A good work environment is a top reason many stay at a certain job for a long time. Churches can expect the same thing, even with their volunteers. The environment in which we serve is crucial. Most of the responsibility—beside the attitudes of the individuals on our teams—depends on leadership.
One of the best books on music I’ve read in a long time has been Making Records: The Scenes Behind the Music, written by the great music producer, Phil Ramone. In it, Ramone defines the role of record producer as roughly equivalent to that of a film director, creating and managing an environment in which to coax the best work out of his performers.
Worship leaders can help or hurt the emotional environment of their teams by either fostering an uplifting, supportive vibe in rehearsal and performance, or one that is critical and uptight. As a music producer, worship leader and music director myself, I try to avoid being critical, too demanding, judgmental or negative. A person with an artistic temperament will fold like a lawn chair when the environment is full of negativity and verbal criticism—especially when they feel degraded in front of others. Musicians and singers are artists, so good leaders must be mindful to foster camaraderie within the team, and a positive, nurturing atmosphere during rehearsals and in the services—if they hope for a sweet spirit of worship to flourish in their church.
How do we foster a creative environment? “‘Joviality,’ says Ramone, ‘taking your time…Convincing people that they are really good and getting them to play at a new level, that’s what I look for. And understanding what the assignment is [in our case it’s leading or congregations to the throne of God through worship], because that’s forgotten for most of the time. People can perform and play well, but the actual intent in what they’re trying to do in the music can be lost. Trying to get everybody on the same page is what being a good producer is about'” (Sound On Sound, April 2005).
Producer John Burk, after Ramone’s death in 2013, recalled co-producing Ray Charles’ Genius Loves Company with the legendary producer. He said, “It’s funny: If you weren’t paying attention, it would seem like Phil was this guy hanging out, telling stories and making everyone laugh. From him I learned how to create an environment. He knew how to get the flow right and let the artists work at their own pace. He used to say half the battle is letting them know that you care about them” (Phil Gallo, Billboard Magazine, March 30, 2013).
As worship leaders, we can learn much from Phil Ramone. We must be sensitive to maintain a creative environment for our teams. To push beyond the emotional limits of our team members will only lead to diminishing returns.