Finding-Getting Church Gigs

[graywacke]

I have been looking to get a church gig, but don't know how to go about it. I was hoping other church bass players could give their two cents.

I played for a Catholic church once after being invited by a member who was in the choir. I liked it because it helped me become a better player in the long run. I no longer play there due to the revolving door of music directors and the fact I felt used so to speak as I was the only one who was never paid after a budget was available for others.

I would like to now play for a more stable church such as one of the megachurch types where there is a full stage and more contemporary music along with some type of pay, but don't know how to go about it - especially without making myself sound as if I'm only concerned with money.

[markjazzbassist]

go to a bunch of the prospective churches and after the service talk to the worship director/leader. Tell them you are looking for a church and play bass and would like to be a part of the worship team if you joined the church. They will tell you if it's likely or not.

I don't know about where you live, but I don't get paid at my church. If money is that big of an issue I would just do secular music. You might have to play for a while unpaid before you get a paycheck.

Just my .02

[mr sprocket]

Try backpage.com and look in your area. I have found a few churchs that way. However I ended up waiting to play at my own church. It is becoming more common for churchs to have better sound systems and a contemporary service.

Visit the churches chat with the music director or band members. Get a feel for the church. I responded to one ad not long ago where the church desperately needed a bass player but when they found out I was not their denomination that offer ended. So keep in mind the religious part of the gig. Some churchs are more open and friendly than others.

As for pay I do not get paid at my church. I have recieved fill in money $20-50 before. We even have a few churchs paying fairly large sums. One is suspected but not confirmed of $500 a week. However competition on the paid jobs is greater. THe pay aspect also clouds the reason for worship bands sometimes were it becomes about the money and not about faith.