General Team Standards
1 Regular practice
A band member should be proficient in the instrument (or voice, or machine) that they bring to the movement. The ability to play well in different styles makes a musician quite valuable! A broad range including (but not limited to) funk, bluegrass, metal, reggae, electronic, punk, classical, and of course, our favorite, rock, should be known.
2 Regular listening
Not much can be more valuable to a team member than knowing the song that they are shaping. Above was mentioned the value in diversity, here is mentioned the value in zooming way in: listening to one song over and over and over again. Mastering every note for the part you are playing, will broaden your horizons and solidify your groove. Professional musicians do what they do for a reason. Master it, and then, if you can improve on it, add your own flair.
3 Respect for team members
Making it a habit to come to practice a few minutes early, memorizing music before practice, being aware of the part that every other person is playing, focusing on worship and music during practice, making notes on your lead sheets, tuning early, bringing water, extra strings, sticks, a pen, and a heart for worship, will have a huge impact on the smoothness of practices and good moral. Coming to practice well prepared and happy will make a bigger impact than even what you play.
4 Instrumental ownership
Each band member should own the instrument that they are playing, and any amps, effects and accessories that go with it. This will allow you to practice during the week and it will improve the quality of your contribution during the weekend!
5 A Heart of Worship
As a disciple of Christ, nothing is more vital than spending time each day in prayer and getting in The Word. A strong connection with God is the catalyst that makes everything we do a smashing success!
