Mastering the skill of an effective musical artist requires a lifetime of practice, patience and persistence. Many people call it quits way too early while on the road to musical maturity. They either get discouraged—because it’s too tough or it’s taking too long—or they are intimidated by others who are more advanced.
Artists like Linda Ronstadt have worked an entire career to perfect their craft. In an article from Rock Seller Magazine, Linda tells of three areas upon which every musical artist must concentrate in order to grow as a performer. I believe what Ronstadt says is applicable to worship leaders as well:
“I always say there are three elements that go into music. There’s story, there’s voice and there’s musicianship. Some people are stronger in one area than another. I was strong on story and strong on voice but not as strong on musicianship but that came later and I learned after a while. I thought I just couldn’t learn because I didn’t have it. I didn’t realize people spend years in conservatories honing these skills. (laughs) And I never did any of that. I couldn’t read music and wasn’t very proficient at an instrument, which was a huge mistake because I could have been. I can pick up the guitar and play it but I never really worked at it because there were so many good guitar players around. I mean, why bother? That was a big mistake” (Article by Ken Sharp—Rock Cellar Magazine, Oct. 3, 2013).
Let’s apply Linda Ronstadt’s three elements—voice, story and musicianship— to the role of worship leader, singer and musician in the church.
Story
As worship leaders, artists, musicians and singers, we must always convey honesty in every song we present. We must learn to deliver the message with the emotion, tenderness, tragedy and earnestness that each song’s story demands. Our skill in song delivery is what will help a congregation believe what we’re singing. Our goal is that they join us on the journey toward the throne of God.
We not only tell the story with our voices, but with our body language and our facial expressions as well.
Voice
Linda Ronstadt’s voice is spectacular, and most of us will never attain her stature as a singer. But we can still be effective worship leaders, even with all our flaws and shortcomings.
There are four basic qualities—especially in modern worship— that are essential for a lead vocalist: 1) to sing on pitch, 2) to avoid excessive vibrato, 3) to have vocal character that fits well with pop music stylings, and 4) to blend well with other singers.
In worship, the congregation is the lead singer. So it’s important to choose keys that are suitable for our congregations to sing. Below is a simple diagram that shows the limited range of an average congregation. Choose song keys that allow the melodies to stay within these musical margins, and I bet your congregations will sing along like never before!
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| (Diagram: courtesy of Jamie Harvill, from his book, Worship Foundry) |
It’s essential to also mention that a tenor and soprano’s vocal ranges fall comfortably within this congregational singing range. Altos and baritones, while keying songs for the melody to stay within this range, may find it difficult to sing.
Whatever your particular vocal range, worship the Lord with everything you have. Always be yourself, and allow your unique vocal quality to shine.
Musicianship
One of the greatest hinderances for worship leaders and singers is a lack of musicianship. It’s important to know the technical ins and outs of music when working out songs and worship sets. Take Ronstadt’s advice and become proficient in chords and harmony.
Learn to recognize and break down the inner workings of each song you use. Study music theory. Gain knowledge about each instrument in the band and how to communicate with your musicians in a musically literate way. Learn to pick out vocal parts and to articulate dynamic nuances to your singers. These skills will garner respect and confidence from fellow staff and team members.
Take Ronstadt’s advice and do your best to hone all three elements: story, voice and musicianship. Our teams and congregations will surely be blessed, but most of all, God will be honored!
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