tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63580775269292144102024-03-12T20:04:38.923-07:00ZimmermanPractical tips and tools for worship leaders, music news, and thoughts on loving the messy church.
From a little band in a little city writing songs about big things.Zimmermanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13290750188325873620noreply@blogger.comBlogger185125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6358077526929214410.post-88252379317936291452014-10-27T12:23:00.000-07:002014-12-20T12:23:49.561-08:00We've Moved!Greetings. This blog has permanently moved to: <a href="http://zimmermanband.com/">ZimmermanBand.com</a><br />
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Update your bookmarks and we'll see you soon.Zimmermanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13290750188325873620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6358077526929214410.post-7756005590444064262014-09-24T12:32:00.001-07:002014-09-24T14:21:13.056-07:00"Hopefully Broken" Releases October 14th<h2>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br />It's finally here. Our new 8-song record releases online on Tuesday, October 14th. We couldn't be happier with it and are excited for all of you to hear it. <br /><br />First crack will go to our faithful <a href="https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/zimmerman/zimmerman-records-the-hopefully-broken-album" target="_blank">Kickstarter backers</a>, and in fact we are trying to get you fine folks a digital download by this week's end.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The release party will happen at <a href="http://livingstoneschurches.com/" target="_blank">Living Stones Church</a> in downtown Reno at <a href="https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/zimmerman/zimmerman-records-the-hopefully-broken-album" target="_blank">445 S. Virginia St</a> on Friday, October 17th at 7pm. Our good friends "<a href="http://oliversorgan.tumblr.com/" target="_blank">Oliver's Organ</a>" will be opening that evening. <br /><br />Entry to the release party is FREE, but a suggested donation of $5 will get you a discount at the merch table. We'll have physical copies of the album for sale as well as brand new shirts made of the finest blend of natural materials on God's green earth.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">To all those that played a part along the way, we owe you our thanks, we offer you our gratitude, and we pledge to you an evening you wont forget.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Let's party.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url("data:image/png; border: medium none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 153px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 76px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Zimmermanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13290750188325873620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6358077526929214410.post-56459154518170640882014-09-10T11:43:00.002-07:002014-09-16T11:50:40.209-07:00Set List 9/7/2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This past Sunday was our <a href="http://thisisreno.com/2014/08/living-stones-church-celebrates-reopening/" target="_blank">Grand Re-Opening</a> of our Reno Church Building. Its been under construction for the past 4 months, so it was really humbling to be able to dedicate our church to Jesus and to serving the city of Reno.</div>
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Jesus! - <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/citizens/id649048273" target="_blank">Citizens and Saints</a>. </div>
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<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/king-of-love/id697126496" target="_blank">Nothing But The Blood</a>- arranged by Zimmerman, written by Robert Lowery</div>
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Grace Greater- music/arranged by <a href="http://zimmermanband.com/" target="_blank">Zimmerman</a>, words by Julia Johnson </div>
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The Living Stone - <a href="http://zimmermanband.com/" target="_blank">Zimmerman</a></div>
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God Undefeatable - <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/austin-stone-live/id482639306" target="_blank">Austin Stone</a></div>
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Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6358077526929214410.post-79135795462958043152014-08-21T10:31:00.000-07:002014-08-27T09:52:06.102-07:00Set list 8/17/2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So this week at our Reno Location, we hosted an outdoor service at Wingfield Park in downtown Reno. The coolest part about it was that over 50 people were baptized that day in the Truckee River.<br />
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Because of the evangelistic push on the message and the lack of projector for the lyrics, we were highly intentional about picking songs we knew our congregation was the most familiar with. Overall, definitely a day for the books.<br />
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<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/the-water-the-blood/id697069072" target="_blank">Rejoice</a>- Dustin Kensrue and Stuart Townsend<br />
<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/already-not-yet-ep/id524832233" target="_blank">In Tenderness</a>- Citizens</div>
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<a href="http://zimmermanband.com/" target="_blank">The Living Stone</a>-arrangement by Zimmerman</div>
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<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/hello/id260097654" target="_blank">Jesus Paid It All</a>- Kristian Stanfill (arrangement by <a href="http://zimmermanband.com/" target="_blank">Zimmerman</a>)</div>
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<br />Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6358077526929214410.post-19627070512109781582014-08-14T13:36:00.003-07:002014-08-27T09:52:47.237-07:00Set List 8/10/2014<br />
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I have received requests regularly about what songs we play on Sundays. I'll do my best to post set-lists here. This week here at the <a href="http://www.livingstoneschurches.com/index.php/reno-church/" target="_blank">Reno location</a> of Living Stones, <a href="http://zimmermanband.com/" target="_blank">Zimmerman</a> introduced a new song to our congregation, <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/borderland/id819411885" target="_blank">Future/Past by John Mark McMillan</a> (you can watch it <a href="http://youtu.be/yGNznfexvUA">here</a>).<br />
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<a href="http://zimmermanband.com/" target="_blank">Grace Greater</a> - Zimmerman - (available on our new record this fall)</div>
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<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/austin-stone-live/id482639306" target="_blank">God Undefeatable</a> - Austin Stone</div>
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<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/future-past-single/id794612086" target="_blank">Future/Past </a>- John Mark McMillan</div>
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<a href="http://zimmermanband.com/" target="_blank">Pour Me Out</a> - Zimmerman (not recorded)</div>
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<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/the-water-and-the-blood/id433222852" target="_blank">Absent From Flesh</a> - Sojourn</div>
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<br />Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6358077526929214410.post-82746943206208846242014-08-08T15:09:00.000-07:002014-08-27T09:43:22.093-07:00Worship Ministry Essentials - Part 3: Bring your ID<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">After meandering through the corn maze of ropes and suitcases on wheels, you finally approach the counter. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The ticket agent is distracted. You throw your luggage on the scales, waiting for her attention. Anxiously, you check the time, glance at the container of unused bag tags and the pen chained to the counter, then back at the time again. Finally, she turns and asks the most important question of the day. No matter what you've paid or sacrificed to be standing here now, your response will determine your destiny. <br /><br /><i>"Can I see your ID?"</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Whether your traveling, heading into a warzone, grabbing concert tickets at will-call, or using your credit card to buy a <strike>really old</strike> new vinyl record, your ID is an essential item that goes with you everywhere. The same is true for the worship stage.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Continuing in our series about the most important facets of worship ministry, this time around we'll look at why gospel identity is important for all believers, but especially essential for those in worship ministry.<br /><br /><b>WHY IDENTITY MATTERS</b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />Jesus repeatedly point out that who we are must precede what we do. We get into dangerous territory when "what" comes before "who"</span></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">. Keller addresses the difficulty of doing ministry without a clear picture of identity: </span><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); border: 0px none; margin: 0px; outline: 0px none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />"At
one level we believe the gospel that we are saved by grace not works,
but at a deeper level we don’t believe it much at all. We are still
trying to create our own righteousness through spiritual performance,
albeit one that is sanctioned by our call to ministry.”</span></span></i></span> </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">You can't do <i>what</i> God has called you to, without a clear understanding of <i>who</i> he has called you to be. Paul Tripp adds this:<br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #222222; line-height: 22px;">"I
will either get my identity vertically, from who I am in Christ, or I
will shop for it horizontally in the situations, experiences, and
relationships of my daily life. This is true of everyone, but I am
convinced that pastors are particularly tempted to seek their identity
horizontally.</span><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="line-height: 22px;">” </span></span></span></span></i><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: proxima-nova, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span style="line-height: 22px;"> </span></span><br />So before we jump in, lets briefly define gospel identity:<br /><br /><span style="color: #999999;">Gospel identity is the recognition in the believer </span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #999999;">that they have been created by God, participated in the Adam's rebellion in nature and action, atoned for by Christ when he died in their place for their sins, and now belong forever in God's family, both during current sanctification and in the future in God's perfect heaven.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>WHO YOU ARE (AND WHO YOU ARE NOT</b>)<br />Worship leaders have several fake IDs they can reach for. We can try to emulate our mentors or heroes in the worship world. We can try to be what we think the people we're leading want us to be. We can try to play the role of mediator, carrying the weight of connecting the congregation to their Maker. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Knowing your gospel identity will put guardrails between you and the deadly cliffs of being anything outside of what God has asked of you. Rather than entertaining God's apathetic sheep like a rockstar, you can pastor them through tough Sundays because you are a shepherd. When you don't see yourself as the God-man standing between creator and creation, you can lead your people faithfully as a worship leader rather than a worship mediator. </span><span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); border: 0px none; margin: 0px; outline: 0px none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span></i><i style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); border: 0px none; margin: 0px; outline: 0px none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"></i><br />Additionally, if <i>you</i> don't expect to be impressive or perfect, then feedback from your staff or volunteers won't be crushing, because they aren't shattering the fragile glass ornament of your ego. Instead those remarks are received as constructive and useful for consideration in our growth.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">AN EASY AND ESSENTIAL CHALLENGE</span></b><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Knowing and believing that you are forgiven and under God's grace will drastically change how you lead on stage. You'll be free to express gratitude, brokenness, and joy on stage because you aren't captive to the opinions of others. You can rest knowing that God's work moves on despite your imperfect execution or that moment you forgot the lyrics to verse two. </span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Jesus repeatedly points out that who we are must precede what we do. </span>So then, who are we? We're broken people that God delights in using.</span><b><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></b><span style="font-size: large;">We are treasured sons and daughters in His family. We are servants to the highest king to have ever taken a throne.</span><b><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></b><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">There's certainly a lot more to be said on this topic, but for the sake of brevity remember: we can't lead others in worship very effectively if we don't first know who we are. Knowing our identity gives us reason to sing ourselves and the boldness to ask others to do the same. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">No matter how long you have led worship (and I would argue the longer you've led the more likely you are to err on this issue), I'd challenge you to do something simple. Next Sunday, just before you take the stage, check your ID. In those last moments while people are finding their seats or the pastor on stage is making announcements, whisper to God, "I am yours, and I belong to you". Remember who Christ is and who you are too.</span>Zimmermanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13290750188325873620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6358077526929214410.post-26421406710658943502014-07-15T14:05:00.001-07:002014-07-15T14:06:48.918-07:00For Every Worship Leader...I watched this when it first took a lap around the internet, and today I realized that every worship leader I know would be reminded that we should speak with clarity and conviction when leading God's people. This is why all our worship leaders are asked to write out spoken transitions in advance.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/SCNIBV87wV4" width="420"></iframe>Zimmermanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13290750188325873620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6358077526929214410.post-85240156421998893602014-07-06T14:34:00.000-07:002014-07-06T15:05:41.482-07:00Home From Austin!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1oiy0awDMUljMgkoG-J-PxxHAGP8vich1PL7gRlKBdCpHOgKOxWk-1ckm5X32RTyj5P3UotQFnU2YcfEyTsbZ3FZy76xDt6nh3mQCVlYcAV44YJfClhBO_HeYGQBdMPlB553HRYusoT8/s1600/roomMIC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Well, we're happy to say that we have returned from tracking eight songs for our new record, "Hopefully Broken" in the hill county just outside Austin, TX and are ready to send it off for mixing. Also, we drank a ton of this stuff:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Our time in TX was fantastic, thanks to an amazing host family, a great crew in the studio, and some of the finest eats Austin had to offer. More details on the record itself coming soon. Thanks for checking in with us!</span><br />
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Zimmermanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13290750188325873620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6358077526929214410.post-91953573674077232042014-05-20T08:30:00.000-07:002014-05-20T08:30:00.920-07:00Worship Ministry Essentials - Part 2: DNA<span style="font-size: large;"></span>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Any healthy forest has trees of different sizes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Seedlings from decades past eventually grow tall and help the legacy of the forest live on by dispersing seeds of their own. If the distribution of new life stops, the forest has begun to die.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Strategies, methods, beliefs, and target audience make up a local church’s culture or DNA. Shelves of leadership books address the importance of having the right DNA in your organization. Worship ministry is no different.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">DNA can encompass the “why” and the “how” of ministry. Some how-DNA will change with time such as music styles or methods. Other why-DNA will remain constant such as the centrality of Jesus (Galatians 1:6–9). Even though how-DNA may change, it’s still essential to define and defend what you want it to be now.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></span></h2>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Replicators, Not Receivers</span></span></h2>
<span style="font-size: large;">The worship stage is an essential platform for communicating DNA to the church, so teach those on stage to be replicators (think big trees) of your DNA, not just receivers of it (seedlings). Replicators are those who don’t just get the task done, but explain the vision behind what’s happening adding leadership momentum and coverage. Replicators lead their sphere of influence in seeing the greatness of Christ by doing what God has called your church to do.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Vision leaks (every 30 days according to some leadership gurus) so rain vision continually. People forget the why of your ministry long before they forget how to meet the expectations. Without why-DNA, leaders are left with the imperative to obey but without the truth that empowers obedience (2 Peter 1:3). This is dangerous to the soul and the ministry.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>"Fresh vision rooted in the gospel helps minimize attrition and collapses."</i></span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you don’t create and manage your church’s DNA, you’ll waste valuable energy redirecting and repairing rather than progressing. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Replicating the Right DNA</span></span></h2>
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<span style="font-size: large;">1. Decide which hills you will die on.</span></h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">What doctrines and philosophies are non-negotiable? Don’t drench your worship volunteers with different vision each week. Land on the core things you want them to live and breathe. Be careful of assessing participation in some areas but not others (e.g. valuing a band member’s musical abilities while overlooking a lack of a servant-like heart).</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">2. Start at the front door.</span></h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">Make sure volunteers understand what’s important to you from the very start.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /> Whether you have a <a href="https://www.blogger.com/2011/12/09/worship-auditions">formal audition process</a> or not, make sure everyone in the forest you oversee knows the DNA. Anyone putting roots down needs to be briefed with a chance to ask questions.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /> 3. Create touch-points that make sense.</span></h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">Establish a system of touch-points (meetings, hang-outs, videos, emails, blogs, etc.) between you and key leaders at regular intervals where you intentionally include DNA conversations (see worksheet below). Every system has a shelf life, so ask trusted leaders when a system needs patching, and when it needs an overhaul. <a href="https://www.blogger.com/2011/02/15/leadership-church-size-dynamics">Keller’s article</a> on how communication is affected by church size is pertinent here.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /> 4. Assess current leaders.</span></h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">If you hear someone say something on stage or in a conversation that doesn’t reflect your DNA, pull them aside privately and help them understand why what they said may lead to confusion. Ask them to repeat back the “why-DNA” and “how-DNA” in their own words.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /> 5. Call the fire department before the forest burns down.</span></h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">Many people won’t confess that they have lost sight of the vision or that they are wrestling with sin until something explodes because of a lack of understanding of the gospel (Proverbs 28:13). Frequently invite everyone in the forest you oversee to say something when smoke appears, and teach them what smoke looks like (loss of traction in victory over sin, burnout, and relational breakdowns).</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /> 6. Don’t make DNA a weapon.</span></h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">Your church’s DNA is likely a mix of biblical mandates, opinions, and specific callings for your church body. Don’t encourage (explicitly or implicitly) the bashing of other camps that do things differently. Good things are happening that aren’t your things, and that’s ok.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /> 7. Be a replicator yourself.</span></h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">If your leaders don’t understand their role or can’t articulate why you do things the way you do them then you haven’t done your job. Pray for God’s leading in establishing your church’s DNA. Invite the Spirit to lead changes to methods when needed. Work hard at equipping and caring for the whole forest, new seedlings and established trees alike.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a class="button_grey" href="http://cdn.theresurgence.com/files/2012/01/24/DNA-QuestionsWorksheet.pdf" target="_blank">Download the Resource</a></span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i>This is a downloadable PDF that includes an outline for leading a meeting or conversation covering DNA issues and a worksheet for developing your ability to connect how-DNA to why-DNA. Customize the resources to fit your context and address the DNA elements most important to your ministry.</i></span>Zimmermanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13290750188325873620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6358077526929214410.post-55611968998019023612014-05-16T17:05:00.001-07:002014-05-16T17:05:28.788-07:00Worship Auditions<span style="font-size: large;"><img alt="" class="full_bleed" src="http://cdn.theresurgence.com/files/2011/12/07/worshipauditions.jpg" height="323" width="580" /></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Every college student knows it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Some professors are all about the test. Others prepare you for real life. The problem with “teaching to test” is it inaccurately assesses the skills or critical thinking required in the real world. This is why some students exit their programs of study with high marks, but not much to offer their employer or even church. Great educational programs combine academic study with real-world application. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Music auditions in the local church face similar challenges. The audition process should test for what will be expected in practices, worship gatherings, and the musician's relationships with other volunteers. Many churches don’t have a regular audition process at all, and others just search for a recipe of what's popular on the Christian scene. Before you can hold an audition, you have to find the musicians in your midst that might sign up to serve. </span><br />
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span></span></h2>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">How Do You Attract and Audition Musicians?</span></span></h2>
<span style="font-size: large;">Artists are like ants. Ants send out scouts to scope out new territory and report back their findings. If you squash the scouts or have nothing for them to sink their teeth into, they move on. Identify and create opportunities in your church for musicians. If your church has no platform for artists to grow, create, and contribute, then don’t expect them to stick around. Music is not the purpose of the church, but it can be immeasurably effective in communicating the message that is the purpose of the church, as evidenced by both the word of God and church history.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It’s essential to appoint someone who can be leader and liaison to musicians in your community. When selecting a leader over musicians, pick someone who understands the gospel, artistry, and the specific calling of your local church. Musicians should be held to the same standards as other leaders, but know they typically have their own culture—including language, behaviors, motivators, strengths, and weaknesses.</span><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-large;">"Worship is more than music, thus auditions should cover more than musicianship."</span></i></blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">Have your current music-types watch for places in your community where musicians gather and participate with them. Ask the lead pastor to talk about the specific music needs on stage in services, and ask people in your congregation to spread the word and suggest to your leaders anyone they know who might fit the bill. Frequently, there are godly and gifted musicians in the room that won’t beat your door down for a tryout. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">What Are the Qualifying Marks of a Person on Your Stage Leading Worship?</span></span></h2>
<span style="font-size: large;">Intentionally create tests for those joining the worship ministry that simulate their ability to do what current members do, on and off stage.<i> </i>Here are some key questions that your audition process should address:</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-size: large;">Are they worshipers of Jesus off-stage? (1 John 5:2)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Can they learn a whole set of music in the time period allowed?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Do they know how to play with other musicians?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">What is the time commitment? 6 months? A year?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Do they have a history of serving and giving?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Are they involved in community? (Known by others, confessing sin, etc.)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">How do they respond to authority in their life? (Hebrews 13:17)</span></li>
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you have a formal music education, don’t make the audition so tough that qualified folks will get dissuaded from serving in their area of gifting. Most volunteers don’t need to know about atonality, serialism, or a Hungarian minor scale, so stick to what is pertinent. That said, teach your volunteers music theory basics that help them serve your church better.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Sometimes leaders avoid hard questions because they fear losing a volunteer. Folks in smaller churches often say bigger churches are afforded “luxuries” in sifting through myriads of musicians. As discussed <a href="https://www.blogger.com/2011/10/18/how-to-choose-your-worship-leader">in this post</a>, deciding between heart and talent in a volunteer is a mistake regardless of church size. Worship is more than music, thus auditions should cover more than musicianship.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Who Makes the Final Decisions?</span></span></h2>
<span style="font-size: large;">Whether you have a worship leader reporting to a staff pastor or a worship pastor on staff, make sure the one overseeing the ministry is involved with auditions. Determining the specifics of assessing musicianship and spiritual maturity is ultimately their responsibility.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">When establishing policies and procedures, invite input from your lead pastor and elders on what they desire to see in your musicians. Whether you use open or private auditions (described in detail in the downloadable resources), always use panel feedback. Pick a panel that understands what music works now and what could work in your context. This provides a balanced perspective and makes it harder for the auditioner to feel wounded by a specific person. Make sure band or team leaders affected by the auditions are present for feedback too.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Lastly, auditions can be an incredibly effective litmus test of idolatry. Be available to address and shepherd those that discover idols in their own hearts during the audition process. If you build a comprehensive audition process for worship volunteers, you’ll improve your ability to call in the godly and gifted that God has brought you to serve his people.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a class="button_grey" href="http://cdn.theresurgence.com/files/2011/12/02/Article2-AuditionResources.pdf" target="_blank">Download the Resource</a></span></h3>
Zimmermanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13290750188325873620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6358077526929214410.post-36459571206362839912014-05-13T10:42:00.001-07:002014-05-16T17:05:49.043-07:00Bands vs. Teams<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpaDg61Kskl1e7QNCF9K83MCCu-EbaQEwSgXs0onGkySERS1w5is5YfqLj1MgdWp31eAe_Xm46OVV2Z9NY4EBVv8nnZCWaccTxn_P5Y32sXwvTpwnBMgGvt8_hXUOmjpIy2QB6MOmpm8s/s1600/bandTEAMS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpaDg61Kskl1e7QNCF9K83MCCu-EbaQEwSgXs0onGkySERS1w5is5YfqLj1MgdWp31eAe_Xm46OVV2Z9NY4EBVv8nnZCWaccTxn_P5Y32sXwvTpwnBMgGvt8_hXUOmjpIy2QB6MOmpm8s/s1600/bandTEAMS.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Throughout our <a href="http://www.acts29network.org/" target="_blank">Acts 29 church network</a>, worship ministries are typically driven by one of two models: the band model and the team model. <br /><br />In <i>the band model</i>, a group of musicians work together consistently. Your "A" band has the same people playing together whenever they are scheduled. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">In <i>the team model</i>, a single worship leader works with various musicians based on scheduling, and may lead an large number of permutations of drummers, bassists, pianists, etc. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Below are simply generalized observations from both our ministry experience<i>, </i>those we’ve coached, and those we have learned from in both models. We’ve used each model for at least 10+ years so we’ve seen how things work in the short run and the longer benefits. It should be noted that we currently have churches using each model. Other factors in your context may affect how applicable this list is for you.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Band Model - Pros</span></h2>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> 1. Stylistic diversity.</span></h3>
<span style="font-size: large;"> If the same leader is leading different teams, there isn’t going to be much difference stylistically, because the leader will bring one genre, background, personal preference, etc. My iTunes library looks very different than the other band leader’s libraries.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> <br />2. Equip more leaders.</span></h3>
<span style="font-size: large;"> Every band needs a leader, so the band model offers opportunity for leaders to step up and run their own band. If one guy is leading every weekend there isn't a consistent place for the up-and-coming leaders to get reps.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br />3. Increased volunteer ownership. </span></h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">We’ve seen greater buy-in and creativity in the band model. Band volunteers are more likely to write songs and work on new arrangements for the congregation. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">4. Helpful for multi-site. </span></h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">We assign bands to a specific church, and in general, they are expected to do life there. That said, we want each church raising up their own musicians. It is worth noting that when a church starts out, the team model is typically the only practical option until a critical mass of musicians are found and equipped. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">5. More volunteers get to participate. </span></h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">The band model means more people will participate in a typical multi-service church. One band can cover the morning gatherings and one band can cover the evening gatherings. A team leader would have to run multiple practices to accomplish this. Additionally, this breadth becomes hugely helpful in a multi-site church. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">6. Protects leaders.</span></h3>
<span style="font-size: large;"> Most worship leaders aren’t wired or designed to lead every Sunday for the long haul. Most can do it for a season, but not sustain passion and quality over a long period of time. Bands help break that up into a good rhythm of leading from stage and “leading” from the floor. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">7. Deeper relationships between volunteers. </span></h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">Because folks are playing together more often, they will naturally have deeper relationships (and more conflict that leads to sanctification and depth in their relationships). The band members at our church do life together outside of practice, in part because of the consistency in working together.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">8. Congregational fit. </span></h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">Because bands are assigned to a church and particular services, you gain the ability to match bands (think style and flavor) with the services who will be best served by that band’s style and abilities. Think about who is in the room at each of your services. Would this band work for the families in the morning services or the college students in the evening? </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Team Model - Pros </span></h2>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">1. Scheduling the ministry is simpler. </span></h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">Replacing an individual (assuming you have multiple musicians for each position) is easier than swapping out an entire band when schedule conflicts arise. Teams tend to last longer because they don’t unravel when a member moves or steps down from worship ministry. </span><br />
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">2. Less entitlement. </span></h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">Because they have less of a sense of “my ministry, my band, or my spot” team volunteers don’t push back as much when change is needed because they are used to a rotating cast of co-musicians. <span style="font-size: small;"><i> </i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Note: This has been problematic with the band model, primarily because people resist breaking off deeper relationships. While this to be expected, it's important that whatever model you use, the win is defined by what is best for the church, not just the musicians on stage.</i></span> </span><br />
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">3. Quality control/consistency is easier to achieve. </span></h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">The quality (or lack thereof) on Sundays will be more consistent since the same man or woman is leading. In the band model, quality can fluctuate greatly depending on which band leader is leading.</span><br />
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">4. Great if you have limited leaders.</span></h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">You can’t have a band or team without a qualified leader. Never try to build a band/team before you have a trusted, tested, godly leader to own, lead, and shepherd that band/team. If your church has <i>one</i> leader that can carry the room on Sundays, use teams to staff different weekends. </span><br />
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">5. Easier to recruit individual musicians/vocalists. </span></h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">We've found that the “band model” subtly communicates to the musician not yet involved, that you don’t need any more volunteers. This of course is never true. This effect can be minimized by actively recruiting in gatherings.</span><br />
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">6. Congregational familiarity. </span></h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">Typically those using the team model will end up with fewer leaders doing the heavy lifting, which means it's easier for the congregation to feel connected to the worship leader(s). If you rotate a different leader or band each week, you can create an atmosphere of constantly auditioning the worshippers on stage with the congregation adjusting and playing judge.</span><br />
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">Discipleship considerations. </span></h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">Team leaders will typically invest their time discipling the musicians that rotate through their teams. Band leaders will focus on their band. A worship pastor overseeing multiple bands or teams will need to strategically think through who they invest in. Remember, every leader has a saturation point on how many real disciples they can have. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">We hope this summary is helpful in deciding whether the band or team model will serve your ministry best. Leave other benefits or disadvantages you have experienced below in the comments. </span>Zimmermanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13290750188325873620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6358077526929214410.post-7730008161767226942014-05-02T11:11:00.002-07:002014-05-16T17:05:04.312-07:00How to Choose Your Worship Leader<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Most church planters talk about their worship leader the way an apologetic dad talks about an uncoordinated child at a soccer game.</span><br />
<div class="p3">
<span style="font-size: large;">“He's got potential.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“She's a hard worker.”</span></div>
<div class="p3">
<span style="font-size: large;">“If we could get some better players around him, he'd really shine.”</span></div>
<div class="p3">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p3">
<span style="font-size: large;">Church planters know well that you have to make the best of your situation and use what you have. Too often this translates into a worship leader getting thrown on stage that either learned 5 chords in his dorm room last semester, or couldn't explain the gospel if a $10,000 gift card to "Guitar Center" was on the line. Every worship leader starts somewhere, but what is an acceptable starting point? How do you choose between a leader that is godly and one that is gifted?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<h2 class="p3">
<span style="font-size: x-large; font-weight: normal;">A Repentant and Humble Heart is Not Optional </span></h2>
<div class="p3">
<span style="font-size: large;">The scriptures repeatedly <span class="s1">address the <i>heart</i> </span>in the context of worship. Worship is always a heart issue. Look for leaders and volunteers that love the person Jesus <i>more </i>than their act of service to him. Do you sense an adoration of Christ in their life? Are they quick to confess? Are they <span class="s1">teachable</span>? What makes their heart beat faster; musical excellence or gospel transformation in people's lives?</span></div>
<div class="p3">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">It<b>'</b>s a mistake to assume that because the teaching pastor carries the primary responsibility of doctrine and vision, that the worship leader can be any guy in a plaid shirt who can nail the latest worship anthem. Would you want the congregation to follow their example off-stage?</span></div>
<div class="p3">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Challenge your worship leader in character issues, and name pride when you see it, in a loving but truthful way. While you aren't looking for a perfect track record, you do want to see a pattern of repentance.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<h2 class="p3">
<span style="font-size: large;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Skillful Leading is Also Important to God</span></span></h2>
<div class="p3">
<span style="font-size: large;">Despite its popularity, the idea that skill doesn't matter to God is simply <span class="s1">not biblical</span>. God raises up godly and <span class="s1">skilled artisans </span>to serve in their craft. This doesn't mean your worship leader needs to have his own record on iTunes, but it does mean that “sloppiness drains the vertical dimension out of gathered worship” (<span class="s1">Calvin</span>). Skill does not make our sacrifice <span class="s1">more acceptable to God</span>, but it does help us serve our purpose as worship leaders more effectively. Being properly trained and prepared helps keep the focus where it belongs, on Jesus.</span></div>
<div class="p3">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<h2 class="p3">
<span style="font-size: x-large; font-weight: normal;">Be Wary of Those Who are More Eager to Lead Than Serve</span></h2>
<div class="p3">
<span style="font-size: large;">Most church plants will have a few eager folks that want leadership roles out of the gates. A good worship leader will invite the elders or pastors in their church to confirm their calling. If someone approaches you and says: “God told me I am supposed to lead worship here,” you should be very cautious. It is the exception to the rule that a person making that sort of uninvited claim turns out to be a solid leader.</span></div>
<div class="p3">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<h2 class="p3">
<span style="font-size: x-large; font-weight: normal;">Don't Forget The Sheep On Stage</span></h2>
<div class="p3">
<span style="font-size: large;">As a lead pastor or church planter, it is ultimately your responsibility to select, coach, and disciple you worship leader. The lead pastor may not do the hands-on discipleship or training work, but if that's you, don't delegate your involvement in the process. If you think you're too busy, consider the following: if your average church-goers attend a 90 minute service, three times a month, they will give you 54 hours of their attention annually. Depending on liturgy, your worship leader will get roughly 18-27 of those hours. Your worship leader sounds like a wise place to invest your time, doesn't it?</span></div>
<div class="p3">
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Give your worship leader specific feedback that is truthful but also gracious, and explain why their leadership development will help the mission. Not saying what everyone is thinking on a Sunday morning about your worship leader is not loving towards your leader <i>or </i>the flock.</span></div>
<div class="p3">
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">While he knows very little about music, the most important coach I have had in my development is my lead pastor <span class="s1">Harvey Turner</span>. He has constantly challenged the “why” behind worship ministry decisions and invested in me personally in our 13 years of working together. Worship leaders need this kind of care and shepherding.</span></div>
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<div class="p3">
<i><span style="font-size: x-large;">"Look for leaders and volunteers that love the person Jesus more than their act of service to him."</span></i></div>
</blockquote>
<div class="p3">
<span style="font-size: large;">Get an audition process immediately. Whatever your audition process looks like, make it robust enough to assess an applicant's understanding of the gospel, spiritual maturity, and level of skill. Don't buy the lie that placing an unqualified leader on stage is better than going without corporate worship in song for a season. If you feel unqualified to make a holistic evaluation, reach out to a worship pastor you trust to help.</span></div>
<div class="p3">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />Your worship leader certainly needs theological training. Maybe he or she needs voice lessons too. No matter the size of your church, let's not propagate a double-standard where other leaders are tested for character and competency, but worship leaders get a pass. It will take effort and time but you can have both. Aren't the Savior and his bride worth it?</span></div>
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<h2 class="p4">
<span style="font-size: large;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Resource</span></span></h2>
<div class="p3">
<span style="font-size: small;">Here is a <span class="s1"><a href="http://cdn.theresurgence.com/files/2011/10/06/Audition_Interview_Questions.pdf?1317943842" target="_blank">brief downloadable PDF</a> </span>of some questions to ask in the audition process of a worship leader or volunteer. It's not fool-proof, but simply a tool to identify both red flags that may come back to bite you later, and strengths that will serve you well down the road. As always, pray for wisdom and discernment <span class="s1">when appointing leaders</span>, and <span class="s1">let them be tested</span>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">
Prayer</span></h2>
<div class="p3">
<span style="font-size: small;">Father, guide us by your Spirit in raising up worship leaders that adore your Son and desire to serve and equip the saints you entrust to us...leaders that love you more than their gifting, more than emotional highs, and more than perfect productions. Strengthen the unity between lead/teaching pastors and worship leaders. Protect our flocks from wolves, and help us to discern between those that need coaching and those that need to be pulled out of leadership. Grow us in our love for your people as shepherds. Shape our gatherings to bring you glory.</span></div>
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a class="button_grey" href="http://cdn.theresurgence.com/files/2011/10/06/Audition_Interview_Questions.pdf?1317943842" target="_blank">Download the Resource</a></span></h3>
Zimmermanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13290750188325873620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6358077526929214410.post-8760904453841032222014-04-30T10:06:00.001-07:002014-05-16T17:04:49.000-07:00Lead The Church Setlists<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">We're halfway through the Lead The Church event here in Reno. It's been incredible to hang with with leaders from all over the United States and hear about what they are doing in the trenches.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Here's the songs we have played and are playing for the event.</span><br />
<h2>
<span style="font-size: large;">
DAY 1 </span></h2>
<span style="color: #e69138;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>morning</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1. Stricken, Smitten, and Afflicted (words by Thomas Kelly, arrangement by <a href="http://zimmerman.bandcamp.com/album/my-soul-knows-ep" target="_blank">Zimmerman</a>)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2. Rejoice (<a href="http://www.dustinkensrue.com/" target="_blank">Dustin Kensrue</a>)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">3. Absent From Flesh (<a href="http://sojournmusic.bandcamp.com/track/absent-from-flesh-3" target="_blank">Brooks Ritter, Sojourn</a>) </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">4. God Undefeatable (<a href="http://www.austinstoneworship.com/albums/1--austin-stone-live/songs/1--god-undefeatable" target="_blank">Austin Stone Worship</a>)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #e69138;"><i>afternoon</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1. Crown Him With Many Crowns (words by Godfrey Thring, arrangement by <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nCdXd8XU170" target="_blank">Passion</a>)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2. Doxology (words by Thomas Ken, arrangement by <a href="http://zimmerman.bandcamp.com/album/my-soul-knows-ep" target="_blank">Zimmerman</a>)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">3. I Need You (<a href="http://zimmerman.bandcamp.com/album/my-soul-knows-ep" target="_blank">Zimmerman</a>)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
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<h2>
<span style="font-size: large;">
DAY 2</span></h2>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #e69138;"><i>morning</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1. Rejoice (<a href="http://www.dustinkensrue.com/" target="_blank">Dustin Kensrue</a>)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2. Grace Alone (<a href="http://www.dustinkensrue.com/" target="_blank">Dustin Kensrue</a>) / All the Poor and Powerless (<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-iG2wUL1vTY" target="_blank">David Crowder Band</a>)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">3. Stricken, Smitten, and Afflicted (words by Thomas Kelly, arrangement by <a href="http://zimmerman.bandcamp.com/album/my-soul-knows-ep" target="_blank">Zimmerman</a>)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">4. My Soul Knows (<a href="http://zimmerman.bandcamp.com/album/my-soul-knows-ep" target="_blank">Zimmerman</a>)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #e69138;"><i>afternoon</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1. Nothing but the Blood (dub-step arrangement by <a href="http://zimmerman.bandcamp.com/album/my-soul-knows-ep" target="_blank">Zimmerman</a>)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2. The Forgiven - Psalm 32 (<a href="http://zimmerman.bandcamp.com/album/my-soul-knows-ep" target="_blank">Zimmerman</a>)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">3. Absent From Flesh (<a href="http://sojournmusic.bandcamp.com/track/absent-from-flesh-3" target="_blank">Brooks Ritter, Sojourn</a>) </span><br />
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Zimmermanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13290750188325873620noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6358077526929214410.post-17648085408991466442014-04-09T09:14:00.001-07:002014-05-16T17:04:35.523-07:00Lead The Church 2014<span style="font-size: large;">Ever have a hard time organizing the artists in your church? Ever wonder how to build solid worship bands for your Sunday gatherings? Ever wanted to focus the artwork in your church around the teaching series?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I'm pleased to announce that I will be covering these topics and more as I lead a break-out session at the upcoming "Lead The Church" conference held in Reno, NV. It's free. In a sea of conferences this one focuses on practical help, not just big ideas. Did I mention it costs nothing to attend?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.livingstoneschurches.com/leadthechurch2014.com/schedule.php" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.livingstoneschurches.com/leadthechurch2014.com/schedule.php" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdax9wLIatSKfUpcmRXHHMcpANl8xlx9kTr2E5Mo_yRLUGc2m26ZreRGZYGqbFiM42nCDrtr2cuggil5p0xEa_pqcnwq95GIzQ7jHauq1w3HjYtZKuhIoRNQ8IUUkPWXWu6JGI36dizIE/s1600/ltCPOSTER.jpg" height="640" title="" width="412" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">More details and registration can be found <a href="http://www.livingstoneschurches.com/leadthechurch2014.com/schedule.php" target="_blank">here</a>. See you there!</span>Zimmermanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13290750188325873620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6358077526929214410.post-89228412845637418432014-01-31T15:51:00.003-08:002014-05-18T08:46:47.235-07:00Worship Ministry Essentials - Part 1: The Flapper<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp5dk6HhOKeyFe8Pe52NTUbxjv9POtNva5BxNsYUjWsIJqrY_fhjRo4WAyIeeEJfenBQmC9llpxmlyaZ_QTQGndi1jJ3ReFQowctI659u6OeJ0addvf8mJFL5VLh41SQV3l_1j2a7bVD0/s1600/flapper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp5dk6HhOKeyFe8Pe52NTUbxjv9POtNva5BxNsYUjWsIJqrY_fhjRo4WAyIeeEJfenBQmC9llpxmlyaZ_QTQGndi1jJ3ReFQowctI659u6OeJ0addvf8mJFL5VLh41SQV3l_1j2a7bVD0/s1600/flapper.jpg" height="283" width="550" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">For the last eight months my wife and I have fallen asleep each night to the sound of our bathroom toilet emptying slowly and filling again. It's amazing how a toilet bowl acts as an amplifier for sound, and how much sound can come from a slow, steady drip.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">The only reason I didn't repair it eight months ago, was because I falsely believed it would mean I would have to replace the whole toilet, which would entail ripping up most of our bathroom. That was a project I wasn't financially or emotionally ready to dive into.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I am increasingly convinced that one of the fundamental issues beneath many of the conflicts in worship ministry (and the church at large) is that we all frequently respond with surprise when things get difficult relationally. Despite what we know about ourselves (that we have mixed motives for everything), what we know about humanity (that we are born with brokenness), and what we know about sanctification (it's a crawl on a good day)</span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><sup><span style="font-size: small;">1</span></sup></span>, we still are shocked when conflict arises or a ministry relationship goes sideways</span><span style="font-size: large;"><sup><span style="font-size: small;"></span></sup>. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">You may have noticed that we musicians and artists can be a
unreliable, self-absorbed, and sensitive bunch. This makes good soil for an
emotional outburst or a sharp exchange at your next rehearsal.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Some of the best advice I was given heading into marriage was "to keep short accounts." This means handling conflict as soon as possible in a godly fashion so that it doesn't have time to fester, and grow into something bigger and heavier. For those that aren't a pain in the neck like me, prone to stirring the pot just to keep things interesting, you avoid conflict because you believe the lie that if you don't make eye contact, the problem will grow bored and go away. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Here's the thing. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Bitterness doesn't wear a watch. It's content to hang out as long as you give it free rent. Reconciling with a worship volunteer can be hard work that costs some time and emotional energy. That said, you find out what you really believe about the gospel when someone wounds you. </span><br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-large;">"</span></i><span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="font-size: x-large;">Bitterness doesn't wear a watch."</span></i> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Like any team, you can't have a healthy worship ministry unless you have a culture of gospel-centered conflict resolution. If you're the leader, you set the tone for this. Often, the most important thing you do as a leader, is how you treat someone <i>after</i> they blow it. </span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Bottom line: if you do life together on your worship team or band long enough, someone is going to hurt you, upset you, and possibly wound you. What if instead of acting surprised when this happens, we instead were committed to seeing each other in light of the good news we already believe about ourselves? Seek peace.<span style="font-size: small;"><sup>2</sup></span> Apologize and own it when you misstep or misspeak. Don't let thoughts about the worst case scenario arrest you from finding a good time to talk it out. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">If Jesus really paid for it all</span><span style="font-size: large;">, then believe that about yourself <i>and</i> the one you find yourself irritated with or hurt by</span><span style="font-size: large;">.</span><sup><span style="font-size: small;">3</span></sup><span style="font-size: large;"> If you need some time to gather your thoughts and repent of your selfishness then take it...but first commit to talking things out in the near future. Fixing a small rift early always beats crossing a huge chasm later.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<i><span style="font-size: x-large;">"You find out what you really believe about the gospel when someone wounds you."</span></i><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">It's amazing how doing ministry together acts as an amplifier for our character, and how much damage can be done from a slow, steady drip of unforgiveness.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">After watching nine seconds of <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rTD_ZqxBX4U" target="_blank">a video on YouTube</a>, I saw that the leak was probably an aging "flapper". The swap took $7 and two minutes. I am sleeping better, the water bill is lower, and now my only regret is that I didn't solve this eight months ago. You might sleep better too if you gather the courage to step out and reconcile your conflict today.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">1. Isaiah 53:6, Romans 3:23, Psalm 143:2, 2 Cor 3:18<br />2. Roman 14:19 <br />3. 2 Cor 5</span></div>
Zimmermanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13290750188325873620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6358077526929214410.post-8272064914234407112014-01-18T07:58:00.003-08:002014-05-16T17:03:04.257-07:00Stripping Things Down<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy849BEIP-6UiO-yPkovaC3IcrZswUzPiYN971_NgMJJcmLKkD1aMoss4omPcB8ytf4ht4APeO0ixIC0jv1-xI6XxJOW2Oo7tK379w_1HHcS9VbovyOKUesb7HAYcEYWqRZYQirwA7NJs/s1600/strippingHEADER.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy849BEIP-6UiO-yPkovaC3IcrZswUzPiYN971_NgMJJcmLKkD1aMoss4omPcB8ytf4ht4APeO0ixIC0jv1-xI6XxJOW2Oo7tK379w_1HHcS9VbovyOKUesb7HAYcEYWqRZYQirwA7NJs/s1600/strippingHEADER.jpg" height="239" width="550" /></a></div>
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<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Many churches are led faithfully in worship every Sunday by a single leader or dedicated duo. For those of us leading with a standard 4 or 5-piece or those attempting to best Hillsong United's stage population of 27, stripping things down to a simpler configuration can be really helpful. Below you'll find both the advantages to doing so, as well as some tips to make it work. Let's start with the perks:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>1. An opportunity for rest.</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">This is true especially in contexts when a few musicians carry the lion's share of responsibility for musical worship in your church.<b> </b>Give them a break.<b> </b>Send them to another church in town to observe and learn. Kick them out of town with their spouse. Break up their routine of rising early, doing a sound check, and running a marathon with you every Sunday.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>2. An opportunity for teaching.</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">An acoustic set is a great time to teach that worship is not about style, instrumentation or volume. Lovingly remind your people that remembering and adoring Christ and celebrating His work through <i>active</i> participation is the win for Sundays (as opposed to hearing their favorite song, or just enjoying the band).</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>3. An opportunity for variety.</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Changing things up a bit can be life giving for you if you're feeling excited about Jesus but bored with your presentation. The instrumentation and size of band has nothing to do with whether worship happens or not, but mixing things up can still be a good thing for you, your team, and the congregation. <i><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span></i></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="font-size: x-large;">"Remind your people that remembering and adoring Christ and celebrating His work through active participation is the win for Sundays."</span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span></i> </span><br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">TIPS FOR YOUR ACOUSTIC SET</span></h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">Now that we've touched on some perks, here's a short list of things to help make the stripped down set work. I would note that if the skill level of your players are through the roof, you have some more flexibility in these things...but I'm guessing that's probably not your scenario.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>1. Ditch the instrumentals and </b><b><b>the mega-chorus</b>.</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Often the instrumentals, bridge or a repeated chorus on a studio
recording make full use of all the instruments and dynamics afforded a 4
or 5 piece band. Think through which parts of the
arrangement all but require a full band, and then
simply remove those parts or simplify your arrangement. If you opt to
simplify, listen for the melody lines (vocal or instrumental) and try to
keep those intact. Additionally, long instrumentals sound empty/uninteresting when it's just an acoustic guitar and piano, so use this as a time to really highlight the voices of the congregation and the singing parts.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Ex: If there is an 8-bar instrumental after the chorus, skip it and go right into the next verse.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>2. Knock it down a step.</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Worship leaders should always be listening for whether a song is in a "congregationally friendly" key, but this is vitally important when simplifying the band. I suspect it's because generally people will meet you half-way when a full band is playing over them, but since they can hear themselves 100% of the time during an acoustic set, key selection becomes even more important. I've moved a song in an acoustic set down two full steps when the full-band version is near the top of what we're comfortable playing in a worship setting.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Ex: We play "<a href="http://marshill.com/music/albums/citizens" target="_blank">Sweetness of Freedom</a>" in C with the band (the recorded key) but in Ab when it's just an acoustic trio.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>3. Tie a rock on top of your keyboardist's left hand.</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Everyone needs to think through what musical space is occupied by the others usually on stage, and play their instruments accordingly. Without a bass player, it's a good idea to have the piano player (if you are using one) play more heavy handed on the lower end of things. This gives some guts to your simplified arrangements. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Hope these tips help you out the next time you cut things back and step on stage. Till next time.</span>Zimmermanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13290750188325873620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6358077526929214410.post-27206454025236725592014-01-09T12:21:00.002-08:002014-01-20T13:29:42.186-08:00Worship Resoucres Pt 6: Catalogs<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp8zu9hapEdg4KB4GMPkll69emFdMOn8FCUVuKQGX79GUSM3CB_ruaEn1GOb8bGpJkfQQ2ulCbOyXa-UCWc9VmMdI1kQ3IwGGDi5yus_quoIJdzY24cgoZTLYA-EzT8suiM21eZSlUEyE/s1600/blogFOOTER.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp8zu9hapEdg4KB4GMPkll69emFdMOn8FCUVuKQGX79GUSM3CB_ruaEn1GOb8bGpJkfQQ2ulCbOyXa-UCWc9VmMdI1kQ3IwGGDi5yus_quoIJdzY24cgoZTLYA-EzT8suiM21eZSlUEyE/s1600/blogFOOTER.jpg" height="239" width="550" /></a></div>
<h2>
Catalogs</h2>
When worship leaders reach out for guidance or input on their worship
ministry, one of the first things I ask about is regarding the use of
catalogs. Most are familiar with the concept but pick songs for their congregation with little attention to frequency, consistency, or breadth. The <a href="http://www.billboard.com/charts/christian-songs" target="_blank">top 10 CCM songs</a> are not a thoughtful or even helpful way of choosing songs for Sunday. Using a catalog is a great tool for worship leaders to balance the "worship diet" of their church.<br />
<br />
First let's define the term for our use:<br />
<i>A
catalog is a set bank of songs used for a set period of time at a set
location that balances the worship diet of your congregation. </i>For example, we use a catalog that changes every 3 months, of around 25 songs at our Reno location. Catalogs differ between our 5 churches, and we tend to roll several songs forward each quarter. <br />
<br />
Here's a quick rundown on a few of the tested advantages we've seen play out:<br />
<br />
<b>1. It's helpful for your people.</b><br />
Using a catalog is a great way to ensure a "balanced diet" for your congregation. The Psalms are full of a <i>breadth</i>
of human emotion. With a catalog in place, it's easier to
intentionally have songs in rotation that cover celebration, despair,
doubt, gratitude, and confession. Here is a sample of some of the
balances we are striving for in our catalogs: <br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">a. Subjective vs. objective (How we feel or respond vs. what is unchanging and true)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">b. Indicative vs. imperative (Reminding what Christ has done vs. what we do in response)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">c. Celebrational vs. contemplative (both in lyrical content and in musical mood)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">d. Individual vs. corporate (I and me vs. us and we)</span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">A warning: many have moralized different categories of songs in recent years, which speaks to both an ignorance of the Psalms as well as church history. For example, in the hymnals I have collected from the 1800s, the most common first word found in the song titles is "I". Balance is key.</span></span><br />
<br />
<b>2. It's helpful for those you are trying to reach.</b><br />
Every
church has its own culture, and the music is part of that culture.
When a new person walks through your doors they will not know the songs
you use, which is to be expected, but you can make it easier for them to join in after a few weeks if you use a catalog to limit the sheer volume of content. We say, "a guest should recognize several songs if they spend a month with us".<br />
<br />
<b>3. It's helpful for your teaching pastor.</b><br />
In
many churches, the teaching pastor has ten times the theological
training that the worship leader does. This is highly problematic, but
that's for another post on another day. Giving your teaching pastor a
voice into the songs you use for Sundays is a great checkpoint, <i>especially</i>
if they aren't musically inclined. Using a catalog can help you work
on the worship menu together and gives you a fighting chance at tying in the music with upcoming teaching themes.<i> </i>It also allows for your teaching pastor to request songs more easily when he has the catalog in hand. The same can be said for planning services.<br />
<br />
<b>4. It's helpful for you.</b><br />
Every
worship leader knows that you have a certain number
of songs you could play at any moment. There are another group of
songs that with a quick glance at a lyric sheet you could pull off.
Still other songs would require the music sheet to be in front of you
and several practices. This is true because depending on many factors, you only have so much memory recall to allocate towards the songs you are playing.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #783f04;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">"A guest should recognize several songs if they spend a month with us." </span></span><br />
<br />
Since a catalog limits the number of songs you play, assuming you go through at least portion of your catalog at practice means you also limit the time that has passed since you have played everything in your catalog. We play our whole catalog every 3 weeks or so. That means it's never been more than 2 week since we played a song we are using for this quarter. I can't overstate how helpful this is.<br />
<br />
This saves time previously spent trying to remember that one tune you haven't played for months. It creates space in practices for praying together, writing and creativity with your band or team, not to mention polishing the songs that need a little extra work.<br />
<br />
These are only some of the benefits but it's clear to see that catalogs are a incredibly useful tool for worship leaders. Type one up yourself or use <a href="http://planningcenteronline.com/" target="_blank">PCO</a>, but figure out a way to implement a catalog for greater clarity and intentionality in your worship ministry. You can download a sample of one of our catalogs <a href="http://www.livingstoneschurches.com/catalog.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
Anything we missed? Comment below.Zimmermanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13290750188325873620noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6358077526929214410.post-58775374557933293792013-09-04T08:30:00.000-07:002014-01-18T08:12:49.620-08:00Worship Resources Pt 5: Music Theory <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH6W5pNTPt1Ww_2IxhBLC-Pl4pweTt_ea5Iw4yugx5DnR2mIjd4GnulmYH9UjcGyTBQqsDGdA-V2Tl5LrBiOd2EqXXjteU-1E-KgsoiKTug55VTfL71t6ZFdoZgO80H4dw24hK_R34JDo/s1600/worshipKIT550.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH6W5pNTPt1Ww_2IxhBLC-Pl4pweTt_ea5Iw4yugx5DnR2mIjd4GnulmYH9UjcGyTBQqsDGdA-V2Tl5LrBiOd2EqXXjteU-1E-KgsoiKTug55VTfL71t6ZFdoZgO80H4dw24hK_R34JDo/s1600/worshipKIT550.jpg" /></a></div>
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<h2>
</h2>
<h2>
</h2>
<h2>
Music Theory Lessons for Volunteers</h2>
Communicating at your mid-week rehearsal can sometimes feel like you are building the Tower
of Babel. Somewhere between avoiding the key your piano player hates and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nashville_number_system" target="_blank">Nashville numbers</a>, you can feel like everyone is on a different page.<br />
<br />
Thankfully "music" is a language that can learned by any
musician. Many people who serve faithfully in the church have no formal
music background which can make it hard to talk to them about things
such as how capos work, or transpose a song on the fly. These two
theory lessons will help define common musical terms such as whole
steps, half steps, major scale, minor scale, using capos, transposing
for capos, and common chords in every key.<br />
<br />
Our lessons below show how to use "Nashville Numbers" which is very helpful when a
a capo-ed guitarist is talking to the rest of the band about what chord
he/she is playing or when learning how to transpose. <br />
<br />
If someone in your band or team does have formal musical training, encourage them to pass it on in ways that are helpful, not condescending. Ask for referrals to music teachers in your community that understand the worship environment of a typical church.<br />
<br />
You can download for free some of the lessons we use below. These are targeted to help new musicians understand basic concepts and help you find the short cuts in the musical language without
having everyone take a year long college theory class.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://livingstoneschurches.com/zimmerman/theory1.pdf" target="_blank">Lesson 1: Steps and Scales</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://livingstoneschurches.com/zimmerman/theory2.pdf" target="_blank">Lesson 2: Minor Scales, Chords, Nashville Numbers, and Transposing</a><br />
<br />
If you'd like more lessons, let us know in the comments below! Zimmermanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13290750188325873620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6358077526929214410.post-31730729726958441782013-08-28T08:30:00.000-07:002013-09-17T11:42:58.377-07:00Worship Resources Pt 4: Developing A New Band<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH6W5pNTPt1Ww_2IxhBLC-Pl4pweTt_ea5Iw4yugx5DnR2mIjd4GnulmYH9UjcGyTBQqsDGdA-V2Tl5LrBiOd2EqXXjteU-1E-KgsoiKTug55VTfL71t6ZFdoZgO80H4dw24hK_R34JDo/s1600/worshipKIT550.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH6W5pNTPt1Ww_2IxhBLC-Pl4pweTt_ea5Iw4yugx5DnR2mIjd4GnulmYH9UjcGyTBQqsDGdA-V2Tl5LrBiOd2EqXXjteU-1E-KgsoiKTug55VTfL71t6ZFdoZgO80H4dw24hK_R34JDo/s1600/worshipKIT550.jpg" /></a></div>
<h2>
<br /> </h2>
<h2>
</h2>
<h2>
</h2>
<h2>
Band Development Process</h2>
Many people have asked me what it looks like to "build a band".<br />
<br />
I should preface that at <a href="http://www.livingstoneschurches.com/" target="_blank">Living Stones Churches</a>, we use the band model at some of our locations, and the team model at others. Neither is "better" but they both have pros and cons.<br />
<br />
When we build a band, we're looking for someone theologically grounded, musically gifted, and spiritually submited to lead it. I detail that a bit in <a href="http://theresurgence.com/2011/10/18/how-to-choose-your-worship-leader" target="_blank">this piece for the Resurgence</a>. But building a band is more than just raising up (or finding) a great band leader. That's why we have a development process.<br />
<br />
The process addresses the logistical needs of an efficient practice, establishes their song catalog to ensure theological depth, thematic diversity, and congregational familiarity. <br />
<br />
Download our "<a href="http://livingstoneschurches.com/zimmerman/newband.pdf" target="_blank">Band Development Process</a>" for free <a href="http://livingstoneschurches.com/zimmerman/newband.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
If you use part or all this, be sure to comment below with your thoughts. Zimmermanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13290750188325873620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6358077526929214410.post-77833774003710900332013-08-21T13:52:00.000-07:002013-09-17T11:42:10.182-07:00Worship Resources Pt 3: Feedback Loops<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH6W5pNTPt1Ww_2IxhBLC-Pl4pweTt_ea5Iw4yugx5DnR2mIjd4GnulmYH9UjcGyTBQqsDGdA-V2Tl5LrBiOd2EqXXjteU-1E-KgsoiKTug55VTfL71t6ZFdoZgO80H4dw24hK_R34JDo/s1600/worshipKIT550.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH6W5pNTPt1Ww_2IxhBLC-Pl4pweTt_ea5Iw4yugx5DnR2mIjd4GnulmYH9UjcGyTBQqsDGdA-V2Tl5LrBiOd2EqXXjteU-1E-KgsoiKTug55VTfL71t6ZFdoZgO80H4dw24hK_R34JDo/s1600/worshipKIT550.jpg" /></a></div>
<h2>
<br />Feedback Form for Bands/Teams/Leaders</h2>
Anyone who has read a leadership book published in the last 50 years knows that feedback loops are essential. The people you lead need to know what the "win" is. If you don't define what the "win" is, you can't measure it.<br />
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Sadly, most churches only have a vague collection of ideas for what a "win" is on Sunday. Very few have spelled it out in a way that can be assessed and measured. We're quick to spiritualize this, and while I agree that no man can know the full extent of what God is doing in the room, there are certainly things we can watch for and assess for growing in our efficacy, leadership, and faithfulness.<br />
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Sometimes a worship leader is a little off, and you don't know how to nail down what it is. Maybe <i>you</i> are the worship leader and you want to get honest feedback from your peers or your lead pastor. <br />
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Asking questions like, "How can I lead better on Sundays?" or "Is there anything I do on stage you wish I would stop doing?" are great discussion starters. Now, I only recommend these conversations if you actually believe that Jesus loves you, has saved you, and won't let go of you...you know like the songs you sing? Otherwise any critical feedback will likely send you into a shame spiral.<br />
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A good feedback loop that includes critique <i>and</i> praise can be life giving and a way to avoid plateauing in your leadership. <br />
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Our "<a href="http://livingstoneschurches.com/zimmerman/feedback.pdf" target="_blank">Feedback</a>" document includes forms for band/team leaders as well as the band/team as a whole and is available for free <a href="http://livingstoneschurches.com/zimmerman/feedback.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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If the feedback document is helpful to you, comment below. Zimmermanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13290750188325873620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6358077526929214410.post-44049250242963720512013-08-14T08:30:00.000-07:002013-09-17T11:41:50.439-07:00Worship Resources Pt 2: Application<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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<h2>
<br />Worship Application</h2>
You know the guy.<br />
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He approaches you after a Sunday service and starts talking about how he used to lead worship at a huge church, and he grew up down the street from Switchfoot, and he has a bunch of gear he wants you to know about. <br />
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Also, he wants to join your worship ministry. <br />
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Where do you start? What action step do you point to so that he knows what is expected? We use a printed application as a starting point. We have them on hand at the church info counter at all times. Of course we want to really get to know anyone that comes into the worship ministry, both because of it's biblical importance, and the visible nature of anyone serving on stage. You don't get to know someone filling out a form.<br />
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That said, the simple application, actually weeds out some of the folks that might be toxic for the ministry, while getting the folks you want to join a way to think through what they are walking into. It serves as the first step in the process of getting involved. It's designed to be just that: a first step. Not bulletproof, but a helpful tool.<br />
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If you find the document useful, be sure to comment below. <br />
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Download the "<a href="http://livingstoneschurches.com/zimmerman/application.pdf" target="_blank">Worship Application</a>" for free <a href="http://livingstoneschurches.com/zimmerman/application.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>.Zimmermanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13290750188325873620noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6358077526929214410.post-80478984404108732262013-08-07T08:30:00.000-07:002013-09-18T10:35:03.717-07:00Worship Resources Pt 1: Auditions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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<h2>
Worship Band/Team Audition Kit</h2>
I know you probably have more worship leaders and volunteers than you know what to do with.<br />
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But most churches <i>I know</i> are struggling to get worship leaders and volunteers identified, recruited, trained, and discipled. Worship team member recruiting is tough. It's demanding in terms of time and specific in terms of gifting…and that's not even considering the expectations on a music leader. In many ways, we are asked to be a theologically trained, public speaking, musically inclined entrepreneur. <br />
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At <a href="http://www.livingstoneschurches.com/" target="_blank">Living Stones Churches</a>, through years of experimenting and making mistakes left and right, we have a pretty robust and thorough process of getting new worship volunteers and leaders on board and on stage. We'll be posting several documents we use to train leaders and build bands. None of this is a replacement for relational discipleship, but it's a good system to get you rolling on developing and assessing what you have now, and clarifying what you want for the future. They are living documents for sure...they are changing all the time.<br />
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If you find this helpful, be sure to leave a comment!<br />
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Download the "<a href="http://livingstoneschurches.com/zimmerman/auditions.pdf" target="_blank">Worship Band/Team Audition Kit</a>" for no charge <a href="http://livingstoneschurches.com/zimmerman/auditions.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>.Zimmermanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13290750188325873620noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6358077526929214410.post-53767004450721981142013-07-31T11:37:00.003-07:002013-08-01T10:20:37.300-07:006 Reasons I'm Glad It's Not About Me<div style="text-align: center;">
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This week we were asked to open for the latest Reno visit by a <a href="http://theafters.com/" target="_blank">Nashville "Christian" band</a>. We had a blast. They were sincere and warm guys. There were worshipful moments and just plain good ol' fashioned fun throughout the evening.<br />
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It also served as a potent reminder that while I enjoy a good show, a concert is not by design the same event as a typical Sunday in our churches. This concept is nothing new to most of us, but I have never detailed why I am <i>thankful</i> that <i>the church gathered is not about me</i>. If you believe otherwise as a worship leader, you will find yourself in deep water quickly. Here are 6 reasons I am glad Sundays aren't about me: <br />
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1. No one wants to go to the same concert once a week for the foreseeable future.</b><br />
Comparatively speaking, worship is deeper than entertaining. If a worship leader attempts to entertain your local body, you have an impossible task. Adele, Mumford and Sons, and Brad Paisley all travel from place to place; why do you think <i>you</i> and your Taylor guitar can bear the weight of entertaining your people in one location week after week? The greatest act in the world gets boring eventually.<br />
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What if instead the central purpose of Sunday is remembering who Jesus is and what He has done? What if Sunday's platform is solely for you to point like a neon sign at what is already amazing and beautiful, namely Jesus Christ. Now that's a well that doesn't run dry.<br />
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<b>2. My emotions are fickle and wavering.</b><br />
Sure, I feel peaceful/content/godly right now. Give me 5 minutes. Ephesians 4 and James 1 warn against being tossed around like a toy boat on stormy seas between belief and doubt or the gospel and false doctrine. If Sunday is going to be about me, I'm going to need to do the impossible: be consistent in character and attitude with no wavering, <i>no exceptions</i>. <br />
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<b>3. In God's economy, I am as bankrupt as those off the stage.</b><br />
You don't ask homeless people for loans, right? There is only one rich and gracious benefactor on Sunday, and it's not anyone with a microphone. The stage in church has been useful for showing that the preached word is authoritative, and that the people follow the cues of the song leader. It has done damage however, in making us worship leaders believe we are 3 feet closer to God than everyone else.<br />
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<b>4. I would surely break under the weight of people's expectations and affections.</b><br />
People expect too much of music already. I don't need to portray the music set as an opportunity for me or the music to fix anyone.<b> </b>The Spirit moves in times of worship for sure, but we often reinforce the idea that the music itself has healing powers. The primary danger isn't in those that are disappointed with you right away...it's those that believe that the music is healing/fixing/helping them <i>now</i> only to discover later that it stopped "working". That kind of crushing weight will chase us all down. We won't and can't hold it up.<br />
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5. The Devil is in the details...and the tuner pedal</b><b><b>.</b></b><br />
No matter how much I prepare and practice, I can never guarantee perfection musically or technologically.<b> </b>I think the modern church is plagued by an army of technology demons, possessing guitar pedals, severing wires, and busting solder joints for kicks on Saturday nights. Every worship leader knows this, but we still get caught up in the hunger game of achieving the perfect execution.<b> </b>Desiring to execute your service well to avoid distraction, and desiring to execute your service well to feel like you nailed it look the same on the surface. You may even confuse the two yourself.<b> </b>You can't control when that projector bulb calls it quits or when that string breaks every time, so rest in knowing that Jesus has got this.<b><br /><br />
6. The people of my church don't need another perfect model or mediator. </b><br />
The one they have works just fine. I don't think it's wise to apply for a position that is already filled. Nobody wins in that scenario.<b> </b> If you stop a moment and watch Him, He is doing a pretty stand up job at it too.<b><br /></b>Zimmermanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13290750188325873620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6358077526929214410.post-35055694811216024662013-07-30T22:18:00.000-07:002013-07-31T15:19:00.454-07:00Pics from the Afters ShowA few pics from our night with <a href="http://theafters.com/" target="_blank">the Afters</a>.<br />
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<br />Zimmermanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13290750188325873620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6358077526929214410.post-65745891783222171712013-07-27T07:27:00.002-07:002013-09-17T12:57:30.378-07:00Sneak Peek...For a limited time, we're giving a sneak peek of some demos for our record we are working on, "Hopefully Broken". Enjoy!<br />
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<iframe frameborder="no" height="450" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Fusers%2F6501666" width="100%"></iframe>Zimmermanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13290750188325873620noreply@blogger.com0