For a normal service, I normally have my set-lists planned in advance. If a song is suggested for future service, I’ll look at the song and use it only if I feel it fits.

If the pastor makes a request - then that is something else entirely. I do the song!

That said, I do pay close attention to what people seem to be moved by. I think that’s smart leading.

Thanks, everyone, for your input! I appreciate it more than you know!

Other old hymns are just waiting for someone — maybe you — to write an adaptation of them. Like “Wonderful Cross,” these songs often take on a life of their own with a change in chording or the addition of a bridge or a new tune altogether. It’s often worth the extra five seconds to try to think of some element of a song that could survive your weekly selection process, even if it’s just a single chorus or reading of a verse. (Check out the chorus sometime of “Living for Jesus;” the verses don’t work anymore but the chorus fits many kinds of worship sets; the verses are horizontal but the chorus is vertical. Cut and paste.)

I used to have a horrible time getting my pinky to do much, but a shift in hand position really helped. I was trying to play pieces with trills and pull offs with the pinky finger. It was near impossible until a teacher showed me this hand position.

Hope it helps.. and best of luck with your playing.

God Bless,
Jean

Why do I do it that way? Pretty much for the reasons you stated above. Either the song is just not singable, doesn’t fit what we’re doing, is theologically erroneous, or some other reason. I don’t want to hurt somebody’s feelings by telling them what’s “wrong” with their song.

Admittedly, I’ve been backed into a corner a few times and when I am, I’m then completely honest and transparent with them why their song didn’t make the cut. At that point, it may make them mad, but if they’re going to confront me directly with the issue I won’t hold back just to stroke somebody’s ego.

I made somebody mad once when they requested “Gimme that Old Time Religion,” and I said I would never sing it, even on a Wednesday night where we mainly do that style of stuff. When asked why, I said “because our faith is about relationship not religion. That song is promoting a false doctrine, especially the ‘it will take us all to heaven’ line.” We talked about it some more, and they finally came to see if (mostly) my way, and they continue to request other songs.

I might ask the person what they like about the song or where they heard it to try to spark a story. I like to use the opportunities of song requests to make a connection with people and hear a little bit about who that person is.