At some point in our "careers", we reach a place where it seems like we've hit the ceiling. So how can we continue to grow musically? Here are some thoughts:
*Learn to sing....naked. Yes that's right. Put the guitar down and sing.
*Learn to run the sound board if your church has one. It will give you a greater appreciation for the sound peple and you'll gain an understanding of what happens in the "real world" (what the audience hears).
*Listen to music that may not have a lot of guitar stuff in it. This way, you'll get to underdastand how music works in a rather practical way and without being distracted by cool guitar licks.
*Record yourself. Even if you think you're a horrible guitarist, you can still benefit from hearing yourself progress and even gain inspiration from some of your "mistakes'.
And finally...
*Remember that music is an art, so be creative. Play stuff that doesn't make sense sometimes and don't be so legalistic in your thinking. Obvisously some things are not meant to be, but don't be afraid to experiment and try things that might seem wierd...of course you'll want to do this BEFORE you get on stage or your MD or MOM will look at you like you're crazy. Don't forget to have fun; music is not a life and death issue...unless you play for the Dark Lord of the Sith
. It's not a competition either so you and the rest of the band must work together to accomplish the musical and spiritual goals of the music ministry.
