Help with getting started playing bass at a church

[Danny O Danny]

As a Christian and worship leader at my church, I’m shocked at what you’re planning to do. I’m equally surprised at the many replies giving you tips on how to go about it, but very glad a few others eventually explained it correctly.

I don't think it's a matter of what is "correct" but merely a matter of what the expectations typically are within churches. A lot of churches want their musicians to be bona fide participants in the life of the church (which implies agreement with doctrines, values, etc.). On the other hand, I have known churches that see it as a form of discipleship or even "friendship evangelism" to fairly quickly allow/invite newcomers to join into ministries, including the worship band (if they can cut the mustard musically). It's less common (perhaps because it means extending trust), but it does occur. Additionally, my observation has been that the more in need of musicians a church is, the more open they are to inviting anyone to play who has a modicum of ability, with less regard to things like "calling" or church membership.

To the OP: Like with many things, relationships can make a significant difference. If you have (or make) friends who are worship musicians and/or do some networking, there is a higher possibility of being asked to sit in with a worship band. I think it's pretty cool that you want to play worship music and I'd love to hear more about what's drawn you in that direction.

 

[JeezyMcNuggles]

I'm really lost on this one. Been playing bass for 2.5 years now, alone, and want to play in a church band to start out playing with other people. What kind of church would have a band with a bass player? I don't want to just walk into church after church on a Sunday mornings to attend mass to find out they don't have a band. I don't care what the religion is, I just want to possibly play there. Can anyone list the type of churches/congregations I can research? What's one song I could learn that is church music? Then I will just walk into the church when its not going on and talk to someone.

Mass is Catholicism. They dont have bands. You want a contemporary protestant church. But, if you don't know that, why in the world would you want to start attending church just to play an instrument. First, you wouldn't get a shot unless you were a regular or dues paying member anyway. And, that kinda completely defeats the purpose of attending church as a whole. Church is about God, not you. My advice is, get some friends. If you want to start going to church, find a church that suits you and your beliefs. If you want to play music, find people that play music.

 

[wintremute]

I'm really lost on this one. Been playing bass for 2.5 years now, alone, and want to play in a church band to start out playing with other people. What kind of church would have a band with a bass player? I don't want to just walk into church after church on a Sunday mornings to attend mass to find out they don't have a band. I don't care what the religion is, I just want to possibly play there. Can anyone list the type of churches/congregations I can research? What's one song I could learn that is church music? Then I will just walk into the church when its not going on and talk to someone.

Where in Vegas are you? I played at Life Springs on Eastern and Warm Springs. PM me.

 

[fretlessbass]

Here in southern AZ, it seems that every working musician--religious or not-- has a steady, paying church gig--including me.
I have never sought church gigs, but rather have been offered work:
I explain to them upfront that I am Jewish, and that, while I will always conduct myself respectfully, I will not participate in worship.
I've only had to decline one gig--and that was because the church really preferred a Christian for what was to be a steady position; I would've been an uncomfortable fit!
I currently work for a very liberal congregation that seems to be fine with having a Jewish bass player...as long as I play the right notes!

 

[Blueinred]

Here's a medley of two very popular CCM tunes that you might be asked to play. Awesome vocalist.

 

[Fun Size Nick]

I don't think it's a matter of what is "correct" but merely a matter of what the expectations typically are within churches. A lot of churches want their musicians to be bona fide participants in the life of the church (which implies agreement with doctrines, values, etc.). On the other hand, I have known churches that see it as a form of discipleship or even "friendship evangelism" to fairly quickly allow/invite newcomers to join into ministries, including the worship band (if they can cut the mustard musically). It's less common (perhaps because it means extending trust), but it does occur. Additionally, my observation has been that the more in need of musicians a church is, the more open they are to inviting anyone to play who has a modicum of ability, with less regard to things like "calling" or church membership.

To the OP: Like with many things, relationships can make a significant difference. If you have (or make) friends who are worship musicians and/or do some networking, there is a higher possibility of being asked to sit in with a worship band. I think it's pretty cool that you want to play worship music and I'd love to hear more about what's drawn you in that direction.

I agree - it's really up to each church to decide what their requirements are, and if they're willing to have you then great.

@Zen Ho As someone who plays in church as well, I can understand your position, but I don't think it's particularly shocking that someone would notice that there is a lot of music going on in churches and might see that as an appealing way to get some experience playing in front of people. It really is a good way for new players to go out and play with others, make mistakes in a (hopefully) forgiving environment, learn, and grow musically, without having to deal with the business side of finding/forming a band, figuring out a good set, working with venue management etc. I don't think it's a coincidence that so many great mainstream artists have come up out of the church - what other social institution has such a close relationship with regularly participating in music, even if 'just' as a congregant? I think we have quite a leg up in this way, I'm thankful for the start that I got in playing in church bands as a teenager, and still love playing in the church as well as outside of it.

 

[Bruiser Stone]

As a 1.5 year bassist, my experience the past 9 months in the local church I attend has been an entirely positive and confidence-building experience. I treat it very seriously and diligently practice my part because I’m grateful to be there. I’m reimbursed with experience. But I’ve also attended this church for over 3 years, and they knew me and my faith background with open eyes before allowing me to participate. It’s a very progressive, open congregation in a very conservative geographic area.

As a former member of an evangelical church here in the rural American South, I know that because my beliefs (or lack thereof) have shifted, my old church probably would not permit me the same experience. I’m not sure they would even let me sit in for a single song. That is their privilege to keep a faith requirement, and I understand the reasoning behind it.

I share the above not just to amplify some of the very useful comments before me, but to stress there can be a huge variation in expectations and attitudes regarding your participation even within a single denomination. Church, and in particular all that is beyond the catholic tradition, can be a widely divergent and curious experience.

You should go into any situation with your eyes open. I’m making an assumption: let’s say you find a open spot without pay or other professional, arm’s length arrangement...you are generally welcomed as a new face in the congregation. Consider your own beliefs in advance so that you will be prepared to handle questions that may come a month or two into your tenure. Would you be comfortable if their expectations evolve over time? Consider your commitment financially and in other possible opportunities for involvement in the congregation...some churches will consider this for you. Not all churches come out and say this on day one.

My first musical experience has been fantastic, but the relationship and understanding was already developed. I encourage you to dip your toes in the water first unless it is understood from the beginning you are just there to perform.

 

[Brother Goose]

If you won't go to pray then dont go to play

 

[soundsupport1]

As a trainee pastor, and someone with 18 years experience playing bass in church; if someone came knocking on the door or rang me with your offer, it would be a polite 'no'.
Churches have expectations of the people on the platform; it's unfair, but people in ministry are often put on a pedestal, and therefore judged more harshly when they fall off. That's the negative side of it.
The positive side of it is that people on the platform get the joy and fulfillment that comes from using a gift they have - musicianship (the band), organisational ability (the moderator), theological training and public speaking (the preacher) - to bring others closer to God.
If a complete stranger was suddenly standing on the platform one Sunday, and announced he just wanted to play music and didn't particularly care which religion, I suspect the WL (Worship Leader) would be in a lot of trouble for letting you play in the first place.
I can see that some churches would maybe let someone play as an evangelism opportunity. I wouldn't, I think that's manipulative. "Here's something you want to do, we're going to dangle this carrot in front of your nose in order to draw you into our religion..."

TL;DR - it would cause way more trouble than you're willing to deal with. And even after you left (which you would, with a bitter taste in your mouth). The church that would let you play without knowing any of your 'testimony' is either manipulative, short-sighted, badly-led, or all three. Stay away.

Peace,
SoundSupport

 

[Fun Size Nick]

As a trainee pastor, and someone with 18 years experience playing bass in church; if someone came knocking on the door or rang me with your offer, it would be a polite 'no'.
Churches have expectations of the people on the platform; it's unfair, but people in ministry are often put on a pedestal, and therefore judged more harshly when they fall off. That's the negative side of it.
The positive side of it is that people on the platform get the joy and fulfillment that comes from using a gift they have - musicianship (the band), organisational ability (the moderator), theological training and public speaking (the preacher) - to bring others closer to God.
If a complete stranger was suddenly standing on the platform one Sunday, and announced he just wanted to play music and didn't particularly care which religion, I suspect the WL (Worship Leader) would be in a lot of trouble for letting you play in the first place.
I can see that some churches would maybe let someone play as an evangelism opportunity. I wouldn't, I think that's manipulative. "Here's something you want to do, we're going to dangle this carrot in front of your nose in order to draw you into our religion..."

TL;DR - it would cause way more trouble than you're willing to deal with. And even after you left (which you would, with a bitter taste in your mouth). The church that would let you play without knowing any of your 'testimony' is either manipulative, short-sighted, badly-led, or all three. Stay away.

Peace,
SoundSupport

I don't know, from reading TB it seems like there are quite a few churches in the states that have non-religious folk joining music teams, particularly as a paid gig. Like I said, I think it depends on the church, and the OP might as well ask if that's something they would really like to do.

 

[soundsupport1]

I don't know, from reading TB it seems like there are quite a few churches in the states that have non-religious folk joining music teams, particularly as a paid gig. Like I said, I think it depends on the church, and the OP might as well ask if that's something they would really like to do.

Those churches in the states that are looking for paid musicians are megachurches looking for professionals. The OP mentioned he's only been playing for 2.5 years alone. I neither agree with the model of the megachurches using hired guns regardless of personal religious conviction: nor (and I'm not being insulting here) do I believe that the OP would meet the requirements of those churches anyway. Also, the OP said he wants to play in a band with people; I dunno, but I doubt he wants to dive in in front of 3000 people!

Peace,
SoundSupport

 

[nilorius]

Keep in mind, you will never defeet organs.

 

[BazzaBass]

I'm really lost on this one. Been playing bass for 2.5 years now, alone, and want to play in a church band to start out playing with other people. What kind of church would have a band with a bass player? I don't want to just walk into church after church on a Sunday mornings to attend mass to find out they don't have a band. I don't care what the religion is, I just want to possibly play there. Can anyone list the type of churches/congregations I can research? What's one song I could learn that is church music? Then I will just walk into the church when its not going on and talk to someone.

Spare yourself the angst and just find some musicians who like the same music as you do

 

[deepender]

I play bass on the worship team at my church, and I don't mean to sound "judgey", but I think you may be going about this the wrong way.

Seek out a church that shares your values and beliefs. Attend several different churches. Does the worship set move you? Do you feel God moving in your heart when you're there? Once you find the right church, talk to the worship pastor and let them know you play bass and you'd like to audition.

I auditioned for a church I attended after I'd only been playing about a year. Here in Nashville, I had a LOT of competition and I wasn't politely turned down. I continued singing in the choir at that church until some things changed that my wife and I didn't care much for, so we sought a new church home. I'd been playing about 2 years by this point, and I auditioned at my new church. They were thrilled to have me and I've been volunteering on the worship team ever since. Being in "Music City", it's not uncommon to have some high level pro players and singers on stage with me. I really have to prepare and spend hours a week practicing for the 15-20 minute worship set. But I do it to use my talents for God's service. It's so awesome to see people worship and see God move in them.

Very much this!!!

 

[cattrax]

I'm really lost on this one. Been playing bass for 2.5 years now, alone, and want to play in a church band to start out playing with other people. What kind of church would have a band with a bass player? I don't want to just walk into church after church on a Sunday mornings to attend mass to find out they don't have a band. I don't care what the religion is, I just want to possibly play there. Can anyone list the type of churches/congregations I can research? What's one song I could learn that is church music? Then I will just walk into the church when its not going on and talk to someone.

I'm a worship leader in a small Presbyterian church. Our "band" includes me on acoustic guitar and voice, a pianist, a flutist, and sometimes one or two vocalists. Pretty bare bones. I would welcome someone wanting to play bass with us, even if their skill level to start was only root notes on the beat. They don't have to be a believer.

Over the years, I have worked with several beginning musicians, offering them opportunities to grow. As an example from years ago, a very shy, young boy who sometimes attended our church was learning to play violin for his middle school orchestra. I encouraged him to play with us on one song - I wrote a simple descant line to one of the slower songs we did (only whole notes, one step up or down at a time... extremely simply). He learned it in a week and played the song with us. He received so many compliments from the people in our congregation! The next week he was back, and began "noodling" on his violin, playing something by ear... hearing a familiar tune, I looked up and he was playing the melody from "The Pink Panther" theme and grinning from ear to ear!! He played with us for a couple of years after that. He just needed a chance and a positive experience to boost his confidence.

My point is that there are some churches out there that will welcome less experienced musicians. I was raised Catholic and, as a self taught guitarist, got my start playing in bands for Mass... I remember struggling just trying to keep up with the chord changes.

OP, I wish you were here in Florida! Good luck to you. I'm sure you'll find a church where you'll fit in.
BTW, I need a drummer too!

 

[BlitzCraig]

You're getting a lot of responses here (one thing almost guaranteed on TB lol) and mostly I think they're great - here are my replies to a few of them:

1> "You CAN'T play at a church unless you're a believer/member" - I think this is generally true, but there are enough exceptions (in both big and small churches) that it doesn't have to be the end of the road.

2> "You SHOULDN'T play at a church unless you're a believer/member" - I'm personally torn on this issue... I lean toward agreeing with this line of thought, but have a continuing nagging feeling screaming at me pointing out that perhaps God uses this desire in a person as a call on their life toward Him and His church... surely you will find people on both sides of this issue

3> "Just find a secular band" - certainly an option, though your desire specifically to play with a church may be pointing back to number 2.

4> "find a church that you like first, then talk about playing there." - IMPO, this is the best way to go

At any rate, you've gotten a lot of really good responses - and I'd like to take this opportunity (as a relatively new TB'er myself) to commend the community here for not taking this opportunity to devolve into some of the hateful attacks, name calling, and false debates that have taken over much of social (and other) media

 

[One_Dude]

I think you are making a mistake by automatically eliminating Catholic churches from your list. I have played in Catholic chuches for more than 40 years. Part of that time was on guitar in a Folk Rock group, and the last 30 years as the bass player in three different groups in the same church. I am the only bass player at my church so I have at times played in those different groups at the same time.

My current group is more Folk oriented, but we have some latitude in song selections, from gospel to more contemporary, to an occassional traditional song. In a former group at this church we played a wider variety of material that was in a more modern Christain category. Some of my participation was paid, but most of it has been as a volunteer.

I think those who suggest that you first find a church that you like are correct. Once you do that you can explore their music ministry to see if you like what they do. Be prepared to play or sing written music either by reading the words and notation, or by using chord charts. This is usually necessary due to the size of the song list. Where a secular band may have a song list of maybe 80 songs, our church song list totals about 225 songs, with new ones being added all of the time. One other difference with church bands is that you will probably be playing in a more defined and approved manner. Most churches reserve the right to choose your music or at least approve what you play. I also play in secular bands and I think playing in church bands is an excellent and worthwhile experience that will prepare you in many ways to include secular bands in your future.

Thump on,

One_Dude. Praise & Worship member #1516

 

[Wesley R]

The Church where I attend has multiple campuses and bands at each one. Every one of them that I have heard has a bass player.

 

[pellomoco14]

A couple years ago out there in Los Wages the weekly open jam was at a bar in the middle of the city in the arts district close to South main st.& charleston blvd.
You're lucky to be in a good place for finding opportunities to play music with people. I'd start checking the tack boards at bars and coffee shops.
Its vegas after all so if nothing else you can always get a battery powered amp> Go to Fremont with the bucket drummers, acoustic guitar and key-tar players.

 

[JoshS]

I’m Catholic. My chuch has a bass player. (It isn’t me). Regular traditional Roman Catholic Church in full communion with the archbishop / diocese of Denver.

I tend to go to mass on Saturday evenings. It is a pretty subdued music ministry with 3-5 choir members, plus a pianist, plus a bass player, +/- acoustic guitar, usually plus sometimes a cabasa. It is definitely not “rocking.” I guess in thinking about it, I haven’t noticed it in other Catholic Churches, but I doubt I’d have noticed if I didn’t like bass myself. It really is a tiny choir / music ministry, and the volume in total (all singers, all instruments) is far less than a typical organ would be solo.

Bass player typically plays a pretty simple bass line outlining the hymn, potentially the baritone/bass harmony part.

Edit: We have 3 hymnals in use, one of which is mostly the missal sort of stuff, one of which is the “traditional” songs (past 200 yrs), and one of which is contemporary (past 30 yrs) that a progressive chuch would use. We can go weeks without touching a song in the contemporary hymnal, even with a young, new music director. But there are some popular favs in there too.