The Unsung Hero

I’ve found over the years there’s an indispensable member of any worship team – the sound guy.  Maybe I should say ‘sound person’ – it’s always been a guy in my churches, but it’s probably a gal somewhere out there.  In one of my previous blogs I suggested you remember to pray often for every member of your team.  Don’t neglect the sound person in this.

Volumes could be written by our sound people on the challenges involved in running sound. All of us need to appreciate the skill set involved in this ministry.  Seek out professional training for your team in regard to sound.   Professional sound techs and sound workshops are available to train those who run the sound, as well as the vocalists and instrumentalists on the proper use of the equipment.

Professionals who train the team will most likely take a look at your equipment and assess what needs to be repaired and replaced.   When replacing something, keep in mind one church’s ‘trash’ can be another church’s ‘treasure.’  Churches south of the equator can make use of older wireless equipment which are no longer allowed here in the States, due to the new federal sound frequency regulations.

We as a team also need to learn to effectively communicate with the sound person during rehearsal, and even occasionally during the worship service.  At rehearsal I normally ask my sound person to use a mic as he leads us through individual monitor checks, followed by an overall sound check during our first song.   The sound person needs to remain attentive at the board throughout rehearsal and throughout the worship service. 

Remember – when something odd happens during the service, it’s often not the sound person’s fault.  It’s more likely an equipment malfunction, a battery needing to be replaced, or something we ourselves are doing.  These situations are usually difficult to re-create afterwards, so as you try to assess the situation, include your sound person in the discussion.

The sound guy is the ‘unsung’ hero because he is the unseen member of all worship teams.  Instead of ignoring him until something goes wrong, lets pray for and support this important ministry.