week because it's always changing (and I'm old). But I keep the iPad low so it's not covering my face. I'm always conscious of movement so I'm not doing windmills...making sure I'm not doing a Hendrix thing playing with my teeth.
I'm not a worship leader or a musician....been a Christian many years. I love all types of worship. But it's easy to get distracted by who has the best voice the best clothes..... sometimes ego creeps in and it can become just a " performance"? I love seeing films and going to the theatre which has a Stage..it got me thinking.. should there be a " Stage" in church????
I'll include this: Often distractions do get in the way. Whether it's the production, lighting, dancing, church being too hot, cold, or just plain and simple, the band, can get in the way of corporate worship. Somethings are perfectly normal. But many of these are "above normal" and can be overkill, causing the greater distraction. What say you?
I agree to what's conveyed on the video. Music is one of God's greatest gifts and we as worship leaders can use it to influence and to draw people into worshiping(Although i've had issues with getting really expensive stuffs for music which again is church specific). Best stage presences are the ones where the people on stage are authentic. But what's your take on using special effect fogs and too much lightings on stage. I'm not against the use of music or having a good stage set. But what do you guys think about overdoing it? Is lights flickering to the rhythm of the song or the usage of special effect fogs not a bit too much? I understand that it's about feeling the energy of a song. But if we draw people just with all these fog and lightings ,are we encouraging people to follow an unhealthy worship culture wherein they expect good visuals to worship and not try to worship on their own?
I definitely see what you're asking and understand your concern. Definitely want to be careful not to overdue it but using those things can aid in setting the proper environment. We are careful not to let it become a distraction. We have moments regularly where we just sing without all of that. It brings people back to the heart of it all and reminds them the real reason we're here/there.
Bradford Mitchell Word. In my church (The Father’s House in Vacaville Ca) we will often sing the chorus of a hymn, sometimes the entire thing, and we sort of strip away the artifice for that particular moment. No IMAG. No awesome colored lights. Just lyrics on the screen, piano/pad and vocal (sometimes it builds from there.) it’s a really sweet moment. Sometimes I’d like to do that all the time. Other times I’m like, “ Rudy! (Our LD) Give is ALL OF THE LIGHTS!!!” Haha
Note about music stands: One does not need them if they know the songs by heart. A person in my circumstance does not have the time to memorize songs by heart all the time. Also, Bethel.
look at people while I'm leading is my challenge.also I always lead with me play keybord,so that I can see cord and lyrics.but I need to grow to the point where I don't look at anything.
Simply I play and sing the songs directly to The Lord, as opposed to "leading worship". The more I concentrate on that and not "oh boy I hope I hit this note/chord" the better services go. Checking your fly is an extremely complex move on stage, involving subtleties that have to be executed perfectly. 😆
Why it seems that Performing Art vs Real GOD's Presence are in battle. And as long as the stage remains a stage and not an ALTAR, it is a show business. Is this how you guys see the fact? The worship technology has been so advanced the bushmen tribe will be so startled and amazed.
All sounds good but for those of us who come to be playing electric guitar in church from a classical guitar music-dependent background....very difficult to know what chord's next in a sequence! I absolutely hate being chord-sheet dependent while I'm playing. Soooo much faff and frustration dealing with sheets of paper all the time. What do I do to get chord sheet free??! I suppose I just have to keep practising playing along to songs without chord sheets? Anything else that can help me? Please help me divorce from my music stand! David (UK)
Love it! This is a great resource that I can share with my time. I don't notice this in your other videos so I don't think it's a problem but this video was a little hard to watch at times because of some of the rabbit trails. Just a friendly suggestion. Great stuff!
Totally agree. I guess the problem with me as the only electric guitarist, I have to fulfill the role of multiple ones and keys at the same time, so it gets to be a bit overwhelming at times, rarely but it does happen. Also because if that I feel very self conscious about my playing, even though I’m told I’m great at what I do, I feel like I’m overpowering the songs or killing the mood, and all those thoughts distract me from worshiping, and it’s harder than it sounds to let it go. Any suggestions???
Man I think if no one (worship leader, other band members, sound guy, etc.) is saying you’re overplaying you should just keep at it! Maybe ask em sometime what they think and then just don’t worry about it anymore unless they say something to you! Just be confident that if no one says anything you must be doing awesome :)
I play cello and at this point really need my music, not sure when or if that will change but I notice in recordings that I am concentrating on the notes and not smiling or you can't tell cause I am looking at the music. Any suggestion, trying to sing when I don't know the words can also be a problem because i can loose my place on the music.
This is something that I really struggle with. Ive been given feedback on how stoic and tense I look on stage when I lead. I lead from an acoustic guitar and I find it hard to move around a lot while playing guitar. Do you have any practical tips or I'm curious if you would ever upload a video of clips leading worship and being engaging? Thanks
Thank you for your reply.I asked this because I have heard many people including teachers (pastors) say that the worship leader or the whole worship team do not lead people into God’s presence but it is individual’s heart and God himself that lead them into God’s presence. In another word, worship leaders are not the bridge between God and the people.
absolutely. we are not saying that we are *literally* leading people into God's presence. God absolutely does that. We are there to facilitate that moment. Worship leaders started in the tribe of Levi. They led the way in to battle and went before the people. As worship leaders, we lead the way during congregational singing/worship time!
I personally think stage presence is overrated. I think just be yourself, don't try to be something you are not. Be real and your worship will shine through.
Hey Bradford, what's up with those contrasty pocket tshirts? Are they reversible? Did you make them? I see a bunch of different ones on your vids. Just kidding bro, you've taught me a lot!
When my first day on leading worship on stages I’m soooo nervous 😬. Hahaha 😂😂 Until now nothing is changed. I dont know why. It’s been 3 yrs from now still nervous 😟. Will u please help me wat to do....😧
Darling Victors I’d say a large part of being nervous for me is not being as prepared as I need to be. Do you feel you could prepare more? Maybe that could help :)
Unfortunately, it is our "worship leader" that is showing how carnal he can be. He behaves like a tinpot dictator, and his only focus is promoting his granddaughter. Add to this mess the fact that he is nearly stone deaf, the music is SO loud and it's driving people out of our church. He is a huge "Poser", and it really is tearing the team down, and apart. Pray for us.
![Worship Leader Training | Reading and Leading the Room [Gateway Worship Training]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/cFsbcAzD6lo/mqdefault.jpg)
"If Jesus is in your heart, would you please let your face know about it." Love it!!!
such a good word
Not needed though. Its cultural. "Let your fruits show it" would be more Biblical.... Many people fake the face really well and aim for the looks. ( Christians of some ethnic groups look grumpy most of the time, so?)
That's the problem with modern American Christianity - looks over fruits and substance...
@@onepersonmusic, I totally get what you're saying. However, I also don't want my team up on stage looking bored or frustrated as they worship Jesus. Shouldn't we be having fun??? That's all I'm trying to say. I think that's what the guys at WT are trying to say.
@@theworshipbunker Any human being will not be bored or frustrated. as they worship Jesus.
And even if, it SUBJECTIVELY LOOKS as such to another person , so be it - lets not fake anything!
And no, its not about "having fun", we are not supposed to "have fun". Did Isaiah "have fun" ? John, Peter, 24 elders and on and on..???
My Wife and I are LOLing so hard at “you’d be surprised at how angry you look”. She says every Sunday I look like somebody stole my cheeseburger when I’m on stage.
karl catigbe lol my sister tells me that i look like someone insulted my mom when i’m on stage lol
I scowl when I look at my music.
I’m in an unusual situation where as a woman I play lead-rhythm electric guitar & sometimes sing background. I smile, move, clap & raise my hands completely worshipping in circular motion between the congregation, God, me and back again. It’s awesome to me. We all have the ability to project to the congregation, “He am I Lord, send me!”
Thank you so much for this video! I’m 14 and I am a worship leader at my school and if I’m being completely honest, the students aren’t very engaged. This helped so much! I feel like God is gonna do some amazing work for our worship team and the students this coming school year. Keep up the worship tutorial videos
YES YES YES YES!!!!!
worship leaders, be real, be true, let go of what people may think of you. Just worship! AND DEFINITELY make sure fly is up😂😂
And I'm stealing Fuller's line... "If the joy of the Lord is in your heart, notify your face. "
Best line EVER!!
I love that, "If the joy of the Lord is in your heart, then please notify your face" or "If Jesus is in your heart, would you please let your face know about it." Nice! I have a face that looks "mad" until I smile. So I have to make a point to remember that and smile as I stand. Oh wait- you guys mentioned that too! Great tips! Thank you!!!
I recently watched some Masterclass trailers, and Usher said something cool in his:
«From the moment you walk on that stage to the moment you get back stage, you have to be committed.»
Thanks for these great tips, i am in transition from worship team to a worship leader... Your videos make it less scary... I trust that since God has given me talent and desire, he will guide and protect me... Thanks again for your encouragement and wisdom..
how has it gone for you? I start with my first lead this month...(and I don't play an instrument)
So? How’s it going?
This was a great video for me. I just began my first Worship Pastor job a couple of months ago and I am struggling with getting my volunteers to show some sort of "life" while leading worship. Many of the people in the congregation will just stand there with their arms crossed. I hope to see more life in the congregation and the worship team. I am going to share this video with my team. Thank you!
I would suggest that you make this a matter of prayer. At our church, one of our pioneer Worship Leaders said when he first attended the church 20 years ago the worship music was traditional and lifeless. He actually didn't want to be at the church but felt the Lord called him there to teach the people how to worship. His obedience to that calling, plus prayer and patience have led to the stage where our church has a far more vibrant & contemporary worship style. I suspect you will find that you have a spiritual 'battle' ahead of you, but don't be overwhelmed. Jesus will give you strength and wisdom.
Zach Mason Has
Some one at my church says that we are not worship leaders, we are lead worshipers. She says God leads people in worship. Agree?
Elijah M. Amen!
Elijah, as a worship leader I also prefer to use the term lead worshiper. I do so because the pastor of the church is the true worship leader of the church and is overall responsible for leading the body into worship. Yes the Spirit of God prompts us and convicts us to worship but biblically the the one leading the worship of the church is the pastor (elder). Hope that helps!
All I can say is those pple know nothing about worship.
Sam, sorry, I totally disagree.
I think the "church" gets hung up on titles. The bible says we were called for battle and also leading the singers with their musical instruments leading the praise. So we can be called praise leaders, worship leaders, leaders of worship etc... we know who our king is an his ultimate dominion over everything that we do. SO if we are playing our part and allowing the anointing he planted in us to usher in his sweet presence in the house of the lord who cares about the title? Be obedient to the holy spirit/ghost and worship and allow God to LEAD you.
References used.
2 Chronicles 20:21
2 Chronicles 23:13
I am a Christian. I play drums and have served on 5 worship teams over the last 15 years (due to relocating for school and then job)...like I guess you could say high level worship teams (auditions, rehearsals, in-ears, click tracks, big productions, etc.) for larger churches. Anyway, the teams have consisted of really amazing people, musicianship, and accountability. It was a lot of fun. I have lasting relationships that I feel bring me closer to God because of the teams I was allowed to serve on. That being said, I've watched these videos about stage presence, rehearsal, song selection, etc. I've come to the conclusion that the worship leader/team model and probably even the way we do church is just not biblical. I cannot find examples in the bible of Christians gathering to hear the same paid speaker give a sermon on a stage after a paid worship leader sings songs with an unpaid team. I love the Lord. I love his Word. I guess I've just grown tired of the way church and corporate worship are done over the years. That is all. Rant over.
I would encourage you to look into the Levites and how they were given the responsibility to serve the other tribes of Israel. They had no possessions or portion, but God instructs the other tribes of Israel to give to a tithe to those "worship leaders" and this includes the pastors. This is how I believe gives biblical precedent for modern worship leaders. Personally, I find some of these videos not correct to me, but it's the internet, just take what is beneficial for you and your walk and church, and glorify God with those learnings. Different churches have convictions over how best to worship God on Sunday, and there are many points of view, and neither is better than the other. Some are purely preference, some are not (i.e. completely against what the bible teaches). You might like a more liturgical church.
@@sangkong9738 I totally agree with you. Since we have pretty much no New Testament examples of music, band, worship teams, etc. (or kids ministries, greeters, and all the rest), the best we can do is to look back at what God told his people to do in the New Testament. But while we are on that topic, it seems to me that a dedicated worship team and well-studied and consistently teaching pastor/elder is MORE biblical than a singular song-leader + organ, a choir of singers singing "specials," and a round-robin rotation of fellas in the church taking their turn throwing a sermon together. I don't think those are "straw man" examples either :)
Some people on stage are “performing for you”. But they shouldn’t be. They should be performing for God. And those in the congregation should be performing for God as well. We all worship as 1 to an audience of One. Our Job is to be a vessel of music played skillfully to encourage and to lead the congregation. The musicians in the Bible are never mentioned as performers. Let’s get it right. You guys have a huge platform
first off; thank you for doing these kinds of videos! secondly; I've been given the name "cool guitar guy" at my current home church (I promise this is NOT a title by choice; my ego is in check I swear haha) due to the fact how much I move around and and involve my entire body in the way I play. I LOVE that I get to play guitar first off; Imo it's the coolest and greatest thing ever. What's even cooler is that I get to play guitar for the King of kings. The music starts in the heart first and moves it's way to the fingers. Even when I'm not playing, I'm still moving my body in motion simply because it's the nature of who I am. This isn't me tooting my own horn but I've never had any worship leader tell me "you need to work on your stage presence." It's something that just comes naturally to me.
So as a worship leader I have went to a tablet with a foot pedal for music. The tablet attaches to my boom stand and is right inline with my mic. I don't need it all the time mostly just to get me started. Has been a revolution for me cause I agree... I severely dislike music stands and sheets of music. Good vid guys keep it up!
“You may think it’s reflective. They don’t see that.” LOL. That’s really awesome advice, thanks for sharing this. I’ve been playing in church for years, and you’ve talked about many things I’ve questioned myself over the years. Thanks again! God bless.
I simply cannot believe I am hearing this. I have been saying this for years. I am so sick of the word "performance" being used as a four-letter word because of some false sense of humility. I don't agree with everything I hear on this channel, but this video is spot on.
Laziness and ineptitude are exalted while hard work and practice are denigrated. The church once created the greatest art on Earth. Now we create crap. Great video.
I do use a stand; it's more of a crutch using the music. I agree that you need to look at people in the audience. I glance at my music, then look up, try to engage someone and smile - they will always smile back, too. Good video - you guys are a blast!
Thank you for giving awesome tips! These are very practical and can be used by every worship leader around the world. May God continue to bless you all. Thank you once again.
I’m so using the “notify your face” line!!!
This was awesome - I laughed so hard at what you three where saying because it is absolutely true. Sorry Fuller - your friend said it best “if Jesus is in your heart - would you please let your face know about it” LOL - that was Epic!!! This was so helpful to me - I must share this with the rest of my team. Thanks again for another gold nugget.
stage presence, appearance, production value, real/fake, Hillsong this/that, starting to sound a lot like secular rock band mentalities. But I do agree with some points like smiling and letting the congregation know that you have Jesus's love in you and showing it.
Thank you guys , this kind of tips really helping with my church's worship team here in Brazil... and I know that's still a lot of work to do.... I really enjoy your work. Keep on it...!! God bless you all !!!
This is GOLD! Thank you!! I’ve been longing for this type of video and totally agree 🔥
ive been working on this lately. Having screens on the back wall has helped a ton with keeping my head up, singing the lyrics and not using a music stand as much. that requires relying on the person running slides though. still a work in progress but i appreciated you guys making this video!
Thank you guys 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻so many blessings From Duncan Arizona
Thank you all for this channel and your practical tips. I became a worship leader at the beginning of this year, and if it were not for your detailed tutorials of worship music, I am sure it would have been a much tougher road. I was a performer years before leading worship, and can attest to the fact that your tips for engaging the congregation are spot on. Thank you again and keep up the good work!!!
Wow great analogy. They're the thermometer and we're the thermostat
Oh my! The no sudden movement guy is also me!! I’m also the “doesn’t look at the people and gets into his own world” type of guy . I’m working on it. As the worship leader, I know I can’t always play in the back and I’ll have to play in the front stage. I’m scared actually looking at people. I’m not the only one right?
You're not the only one. I have to lead a song in church tomorrow, that's why I'm here and the comments tell me exactly that I'm in the right place. If only it could be played oyr practically, as per, right and wrong moves. Something like that.
I’ll be honest all I could think about is what character from Batman you guys would be and I think it would be from left to right
Penguin, Batman, the Joker
Well, Kyle - I'm going to be honest with you. That's pretty weird. But since I'm the Joker (and in the spirit of this video)... LET'S PUT A SMILE ON THAT FACE
Dang I’m penguin!!! Can I at least be Robin
Everything you guys said was great. You actually made me smile when you were talking about it. Loved the video. Thank you.
Usually I listen to this driving, but have to admit watching this one was much more appropriate. I'll make sure to quote you when I steal that line, Fuller. ;D
Brian please give us more tips on how to speak in between songs, I'll be glad if you make more videos on this
I agree with a lot of what you guys are saying but no matter what we do as worship leaders ...we should not be the focus. The Reality is if people are watching us as leaders for cues or prompts or motivation then it really is hard to focus solely on Christ. I led worship for over 30 years and I went to a worship service where the music came from behind ( kinda weird at first) and only the words were in front of people. Wow. That totally changed my perspective. You didn’t focus on people or personalities...
Thank you for making this video! I can't tell you how many arguments I've had with fellow worship team members thinking performing and/or stage presence is unimportant.
I wholeheartedly agree with everything except the performance aspect. I don't believe that we can lead and perform at the same time. Maybe if I'm doing a concert and people are paying to see my band, then I'll put on a "performance". But when I'm ushering people into the presence of the Most High, then I'm leading. Just like the horn blowers, leading Israel around the walls of Jericho. I do believe that they are very different. But the other 99% of the video was extremely helpful. Gid bless you guys and your ministry!
Motion breeds emotion. Great video.
You guys should make a video about worship atmosphere. Lights on vs lights off. How does the atmosphere change based on the situation you are in.
My stage presence is so powerful people know what I'm thinking.
My little church only had a couple people that used to play in there own band.They were quickly made the worship leaders .But many people had a song on there heart or played an guitar or piano but never got included in anything because they wasn,t good enough.So every Sunday it was like come here for the entertainment .But one day an old lady wanted to sing and people loved her so up there she went. Her voice was like sand paper,just terrible you might say.But she started to sing an old time song ,the spirit took over and you never seen anything like it,People were crawling down to the alter ,crying and weeping everywhere you looked.Best service we ever had .I had really hoped that that experience would of carried over .but it didn't . Next Sunday it was come and let us entertain you.Sadly that church is a hardware store now.
@ 3:43 yesssss....Ive been saying this for years to my worship team !!!
I like some of your points especially worshiping away from the mic. However, I feel like we're discrediting the power of the Holy Spirit by placing so much emphasis on how we control the environment. Me personally, in the age of TH-cam I've tried to mimic what I see at these huge worship conferences, and recapture the "energy" that I experienced at one of those events, but once I freed myself from those expectations, I was able to lead more effectively and worship at our church has been awesome. I think we have to understand that if we submit to the Holy Spirit (that energy), then we're allowing our lives to be impacted right then and there.
Just some food for thought, but I love what you guys do. I have learned a lot from all of what you share so keep it up!
Great points, for sure. We're more attacking this from the "I don't know what to do on stage can you help me" kinda angle. Certainly let the Holy Spirit lead you! I think until you know how to hear the Holy Spirit talk to you in those moments and how to navigate personal worship vs. leading corporate worship these are just some great starting points to make it feel and look more natural!
I see where you're coming from. Thanks for clarifying, and God bless you all for the work you're doing. It truly helps us all that head up worship ministries.
Thanks for your positive information how to be a better worship leader..I got to smile more often..lol. Thanks!! Going to try it at church more often! 😄😁😁
Interested in a deeper discussion about why closing your eyes is bad. I worship best when I close my eyes to focus on God. Should we forego our own time of worship in an attempt to connect with people who may happen to be looking at us? I mean, I suspect the vast majority of people in the congregation are looking at the lyric slides anyway, right?
Thanks fellas.
Smiling! Thank you
Thank you for this video! Love practicality that helps bring better spiritual moments.
So that is a no to a banana costume?
🍌🍌
It depends on the culture of your church. 🍌
Yes! I’m so glad we all agree that everyone in the band is a worship leader 😜 Now the question is, can unbelievers be worship leaders?
Things that make you go “hmmmm.”
Seriously though, great video guys! I wholeheartedly agree with 93% of what was said 😘
Are we gonna ignore the middle guy doing the cleanest mcjagger whistle?
yeah love the performance aspect ...
I think a cool follow up video would be something on the topic of how to maintain stage presence when things go wrong (team gets off the click, the bass is suddenly muted in the FOH, the worship leader forgot to put a capo on, etc.)
Not sure I'd use Hillsong as an example. It's about worship not worshiptainment. But I play with my music on an iPad mounted on a music stand. There's no way I can memorize it every week because it's always changing (and I'm old). But I keep the iPad low so it's not covering my face. I'm always conscious of movement so I'm not doing windmills...making sure I'm not doing a Hendrix thing playing with my teeth.
I'm not a worship leader or a musician....been a Christian many years. I love all types of worship. But it's easy to get distracted by who has the best voice the best clothes..... sometimes ego creeps in and it can become just a " performance"? I love seeing films and going to the theatre which has a Stage..it got me thinking.. should there be a " Stage" in church????
Thanks a lot 😄😄 It's my pleasure to see this video
When practicing stage presence, put a mirror in front of you and look at it when going through your moves, whether singing or playing an instrument.
I'll include this: Often distractions do get in the way. Whether it's the production, lighting, dancing, church being too hot, cold, or just plain and simple, the band, can get in the way of corporate worship. Somethings are perfectly normal. But many of these are "above normal" and can be overkill, causing the greater distraction. What say you?
Thanks! I’m going to talk about this in my worship team on friday. This was very informative, bless!
You guys are spot on! Great job!
I agree to what's conveyed on the video. Music is one of God's greatest gifts and we as worship leaders can use it to influence and to draw people into worshiping(Although i've had issues with getting really expensive stuffs for music which again is church specific). Best stage presences are the ones where the people on stage are authentic. But what's your take on using special effect fogs and too much lightings on stage. I'm not against the use of music or having a good stage set. But what do you guys think about overdoing it? Is lights flickering to the rhythm of the song or the usage of special effect fogs not a bit too much? I understand that it's about feeling the energy of a song. But if we draw people just with all these fog and lightings ,are we encouraging people to follow an unhealthy worship culture wherein they expect good visuals to worship and not try to worship on their own?
Nah
I definitely see what you're asking and understand your concern. Definitely want to be careful not to overdue it but using those things can aid in setting the proper environment. We are careful not to let it become a distraction. We have moments regularly where we just sing without all of that. It brings people back to the heart of it all and reminds them the real reason we're here/there.
Bradford Mitchell Word. In my church (The Father’s House in Vacaville Ca) we will often sing the chorus of a hymn, sometimes the entire thing, and we sort of strip away the artifice for that particular moment. No IMAG. No awesome colored lights. Just lyrics on the screen, piano/pad and vocal (sometimes it builds from there.) it’s a really sweet moment. Sometimes I’d like to do that all the time. Other times I’m like, “ Rudy! (Our LD) Give is ALL OF THE LIGHTS!!!” Haha
but most of the time i see Brian Johnson of Bethel, with a very serious mask and people indulge very well into worship
Exceptions to every rule.
Worship leading... This video is great at addressing LEADING well =]
I always watch drummers. They have the most fun haha!!!
Great video, great points!!
This was so great, so many lol’s and so practical
Note about music stands: One does not need them if they know the songs by heart. A person in my circumstance does not have the time to memorize songs by heart all the time.
Also, Bethel.
look at people while I'm leading is my challenge.also I always lead with me play keybord,so that I can see cord and lyrics.but I need to grow to the point where I don't look at anything.
Thanks guys - some helpful info in this vid.
Jesus: ok guys let's work on our stage engagement next....🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄
Watch an old Stevie Ray Vaughan concert, especially after he got saved and sober. That's insane stage presence.
Simply I play and sing the songs directly to The Lord, as opposed to "leading worship". The more I concentrate on that and not "oh boy I hope I hit this note/chord" the better services go. Checking your fly is an extremely complex move on stage, involving subtleties that have to be executed perfectly. 😆
Why it seems that Performing Art vs Real GOD's Presence are in battle. And as long as the stage remains a stage and not an ALTAR, it is a show business. Is this how you guys see the fact? The worship technology has been so advanced the bushmen tribe will be so startled and amazed.
I love this video! Thanks guys
All sounds good but for those of us who come to be playing electric guitar in church from a classical guitar music-dependent background....very difficult to know what chord's next in a sequence! I absolutely hate being chord-sheet dependent while I'm playing. Soooo much faff and frustration dealing with sheets of paper all the time. What do I do to get chord sheet free??! I suppose I just have to keep practising playing along to songs without chord sheets? Anything else that can help me? Please help me divorce from my music stand! David (UK)
This helped me a lot thank you so much WT
Right on Guys!
Love it! This is a great resource that I can share with my time.
I don't notice this in your other videos so I don't think it's a problem but this video was a little hard to watch at times because of some of the rabbit trails. Just a friendly suggestion. Great stuff!
Bradford was channeling a little bit of Rebecca Black’s “Friday” at the end.
Justin Zak glad someone caught it ;)
Super helpful. I’ve found myself “shoe gazing” sometimes! Thx guys!!
I could use the advice about stage pressence
5:22 if your stage presence is lacking... maybe you should be made uncomfortable... so you grow
Totally agree. I guess the problem with me as the only electric guitarist, I have to fulfill the role of multiple ones and keys at the same time, so it gets to be a bit overwhelming at times, rarely but it does happen. Also because if that I feel very self conscious about my playing, even though I’m told I’m great at what I do, I feel like I’m overpowering the songs or killing the mood, and all those thoughts distract me from worshiping, and it’s harder than it sounds to let it go. Any suggestions???
Man I think if no one (worship leader, other band members, sound guy, etc.) is saying you’re overplaying you should just keep at it! Maybe ask em sometime what they think and then just don’t worry about it anymore unless they say something to you! Just be confident that if no one says anything you must be doing awesome :)
I play cello and at this point really need my music, not sure when or if that will change but I notice in recordings that I am concentrating on the notes and not smiling or you can't tell cause I am looking at the music. Any suggestion, trying to sing when I don't know the words can also be a problem because i can loose my place on the music.
This was great
This is something that I really struggle with. Ive been given feedback on how stoic and tense I look on stage when I lead. I lead from an acoustic guitar and I find it hard to move around a lot while playing guitar. Do you have any practical tips or I'm curious if you would ever upload a video of clips leading worship and being engaging? Thanks
How can I practice and prepare on my own before rehearsal, in a way that I know I’m completely ready.
I apply it tommorow .
Also the Hillsong guy's name is JD ;)
No debate here, no music stands.. we memorize our stuff:)
Is it the worship leader that leads people into God’s presence?
I believe everybody who plays a part in creating a worship experience is part of that leading.
Thank you for your reply.I asked this because I have heard many people including teachers (pastors) say that the worship leader or the whole worship team do not lead people into God’s presence but it is individual’s heart and God himself that lead them into God’s presence. In another word, worship leaders are not the bridge between God and the people.
absolutely. we are not saying that we are *literally* leading people into God's presence. God absolutely does that. We are there to facilitate that moment. Worship leaders started in the tribe of Levi. They led the way in to battle and went before the people. As worship leaders, we lead the way during congregational singing/worship time!
Thanks for the explanation Bradford. That really clarified my confusion. Hope to see you on the next the worship leader Wednesday.
I personally think stage presence is overrated. I think just be yourself, don't try to be something you are not. Be real and your worship will shine through.
Hey Bradford, what's up with those contrasty pocket tshirts? Are they reversible? Did you make them? I see a bunch of different ones on your vids. Just kidding bro, you've taught me a lot!
Jeff Lively haha just like a good contrasty pocket tee dude!!! 😂
Tip.. make sure your phone flashlight is off in your pocket.
Have good posture and get your hands out of your pockets.
When my first day on leading worship on stages I’m soooo nervous 😬.
Hahaha 😂😂
Until now nothing is changed. I dont know why. It’s been 3 yrs from now still nervous 😟.
Will u please help me wat to do....😧
Darling Victors I’d say a large part of being nervous for me is not being as prepared as I need to be. Do you feel you could prepare more? Maybe that could help :)
Bradford Mitchell thank you 🙏
Amen 🙏
Maybe ur right. I need to focus more on Jesus
Really. The last 10 seconds can sum up this video
You should smile more, you'll get more tips
on the music stand issue, what do you suggest if the worship leader needs it? He can't memorize and is limited on what he can play
What are some examples of songs that are not doctrinally sound?
+Worship Tutorials what is your opinion on worship leaders (singers) leading barefoot? [Especially guys]
First.
Bradford Mitchell second
Almost third but really not quite
Bradford Mitchell 27th
Tina Woodworth ?
Tina Woodworth I was just kidding....
that is why you have to check the musicians you put in the band many are those are not worshipping many of them are carnal
Unfortunately, it is our "worship leader" that is showing how carnal he can be. He behaves like a tinpot dictator, and his only focus is promoting his granddaughter. Add to this mess the fact that he is nearly stone deaf, the music is SO loud and it's driving people out of our church. He is a huge "Poser", and it really is tearing the team down, and apart. Pray for us.
Lol uguys r funny, Yes, check the fly, always
Oh damn, this was amazing. :D Thank you guys for your inspiring content!
8Henny8 maybe you shouldn't use profanity?
@@KyleHurd Hell no he shouldn't.
8Henny8 probably shouldn’t use the foul language