I have always been picky when it comes to inviting musicians to lead in youth ministry events. It started in my first job as a youth director working with what was at the time known as “alpha teens”. These are students whose taste in things like music are ahead of the trends. I dared not invite any cheesy bands lest I lose credibility and see our numbers plummet.
Now I run youth events for an Anglican diocese (regional collection of 50 churches), which I’ve been doing for more than 17 years. Worship music is a key component to what we do on our weekend events, which have ranged from 75 to nearly 400 hundred students depending on the event. There are plenty of musicians interested in playing for us but few that I will draw on.
What makes me particular when it comes to worship leading bands or musicians? Experience has taught me not only what works for our setting but what blesses our vision for youth ministry. This has meant turning down many musicians and seeking out others. I was reflecting recently on our repeated work with one band in particular and how they so perfectly fit our vision.
The Birdsongs are a family of musicians. The current line up is three brothers and a sister. We have been amazed at how well they serve our needs and further our vision. They have the key ingredients I look for in a band that will lead worship music at our events. Perhaps reflecting on these will help you think about what you value in a worship band or musician.
A deep and genuine humility.
There are no egos in the band or expressions of false humility. Rather we find an authenticity in the family that is truly special. The are not performers during worship yet when we ask them to do a concert, they captivate the audience.
A willingness to do the music that best suits our needs.
Given our tradition, we value hymns old and new as well as the most contemporary of worship songs. I have zero interest in working with musicians who are not interested in my input for the song selection. The Birdsongs work to meet our needs rather than serve their own tastes or preferences. They also mix musical styles better than any group I have ever worked with.
An ability to connect well with students.
This is both from the front and in interaction with individual students throughout the event. This has been the most appreciated aspect of the group apart from their talent. They are fully present at our events and love time spent talking with teens.
Drawing students into worship without being a distraction.
Some bands talk between every song, preach little sermonettes, or try to create moments that are not necessarily there. The Birdsongs lead us into worship, capture the attention of students and direct that attention to the one we are worshipping. In my mind, the mark of a good worship leader is to know when to shut up and let the spirit work.
A passion for the gospel of grace.
For us there are no better people to work with than those that know we are all broken people saved by grace. This is the sort of truth that seeps wonderfully into worship and peppers conversations between sessions. It is truly a blessing when it seeps in rather than being forced.
There are many other musicians and bands that we have used who bless us. As I reflect on the subject though, these guys (and gal) really epitomize the best of the best. They make it easy for me to share some fairly coherent reflections.
What blesses your events when it comes to worship music?
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