Monthly Articles

The Vocal Coach

The Vocal Coach - Aug 2004

Traveling to different churches and concert settings you will encounter many different situations. This month we want to think about some of those circumstances and how to handle them.

When you arrive always remember that even if you are the main attraction you are still the guest of the church or association that invited you. So, with that in mind you want to always behave as you would in some ones home that had invited you over. Never start moving furniture around or rearranging it without asking first. Many times there will be antiques or delicate furnishings that you would not want to be responsible for should they get damaged. Ask someone that is in charge of the church or association to move those items. If you should damage something that could not be replaced you could end up being sued. It has happened before in the past. It is wise to have a Liability Insurance policy for your group so you will be protected. If an audience member trips over a speaker cable and gets injured you could be in major financial trouble if you are not covered.

A policy is not that expensive but well worth the cost if you should need it. But the best thing is to not be responsible for things of value. Always be sure to put everything back like you found it when you are leaving. Take a good look at where everything is located before you move anything so you will know where to replace them correctly. They should not be able to tell that you were ever there.

One thing that is difficult for some people is being flexible. Remember you are the guest of the church and they will have their own way of doing things. You have to be able to flow with their plans. You are there to serve not be served so it is very important to be able to flow into their service with your ministry. If you insist on doing things your way you probable will not be invited back. So ask how can you help them with the service.

The biggest problems usually come with the sound systems. It’s either to loud or not loud enough. But give them what they want to make them happy. With the new ear monitors you don’t have to have it very loud in the house speakers to be able to hear. So let your sound person keep it at a pleasing level.

And the last thing to touch on is not to get into denominational issues in your ministry. Everyone will not except yours or my denominational beliefs. Always minister with the WORD OF GOD only. It’s not about making everyone believe the way you do but leading him or her to the Lord and allowing the church of their choice to go from that point. So leave your personal denomination at home and go armed with the Word only. The Holy Spirit will lead you and keep you out of trouble if you listen to it.

I hope to see everyone at NQC this year. Look for me at Dr. Charles Novell’s Christian Music Conference Booth. Please stop by and take a look at the school information and pray about going next year. It was a great experience this year and looks to be even better in 2005. You will never regret spending a week concentrating on your ministry. You can count on making life long friends and being blessed with a tremendous amount of information. The staff is some of the top performers in the Southern Gospel Industry. This is the school with a focus on Southern Gospel Music. Check it out!

Until next time, keep singing His Praises!