The Role of a Music Director

 
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Recently, many churches have been appointing Music Directors into their worship bands. A Music Director (a.k.a. Band Leader) is the person in charge of the overall musicality of the band. Often the music ministry team is composed of volunteers of varying skill levels, having to learn new songs and/or arrangements that are introduced each week. Thus, it is very helpful to have someone facilitating the band.

Before proceeding, it is important to note that the MD should be under the leadership of the Worship Leader (WL) and acts as his/her a liaison/translator. Ultimately, it is the MD’s job to listen and follow what the WL wants.

MDs are generally the most skillful member of the team. It is my personal belief that music directors must have some knowledge in music theory.

Here are 5 key responsibilities of a MD, among others, that I would like to elaborate on.

Be responsible in learning songs and arrangements. 

As the MD, it is imperative that the MD learns not just his or her part(s), but the whole band. This is not a cop out for other musicians to rely on the MD, but so the MD knows what exactly is going on, and what should happen next. 

Have an understanding of music in terms of chords and progressions.

As stated, it is my personal belief that music directors understand chords and progressions. Knowing the Nashville Number System has helped me direct the band in a much clearer and easier way. Knowing music theory has also greatly facilitated moments of prophetic spontaneity. Understanding the theme of each prophetic / spontaneous song and translating it using specific chord progressions has been integral in my journey as an MD.

Be ready in facilitating the group to execute the arrangement and help those who are struggling playing the song.

Having a servant leader attitude is, to me the best way to engage those who are struggling to play the song. If there is a need to talk to band members regarding attitude or a lack of practice, courageous conversations are recommended, provided the tone of the conversation is objective and encouraging.

Hear in detail what the other instruments are playing.

In any band setting, listening is way more important than playing. Listening and understanding the dynamic flow of the set helps the Music Director facilitate music dynamics clearer. Of course, this has to be in line with the Worship Leader’s direction.

Give concrete instructions to the band members.

As a music director, whether you have a microphone to direct the band or not, it is important to give clear, concrete instructions on where the worship leader wants to go, and how to achieve that technically. 

In summary, what I have learnt as a MD is that I am still under the leadership of the Worship Leader. I can propose ideas of arrangements, hooks, chord progression changes or groove changes but ultimately the final decision is made by the Worship Leader. Have a servant leader attitude and serve the band. Ultimately, the first shall be the last, and the last first!

 
Blog, Worship, Creative, Leadership, Ministry, School, TechnicalGideon LimComment
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