“Kit talk”- by Max Brown

Over the past year, I’ve been playing drums for the worship band at Church at the Oaks. Without a doubt, my skillset has grown over that time, and I feel more and more equipped each week to play on Sunday. However, much more important than any sick tom groove or triplet drum fill that I’ve learned, the Lord has used worship drumming over the past year to teach me important lessons.

Lesson #1: Be available and willing, even when it may seem uncomfortable.

This one might be the most important (at least, it was for me). Going into college, I never thought I’d touch a drum kit again. My time drumming in high school wasn’t exactly the most enjoyable experience, so I did not come to college with a desire to continue that particular activity. However, during my first semester at UA, I heard there was a new church in town. Suddenly, I had a strong conviction, “I bet they need a worship drummer.” As it turns out, they did. Despite my lack of expectations, the Lord taught me through that process how important it is to be available and willing.

Lesson #2: Practice well.

This one ought to go without saying. However, from personal experience, I cannot emphasize enough how important it is to know the songs BEFORE rehearsal. Remind yourself that you’re on a team, and the better you know the music, the smoother the team as a whole will operate.

Lesson #3: Cut yourself some slack.

Remember, you are not the star of the show. As worship leaders, we are merely vessels to bring glory to the Father. Therefore, the pressure has been removed from us. Go into each Sunday humble and expectant to see the Lord move.