Saturday, July 25, 2009

What is the Role of the Church Pianist? Part One

Good question! The role of the church pianist varies from church
to church.

Before I share some thoughts with you...I'll explain our church...
so that you can understand where I'm coming from.

Our church is in the country nestled in the foothills of North Carolina.

The people are very friendly and family-oriented.

Most of the members have lived in the area most of their life.

What I'm trying to say is...the needs of the church determines the
criteria for the church pianist.

In some churches, the church pianist may be the only music person
available. In this case, the pianist may have to lead the congregation
and choir in song while playing the piano. What a challenge!
I know of at least one of my readers in this situation. I admire her
for her efforts.

At other churches, the pianist may serve the as role as pianist only.
(That's my role).

Whether you're the main person or just filling the role as church
pianist...the following tips will hopefully encourage and direct you
as you serve in the music ministry.

These are things that have personally helped me in my way of
thinking towards serving the music ministry.

1. I'm a servant...serving the Lord

2. Not to think of myself above others; no comparision
Each church member is of equal importance to God.

3. Love my church family

The following are natural outcomes of point #3...

4. Support and encourage those in the music ministry.
Example: "Your song was a blessing" or "Thanks for being
willing to sing or play."

5. Pray for those in the music ministry

6. Always communicate in love

7. Use constructive guidance as needed
(This can occur only after building a trusting relationship.)

This applies if the person or persons you're accompanying
are seeking helpful pointers.

Please understand...these are just a few ideas that have helped
to create a proper mindset in me as church pianist.

Each church is unique as far as their needs. Just ask God for
wisdom as you seek to serve Him where He has placed you.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


Some of the following issues will be covered in part two:

*The relationship between the song leader and church pianist
(Who's in charge?)

*Job description of the church pianist (What's expected of me?)

*Developing the Special Music Program
(How the church pianist can help grow the special music program)

I can't wait to share these ideas with you in detail.

After reading this article, you may come up with your own ideas of
ways to become more effective as church pianist.

Above all else, may God receive the glory of our efforts as we seek
to serve Him in the role of church pianist.

Part Two of this article can be found at: http://thechurchpianist.com/?p=407

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