Ok, so the title IS a bit harsh… Maybe the post will be as well…
I’m now considering a career in sensationalized journalism, so I figured I would jump right into a catchy title!
For a little background, read my previous post. I suppose this is Part 2 of that post.
On with it…
As I mentioned, I was at a small regional worship arts seminar last weekend. The seminar was really very good. The 2 small ministry groups from the college where it was held on the other hand…
A little background. This particular college, let’s just call it my Alma Mater for truth’s sake, had an ongoing small group ministry for several decades. It changed names, styles and overall function over the years, but as far as I know, there was a small group from the early 80’s (maybe even the 70’s) thru about 2009. Lacking upper level management leadership, focus and dedicated funds for an ongoing small group ministry, it was shut down. A few years later, the school decided to resurrect a small group music ministry. They hired a great guy with multiple ties to the institution, a good educational resume and decent experience.
But the talent, where did that go?
The 2 groups that led music during the worship arts event lacked what I will call “basic stage presence and performing” skills.
I should do some research on performance as related to leading worship. I’m sure there are certainly plenty of articles written on the subject. And now I add my own.
I generally feel better about music in a live setting when the people on stage have, well, a certain presence. That’s why it’s called “Stage Presence”. A smile on the face. Body language that evokes a sense of actually wanting to be there. Eye contact with the people in the audience. Talking with confidence. You know, everything you can generally find from a death metal band, well, except for perhaps the smiles…
This bands had none of that. No joy. No sense of wanting to be there. No confidence whatsoever. No excellence. It was, dare I say it, almost apathetic. And maybe that’s too strong of a word. I think they were/are really just ignorant of where they “are” as musicians/performers.
Here’s the way I see it. ANY time someone gets up on a stage for generally ANY thing, there’s a level of performing that happens. It’s not a natural thing for us to be on a stage. Yes, we use the term “natural performer” but that doesn’t mean “performing” is a natural expression. One must dig into the depths and pull out something that’s somewhat out of body. It’s NOT natural.
And I feel this holds true for musicians/singers/preachers/etc., even in a church service or other “worship” experience. The audience can’t worship without feeling some of that “love” from the stage. You might very well be having a “moment” on stage. But, if it doesn’t come across TO the audience, you’re better off having that moment in private.
In an interesting note… during a prayer, one of the students in the band prayed about the “most excellent worship”.
