So Now You’re Running Sound
Your music director has asked you to run sound for the praise team. What do you do next?
The sound tech has one of the most important positions in the church team, and it is my experience that only a very few churches are able to hire a professional.
They usually place a guy into the sound tech’s position for a couple different reasons.
One, he says he can do it because he has been playing in bands for years.
Two, he is a computer expert and is experienced on electronic equipment.
While the people in these two groups are well meaning, they do not have the skills or training needed to be a successful sound tech. That being said with the correct training and use of proper principles they will be up and running in no time.
Too often behind the board is a guy or gal just turning knobs, not knowing exactly what it is they are doing
Imagine an office worker showing up to work and all they could do was turn the computer on and play games. The same goes here, it is important in whatever endeavor you are trying to pursue, that you do some research and know what you are doing.
Have A Plan
Before you start, you need to have a plan in place. I have migrated to and from several churches as a Music Director and as a Praise Team Member. It often takes me weeks, if not months to wrap my head around the equipment I inherited and the method of wiring and implementation.
If there is ever a time to hire a professional to look-over your PA system… start today. I usually go to the nearest music store and request a visit to my church. Most will review it at no cost. Before your expert arrives, document all your equipment, and ALL the wiring before the assessment. Let a pro look everything over.
They do this because they know a free assessment will usually result in future sales. Get the results in writing and keep them in a binder. Once this is done you will have a better understanding of what you have and where to begin.
Check Back Often
Remember this is just a starting point.
Come back and read the Audio 101 section often as we will be posting tips, interviews and reviews on a weekly basis. Don’t hesitate to ask us a question.
