WORSHIP LEADING: Introducing a new song There are so many factors at play when bringing new songs into a church service, it can be easy to lose sight of the fact that although teaching the components of the song well is important, the main purpose of a worship leader is to lead the people, help them find their way to Jesus! So here are some thoughts and points to consider when leading and bringing new songs at Hillsong Church.
Preparation +++ Understand the power of a New Song ● New songs give us new ways to express ourselves in worship to God, to minister to, magnify and petition God. We can often gain fresh perspective on gratitude and devotion. ● Songs can often seed thought provoking themes to meditate on and pursue revelation through God's Word. Know the song! ● Learn it Get a good grasp of the melody. If the writer is available, ask them if you have it right. The writers want their songs to be presented well so will most often be happy to help! ● Gain an understanding of the foundational scripture(s) ● If there is a story behind the song, find out what it is to gain perspective or if the writer is available ask them to explain. Find a takeaway ● Find a line or a point in the song that carries scriptural impact or encouragement that you can place emphasis on when you are leading it. This enables people to identify with biblical truth that helps close the gap between "learning a new song” and "gathered in agreement" worship. ● Plan for this point of emphasis during the song; work with the band to support this dynamically. ● Example: Oh Praise the Name Oh trampled death, where is your sting?
Execution +++ Key the song for success (for everyone) ● Putting the song in a key that will offer strong execution is important. However, if you have an enormous vocal range, the optimal key for you may put the song out of the reach of the average churchgoer so find the balance between execution and the “ease of participation” for the congregation. ● This will require working with your MD and band ahead of time. Give people time to prepare, this also helps present the song as best possible. Sing clearly and be diligent with pronunciation ● Mumbling! It is extremely difficult to learn the subtle characteristics of a melody if there is no clarity in the delivery. ● Some songs have verses that are low in order to make use of the higher octave for choruses and bridge sometimes these verses need to almost be over pronounced to be intelligible. ● Our people are extremely gracious and will try to learn the song. Make it easy for them by singing clearly; this helps with learning timing and inflection. If the verse is in your lower register, over pronouncing words can help convey intricacies of melody and timing.
WORSHIP LEADING: Introducing a new song Smile/ Relax ● If it looks like you are not enjoying yourself, there isn’t much incentive or encouragement for people to follow or respond to you (or the song). So relax, be in the moment, you know the song so enjoy it! ● Our church is extremely gracious and willing to learn new songs, they love what new songs can contribute into church life. We need to remember this and approach introducing new songs with the excitement of bringing something new! Chorus is king (small k ) ● The first time teaching a song, if I could ask for only one thing it would be that people would remember the chorus (or a prominent bridge). I like to make sure people get plenty of opportunity to sing the chorus. Then maybe next time they can help teach it to those around them. Set up/ Explanation ● Not every song requires the reading of a bible verse and explanation. Some songs will clearly reveal the theme and purpose without an elaborate setup. ● It’s a good idea to check with your Creative Campus Pastor on whether a setup is necessary and/or appropriate for a new song.
Caveats +++ ● ●
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At no point during the introduction of a new song should we be not singing. Teach a clear, confident melody. Understand that saying things like "let's sing together" or "you sing" are difficult requests to follow for a congregation when they have never heard the song before!!! (Don't sweat it if you have done this, we all have ). If you are the lead vocal you are not just leading worship but you are also are teaching the melody. It is important to stick to the melody . It sounds basic enough, but it is easy to get excited and pull out the raves; or if the song is too low for you, there is the temptation to go off melody. This may work fine with an established song but with a new song you will just leave your parishioners a little confused as to what to sing. (Once again, we've all done it).
Teaching new songs can be daunting but can also incredibly rewarding! Put your best into learning, planning and presenting these great new songs and watch them contribute to the life of our church!!! Go Well. Jad Gillies
