10 Things Every Worship Leader Wishes Their Sound Person Knew (and vice versa)

As a worship leader and former sound guy I realize there are areas of tension between the two positions.  The goal of the Worship leader and the sound person are identical – to provide as few distractions for the worshipper as possible.  I don’t feel as if those are necessary tensions and with just a little communication tensions could subside (at least until the following Sunday).

10 Things Every Worship Leader Wishes Their Sound Person Knew

1. Sorry, that equipment is not in the budget
2. I realize when I ask for more of “me” you just put your hand on the knob, looking at me without actually turning that knob while waiting for me to tell you perfect (tricky tricky)
3. An acceptable volume level is not when less than 10 people complain

4. Vocals and Melody are really the most important thing for a congregation to hear
5. A drum cage is a great way to control the sounds of our drummer (however I am not opposed to chains like Animal from the muppets)
6. Microphone cues aren’t mere suggestions like the speed limit
7. When you do a good job I look good, when you do a bad job you look bad – its just the way it is
8. Really you don’t own that booth – you are part of a team
9. Batteries, Batteries, Batteries… need I say more
10. You are a vital part to making people experience worship – thank you for your hard work and dedication – this is something I don’t tell you enough and should tell you more.

10 Things Every Sound Person Wishes Their Worship Leader Knew

1. It may not be in the budget but you should never buy microphones that are “2 for 1″ Seriously? In the case of musical and sound equipment, you get what you pay for – don’t be cheap if you want better sound
2. You have no idea if I am turning that knob or not when you want more in the monitor – trust me
3. Do you want a good mix or and acceptable volume level – it’s one or the other.
4. My job is basically to make louder whatever you give me – so a better mix starts at the stage!!!!!
5. A drum cage makes the drums sound like they are in a box – there is a reason you never see them in real life
6. More speakers doesn’t mean louder – it means a fuller sound at a lower volume level and better coverage – trust me
7. Do you want me to mix or produce? cause that one guy is completely overplaying
8. I can achieve anything with enough coffee
9. Soundcheck time is not practice time
10. When it really comes down to it – my goal is not to draw attention to myself but help point the congregation towards Christ – I am grateful to help you in this endeavor

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1. 5 Ways the Worship Leader is Responsible for the Sound…
2. Tech Review: Audix Microboom
3. The 5 Guitar Players You Meet at Church
4. Leading Change: 5 Ways to Change the Worship Enviroment
5. Contemplative Creativity: A Year in Review