+Jedidiah Duckett I have an opportunity to play drums for my church and it is a win win situation, to serve and develop the talent God has given. I am nervous too, but I will take that nervous energy and practice and pray for help, it will be awesome. God bless.
i love it when worship leaders speak and encourage the congregation before set. At my church nothing is said but songs just commence. The worship leader in this vid is passionate and fully engaged to communicate his passion. fantastic stuff
Im so blessed by you steph. I thought you're just an ordinary drummer,but you use your talent to glorify our God. Keep it up. Godbless. I'm also a church drummer here in the philippines.
I find it weird how people have no problem acting like crazies in a secular concert, but when it comes to worship our God they want to feel more dead than alive. Screw being quiet. I'll play with all my passion since I'm playing for my God that saved me. Who cares if people don't want to worship. I'll worship my God with all my strength...
make sure is for God and not for your own spotlight, that is all. if you are going crazy on drums and over playing and is taking away from the congreagation to worship then you need to reflect on your playing that is all.
My issue is the constant use of 'absolute' terms: the way it 'should' sound... 'don't' play lead fills (here or there)... Why is it not acceptable for instrumentalists to ebb and flow? Why is in the moment improvisation not encouraged? Why can't the act of worship include melodies/cadences/riffs that aren't part of an expected, predictable script?? Don't get me wrong, I'm not suggesting that fusion as a technique is appropriate in all musical spaces (one has to consider the objective of the use of a particular musical discipline) however, within that objective, I feel like my expression of worship as an instrumentalist is being bridled under the auspice of what has been regarded as acceptable musical behavior conducive to worship. The clips included are great. The music sounds rehearsed (which is great) but except for the guitarist in the intro, the music sounds overly predictable to me...it takes no risks..the musicians are playing skillfully, but they are not speaking prophetically on the instruments in my opinion...what do you think??
I enlisted the help of our percussinist to hit hard and heavy on 2 & 4 whenever the congregation chooses 1 & 3. Even Carl migrates. once they all have it, she can blend back in. They usually get there by the end of the next chorus.
I, as a worship team drummer, once had a woman congregant who took the liberty of bringing a tambourine with her to church. Now THAT was “ Carl” confusing US as a team!
My tip would be to keep it simple. Make it easy for people to clap along. Some people in the congregation don't sing, but they love to clap. Don't get all Keith Moon and show off your chops. Be more like Bun E Carlos or Ringo - solid and steady. 2nd tip is to be sensitive to the elderly people who do sit in the front. You want them to enjoy the worship.
Well, you're right. The real reason why we play is to worship God, everything is for him, you're right, it's not about the musician. But we have to do it excellent for Him, it means we also need to improve our skills. In my church we play different kinds of genres, we love to do it as well as we can, we are not experts, but we try to be better every time and we give the glory to God. it's amazing to see the church dancing and singing to the Lord, we connect each other to worship God
Amen brother, 100% agree! Always let The Holy Spirit be your guide, its never wrong as we know. Calm reflective worship is always helpful to the fellowship, and i always stay with the worship leader to keep time, and keep the heart of worship moving in God's grace and time. Thanks again bro, and every continued blessing!
I've been playing drums in my small Lutheran church for 7 years (since 6th grade). My ego always gets the best of me. Thank you for this video. I'm going to try harder to fit the music and lead the congregation rather than show off the latest John Bonham-esque triplet fill I've been working on.
The drummer owns the tempo. If the singer falls out of time its because the drummer didn't own his part. The important part to remember is everybody can make mistakes.
I grew up playing punk/metal at home, but worship with my family in church. I started playing with them in church at the age of 10. Growing up playing worship along with other genres has really helped me as a drummer. I'm 18 now, and still learning and always looking for tips (Hence my interest in this video). Great tips and great playing. Would love to attend your church once!
Incredible! I have come to the same understanding about Church playing. I had to simplify some of the more innovative 'displaced beat' grooves in favour of a more straightforward approach in some cases. And I get more compliments from people because I'm not too loud for them. It doesn't mean you have to play without passion. I have seen Steve Jordan lay down a 2 and 4 beat with such a deep pocket that it blew me away. That is how I get inspired to keep it simple. Also I let the drums breath by not filling every cavity with a lick. When you come in from a 2 count of space it is very dramatic. Thanks for the tips. Great to know other drummers experience the same challenges as I did coming into Church drumming after 35 years in the club scene.
Your church drumming tips are right on! Its exactly what I have learned in my 30+ years of church drumming. Nice to know someone as talented as you has a similar philosophy on church drumming.
Hey man, fellow worship drummer here. I really enjoyed watching the worship session and really loved being a part of it from my desk. I loved the part where the guitarist is reading Psalm 24. A few things I want to just comment on. 1. Not enough people grasp the concept of "It's not about you". There are many videos out there teaching how to play drums at church and all the emphasis is on the technical, not the spiritual. It's praise to Him and the facilitation of worship for those coming in and wanted to sing to Him. Thank you for continually putting that out there (and on the Drumeo video too). 2. I loved the flow of worship. The transitions from the opening to the reading to the songs with the music in the background. Very well done. 3. The kit has a strong but not overpowering sound. Very well-balanced for the setting. I play behind plexi-panels and we have plans to build a little room like the one you have here so I'm keeping this one in mind for inspiration. 4. How are you comfortable playing without a bass? Do the other musicians provide some sort of low end? Our bassist had to move a long way out from church and only comes for service on Sundays so I suffer through practice without him or any low end sound and feel. We play with click and a backing track so our music director adds a bass to the track but it's not exactly the same. 5. What IEMs are you using? I'm upgrading from a two-driver (I'm spoiling myself but hey! I'd rather put my money into things like this than wasting it elsewhere) 6. The lead girl in the second song has an awesome tone and good power. 7. May God use you how He sees fit and that you may continue to be a blessing to others. - Jeremy
1. Couldn't agree more 2. The musicians at my church are stellar so it makes this type of flow very easy. Not all churches I've been a part of can pull that off. 3. Put a fan in there if they completely close you off. Because humans need air... 4. He's just not in the video...to the far left of my HH in the corner. 5. I use Alclair In Ears. If you want to email me at stephen@stephensdrumshed.com I can refer you directly to my rep. He handles all of my students and does a killer job getting you exactly what you need for a great price. 6. Amy is ridiculous. So talented. 7. You as well Jeremy...thank you
Thank you Steven for blessing us with the songs of worship at the end. Jesus said “I am the Way, the Truth and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through Me”
Good tips given. I been drumming church band 11yrs now, I totally agree with you. Wish there was a love button, great video! thank for sharing and using you gift for God:).
Well explained and putting into practice with the example song! You also said something I sadly never hear drummers and other instrumentalist for that matter say while talking about playing in their churches Praise and Worship bands. “It’s NOT ABOUT YOU, it’s about Christ and using our talents that he blessed us with to sing His praises” we aren’t up there to gain glory and recognition for our playing, but instead to be part of an organic machine praising and worshipping the creator of our universe, the one who shed blood to cover us because God can not look directly at sin. Oh the glorious wonders of his name!! I’m glad I ran across this video while drinking my coffee because it has me excited and ready to enter His presence with thanksgiving in our hearts and into his courts with praise Amen!! I’m blessed to be part of a very humble and talented band at the church I attend. Everyone works well and feeds off each other and are open minded to suggestions so we can be that group that leads all those hearts into worship. God has given us a massive responsibility and entrusted us with peoples souls. They know when it’s sincere and if it’s not they will spot it from a mile away! Thank You again for this video and God Bless you on this beautiful day of rest to praise and worship him!!
Such a misunderstood topic as I've found playing with many "professional" musicians in a church setting. Really appreciate you sharing your work, faith and skills.
I've been a worship drummer for about 15 years and I very much agree with what you've said here! I was moved to laughter and tears. This is a great piece of work and hits spot on!
Im a Drummer, Tuba Player. I Am looking to Major in Music in College. Once Im Graduated, Get a Job at a school and teach and get PAID. But....If im EVER, EVER gonna play for God, I will never accept money. Of course if i make a CD or something i would expect revenue but At a Church or Concert, Never. All Glory to God, If i ever recieve anything, I will donate at the offering and 10%s
Gerson Oronia If you think you will sell CDs you need to look at the calendar It says 2016, apparently CD's died 10 years ago, and your god died centuries ago.
Thanks for this encouraging video Stephen. I'm in the UK and I've just started playing drums in my church. Totally agree with everything you've said here. God can use even my small amount of skills at present to help me and others praise Him and bring glory to Him. I've subscribed to your channel and look forward to developing my drumming over time by watching some of your videos. God bless!
No word of a lie; years ago I saw a guy playing in a church with an orange perspex Ludwig kit, double bass drum, with 4 toms, two floor toms and about 7 cymbals. He was accompanying a guy on acoustic guitar and a keyboardist. It went pretty much exactly as you imagine it went...
Ha I got a PDP maple set for my church 7 piece set and bout 3 splashes 2 chinas and a Sabain o-zero and 4 crashes with rack. Cause u can't get a bunch of different sounds with only 2 toms and some sand cymbals lol.
Dude what an awesome way of teaching these tips and then not only adding adding examples but adding the worship service as well. I've always focused on being humble while playing. Sometimes the passion takes over and I get a little carried away if I'm honest. Have to remind myself I'm a worshiper first and a drummer 2nd...I see the worshiper in you bro as well. Keep it up the great work man!
Thank GOD and Stephen Taylor I enjoy playing guitars but means best understand this My passion is drums and I'm only starting taking lessions but I'm taking it a in.I love aying drums I have five drum beats down and three of I can keep timing with metro one My Boss drum machine and aying along with some worship songs on internet.Thank You Stephen for being My Drum teacher You great at it.to.
Thank you for this video. It really is not about us, it is about serving others and serving God. I love to rock for the most part but when I am playing in church I look and listen to play what is appropriate for the music and God is doing. A good drummer will adjust his/her playing to the situation they are in and blend in with what is going on in the music. Sometimes the worship leader gives me a chance to shine with a cool fill, but for the most part I try to stay solid for the band and those attending church that day. Again thanks for the cool video.
I am a drummer from Africa, and we play a very different style of music, but i think these tips would still apply... though the type of music would probably allow for more complicated fills to be applied without disturbing the 'Carls' too much...:D so thanx really helpful...
Great groove on the opening song. Wow your guitar player is a beast! I bet you guys have had some fun in rehearsal. Been playing drums in church for over a decade now. Your tip on helping with time when we aren't officially in on a song with a shaker or hats is spot on. We use in-ears, a click track via Ableton Live, and the group still benefits from a nice pulsing beat on the hats when I'm out on a down verse, or quiet intro etc. Great video. Thanks
Very good advice. Great job. I have been a rudimental drummer for 50 years and many drummers do not understand their place in a worship service. Keep up the great work!
Thank YOU! I've been learning as much as I can to help my son who has decided to go into Music Ministry. Me, I work on Cello's and the like. So when he asked for drums. guitars, 5 string bass ect. to do this, well it's been a steep learning curve to find good information. We will be linking to your information. Thanks again and keep up the good work.
Ive been saying alot of these things to drummers who play in church. The way you explain it in this video is spot on. great video & amazing worship. i watched the whole thing. Love the way the cymbals sound, theyre very shimmery. God bless you man.
Great tips Stephen! May God keep blessing you in your ministry and in your RUclips channel. Thanks for being a blessing to the rest of us who seek to become better musicians.
You are a very good drummer and I’ve played drums in a small church with only piano, bass guitar and drums. Listening to this music here is very good but to me it’s a little bit overpowering not much but just a little. I’m 70 years old now, I’ve been playing drums off and on since I was 16 . A lot of years in my working career I didn’t play but recently started back since 2017 . I played with a gospel group with my brother on bass guitar for about 3 years. They sorta disbanded and now I am playing with some old classmates who have been playing in a group who play to track music with 3 very good vocalist and a lead guitar and vocalist himself. We are the ( COMEBACK KIDS) 60’s and 70’s rock and roll and some country. I really enjoy it. God bless you and keep on keeping on . Louis Spike’s , Georgetown , La.
Watched this before I went to drum at church this morning. Great reminder of what we do and it really is going to affect how I play this morning. Thanks for and awesome vid
earned a sub. + like! our Pastor in church wanted me to play the drums next year. currently taking formal drum lessons. Then give back to God for the talent that he gave me. Peace everyone!
Thanks so much for this Video, you absolutely have my full respect as a musician and a worshipping drummer, I myself am the campus drummer at my church, Amen to everything you hit on, I definitely fall guilty on this encouraging word! God bless you sir, and thanks so much for sharing this worship service, it absolutely ministered to my Spirit man!
Cool cool cool. Glad to see others teaching these same principles. I watch as much Steve Goold as I can when it comes to church drumming. Add this one to the list.
I love your tips, they apply to every type musician that plays in a church setting. Especially the first tip. Its a group thing, its not about the individuals leading, its about the group
One thing I've learned in 8 years of playing worship as a drummer, "less is more". That said, you killed it brother!!! What a gift He has blessed you with. Love everything you did. Like that booth, pa sound only. Inspired me to enclose ours.
Steven - I've always enjoyed your vids on RUclips and your sense of humor. I've been playing in church since 87 and find there is some interesting Contemporary Christian music out there. I'd hate to think drums have no part in worship as some would say, despite Psalms 149 and 150, among others. Off topic: I've always wondered if there will be drums/percussion in Heaven as there will be no time to measure......
Brother, where have you been all these years??? Your videos have answered almost every question I have had for drumming that no one else has been able to answer. I feel like you're in the drumming room in my head!
This is a fantastic video. I can relate immensely. Drumming in church for 7 years has made me a better drummer/musician, and more self aware of what I contribute behind the kit.
From playing guitar in worship teams for 14 years, these were so hilarious to hear! haha. You hit it all right on the head. Great advice. Thanks very much. God bless
Really good help. Thanks a lot. I feel like there needs to be more useful content like this for all the volunteer drummers in churches around the world, because most of the time the drumming role just falls on our laps. Could you provide some covers for those slow church songs and hymns that need that soft grace touch drumming. Appreciate it. Blessing 🙌
Great video- thanks for sharing! It was a blessing to get a glimpse of the worship service at another church. Also got some good ideas for This is Amazing Grace, which we are playing this Sunday! Thanks!
Really love this vid Stephen! Subscribed to you for a long time now and this is the video I love most. Thank you for sharing your thoughts! :D Awesome knowing you're drumming for Him too :)
Thanks Stephen! I'm new to the drums.. been playing keyboard for years. Our drummer moved on and left us with no one to keep the beat. I've been looking at your lessons on the internet and they have helped me immensely (believe me, I'm still amateur). Along the way, I saw something in your spirit that seem to make me wonder if you were a brother in Christ. Finding this video encourages me a great deal! I will continue to use your videos to improve and help me become better drummer but more than that a partner in leading worship!
Awesome your a brother in Christ!! My son is a worship guitarist for our church's youth band. He is actually practicing in the garage right now for Sunday as week speak. We just went to Bethel Worship Concert a few months ago and man it was awesome. I checked out your channel because I was looking up drum heads and I saw "helicopter fill" so i couldn't resist, I had seen your channel a while back but didn't stick around for some reason but I will sub because I like what you were talking about here and your a brother in Christ! God bless
Michael Troxler yeah that's the sad thing. I went to a church that had hired guns(found out later after we left) and when I look back i realize it wasn't anointed it was just music with Christian lyrics.
More COWBELL!!! Seriously, thanks for this post. I was asked to play drums at church and passed for a couple of years. Finally, the WL and I sat down and discussed the "what if's" and when I felt "they" would be okay IF what I was able to do DIDN'T worked for the bigger picture I jumped in and played. What I mean is at best I can keep time. I don't consider myself a very good drummer when compared to those that really are or those that are blessed, called, and have worked at practicing. I'm much better at air drums... because I own that truth my feelings were in check and are seldom, if ever hurt. Once we figured out that everyone could be mature and not get hurt feelings IF things didn't gel well, I jumped in and for about 4 years and I was BLESSED, and I believe many others were as well. Though many times what the WL heard in his head/heart/soul was something I was not able to play, to his credit, he put up with my inabilities. There also were times I wanted to play what I felt was perfect for the part and to my credit I went along with his leading... so things worked well. For anyone reading this keep in mind playing on a worship TEAM has the wonderful opportunity to super bless, BUT it can can be a place where things can go horribly wrong and satan can have a field day. With immaturity, egos, difficult days, etc. rampant in some musicians may I say this... stay focused on the LORD and when it "starts" to get stupid, if the Worship Team/players can't be mature about working out problems, my advice is, bail out graciously as quickly as possible BEFORE it Spinal Taps out... I will also add this... in my ignorance, I was somewhat surprised at what hoops were jumped through in work not to "offend" weaker brothers and sister of the faith. Several times I shook my head thinking, "Are you kidding me, we really have to _________ because someone "may" _________?" Yes, you have to be that sensitive!!! Again, Stephen THANK YOU for this post. I always wondered if you were a Christian by how you handled yourself here on RUclips. Your testimony finds you GUILTY of reflecting Jesus WELL!!! Thanks brother...
I never remember the fills I do every Sunday. It's like they just fall in my head instantly from God. I learn to play drum on my own when I was little. People talk to me how did you make that fill and beat. I honestly just tell them, they just fall in my head from above.
Same here! I don’t even know most time signatures , etc. When I’m told a song is played in “3”, I ask , “ like this?” ( demonstrate). I just listen to a song, make a few notes regarding dynamics, etc. and listen a bunch more! Basically memorize the song by ear. Worked for twenty years!
Tip #4: If you mess up, don't swear ;)
HOOKSnKISSES omG, for real... I've been a church drummer for a couple of years and it has happened to me a couple of times.
Nooooo that happened to me and i did it right into the mic during a quiet part and it was soooo embarrassing 😅
See the bad thing is i've done that at worship practice!😬 Thank goodness i was in a drum cage like stephen.😅
lol I’m a drummer at church and the band is terrible! Anytime I do a fill they get lost😅
@@levileavelle2446 Yall must work together! God bless
Been drumming for 12 years, but I'm really nervous getting into drumming for worship, but this definitely helped. God bless, brother.
+Jedidiah Duckett Do it bro! It's excellent practice for playing live.
+Jedidiah Duckett I have an opportunity to play drums for my church and it is a win win situation, to serve and develop the talent God has given. I am nervous too, but I will take that nervous energy and practice and pray for help, it will be awesome. God bless.
The Holy Spirit will lead you 🙏
Same here
Only in the US can drummers get excited about playing in church… to a UK drummer, it seems really bizarre..!
Nothing like a full worship team ! Love and Praise God 💕
i love it when worship leaders speak and encourage the congregation before set.
At my church nothing is said but songs just commence.
The worship leader in this vid is passionate and fully engaged to communicate his passion. fantastic stuff
Maybe there should be a video on overplaying the guitar in church? That dude killed it!
lol the 5 minute solo at the very beginning XD
That strat is beautiful.
First it looked like it was overplaying but man that solo was beautiful, so why not sometimes.
Loved the guitar solo... twas great.
HA!!!
Perfect opening, "It's not about you and it's a group event." More church musicians need to heed this advice, instrumentalists and vocalists alike.
Im so blessed by you steph. I thought you're just an ordinary drummer,but you use your talent to glorify our God. Keep it up. Godbless. I'm also a church drummer here in the philippines.
Carl kills it!
I find it weird how people have no problem acting like crazies in a secular concert, but when it comes to worship our God they want to feel more dead than alive. Screw being quiet. I'll play with all my passion since I'm playing for my God that saved me. Who cares if people don't want to worship. I'll worship my God with all my strength...
lol ikr??? thing is, there needs to be more focus on the words sadly.. alas, being a church musician teaches you how to chill
make sure is for God and not for your own spotlight, that is all. if you are going crazy on drums and over playing and is taking away from the congreagation to worship then you need to reflect on your playing that is all.
My issue is the constant use of 'absolute' terms: the way it 'should' sound... 'don't' play lead fills (here or there)...
Why is it not acceptable for instrumentalists to ebb and flow? Why is in the moment improvisation not encouraged? Why can't the act of worship include melodies/cadences/riffs that aren't part of an expected, predictable script?? Don't get me wrong, I'm not suggesting that fusion as a technique is appropriate in all musical spaces (one has to consider the objective of the use of a particular musical discipline) however, within that objective, I feel like my expression of worship as an instrumentalist is being bridled under the auspice of what has been regarded as acceptable musical behavior conducive to worship. The clips included are great. The music sounds rehearsed (which is great) but except for the guitarist in the intro, the music sounds overly predictable to me...it takes no risks..the musicians are playing skillfully, but they are not speaking prophetically on the instruments in my opinion...what do you think??
I agree 100%.
That Carl, he's always throwing people off with his clapping XD Gotta love him though. So good with transmissions.
"Carl doesn't know that he is supposed to clap on 2 and 4! He claps on 1 and 3!" hahaha
as a matter of fact, carl clap with 18/19 tempo
Lmao, I had a guitarist that was like that... He got better tho thank god
"Our job is not to confuse the Carls"😂
I enlisted the help of our percussinist to hit hard and heavy on 2 & 4 whenever the congregation chooses 1 & 3. Even Carl migrates. once they all have it, she can blend back in. They usually get there by the end of the next chorus.
Carl must be British 😅
"Our job is not to confuse the Carl's"
What is the meaning of Carl's?
Jeramie Pacoma people who clap on 1 and 3
Jeramie Pacoma I'm not one of them, by the way
I, as a worship team drummer, once had a woman congregant who took the liberty of bringing a tambourine with her to church. Now THAT was “ Carl” confusing US as a team!
right, Lol
This Is Amazing Grace is definitely one of my favorite worship songs! Really good tips for church drumming. it's all about discipline!
My tip would be to keep it simple. Make it easy for people to clap along. Some people in the congregation don't sing, but they love to clap. Don't get all Keith Moon and show off your chops. Be more like Bun E Carlos or Ringo - solid and steady. 2nd tip is to be sensitive to the elderly people who do sit in the front. You want them to enjoy the worship.
I know this is a drum channel....but that was the greatest church guitar solo i've ever heard in my life!!!!
Well, you're right. The real reason why we play is to worship God, everything is for him, you're right, it's not about the musician. But we have to do it excellent for Him, it means we also need to improve our skills. In my church we play different kinds of genres, we love to do it as well as we can, we are not experts, but we try to be better every time and we give the glory to God. it's amazing to see the church dancing and singing to the Lord, we connect each other to worship God
Amen brother, 100% agree! Always let The Holy Spirit be your guide, its never wrong as we know. Calm reflective worship is always helpful to the fellowship, and i always stay with the worship leader to keep time, and keep the heart of worship moving in God's grace and time.
Thanks again bro, and every continued blessing!
I've been playing drums in my small Lutheran church for 7 years (since 6th grade). My ego always gets the best of me. Thank you for this video. I'm going to try harder to fit the music and lead the congregation rather than show off the latest John Bonham-esque triplet fill I've been working on.
When singers get out of tempo even when they have the metronome on is unforgivable LOL
Happens often Ken you have to deal with it and it's our job to bring them back in.
The drummer owns the tempo. If the singer falls out of time its because the drummer didn't own his part. The important part to remember is everybody can make mistakes.
@@danielkalk6323 if there is a click and the singer gets off, that is NOT the fault of the drummer. That is the singer not being able to count lol
I grew up playing punk/metal at home, but worship with my family in church. I started playing with them in church at the age of 10. Growing up playing worship along with other genres has really helped me as a drummer. I'm 18 now, and still learning and always looking for tips (Hence my interest in this video). Great tips and great playing. Would love to attend your church once!
Incredible! I have come to the same understanding about Church playing. I had to simplify some of the more innovative 'displaced beat' grooves in favour of a more straightforward approach in some cases. And I get more compliments from people because I'm not too loud for them. It doesn't mean you have to play without passion. I have seen Steve Jordan lay down a 2 and 4 beat with such a deep pocket that it blew me away. That is how I get inspired to keep it simple. Also I let the drums breath by not filling every cavity with a lick. When you come in from a 2 count of space it is very dramatic. Thanks for the tips. Great to know other drummers experience the same challenges as I did coming into Church drumming after 35 years in the club scene.
Your church drumming tips are right on! Its exactly what I have learned in my 30+ years of church drumming. Nice to know someone as talented as you has a similar philosophy on church drumming.
Hey man, fellow worship drummer here. I really enjoyed watching the worship session and really loved being a part of it from my desk. I loved the part where the guitarist is reading Psalm 24. A few things I want to just comment on.
1. Not enough people grasp the concept of "It's not about you". There are many videos out there teaching how to play drums at church and all the emphasis is on the technical, not the spiritual. It's praise to Him and the facilitation of worship for those coming in and wanted to sing to Him. Thank you for continually putting that out there (and on the Drumeo video too).
2. I loved the flow of worship. The transitions from the opening to the reading to the songs with the music in the background. Very well done.
3. The kit has a strong but not overpowering sound. Very well-balanced for the setting. I play behind plexi-panels and we have plans to build a little room like the one you have here so I'm keeping this one in mind for inspiration.
4. How are you comfortable playing without a bass? Do the other musicians provide some sort of low end? Our bassist had to move a long way out from church and only comes for service on Sundays so I suffer through practice without him or any low end sound and feel. We play with click and a backing track so our music director adds a bass to the track but it's not exactly the same.
5. What IEMs are you using? I'm upgrading from a two-driver (I'm spoiling myself but hey! I'd rather put my money into things like this than wasting it elsewhere)
6. The lead girl in the second song has an awesome tone and good power.
7. May God use you how He sees fit and that you may continue to be a blessing to others.
- Jeremy
1. Couldn't agree more
2. The musicians at my church are stellar so it makes this type of flow very easy. Not all churches I've been a part of can pull that off.
3. Put a fan in there if they completely close you off. Because humans need air...
4. He's just not in the video...to the far left of my HH in the corner.
5. I use Alclair In Ears. If you want to email me at stephen@stephensdrumshed.com I can refer you directly to my rep. He handles all of my students and does a killer job getting you exactly what you need for a great price.
6. Amy is ridiculous. So talented.
7. You as well Jeremy...thank you
Thank you Steven for blessing us with the songs of worship at the end. Jesus said “I am the Way, the Truth and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through Me”
Amen!
Great worship I can feel the team working to keep the flow of each other in harmony the beat is steady.
I’m 15 and have been drumming in worship since I was 11 thanks for the tips man really helpful
Good tips given. I been drumming church band 11yrs now, I totally agree with you. Wish there was a love button, great video! thank for sharing and using you gift for God:).
Well explained and putting into practice with the example song! You also said something I sadly never hear drummers and other instrumentalist for that matter say while talking about playing in their churches Praise and Worship bands. “It’s NOT ABOUT YOU, it’s about Christ and using our talents that he blessed us with to sing His praises” we aren’t up there to gain glory and recognition for our playing, but instead to be part of an organic machine praising and worshipping the creator of our universe, the one who shed blood to cover us because God can not look directly at sin. Oh the glorious wonders of his name!! I’m glad I ran across this video while drinking my coffee because it has me excited and ready to enter His presence with thanksgiving in our hearts and into his courts with praise Amen!! I’m blessed to be part of a very humble and talented band at the church I attend. Everyone works well and feeds off each other and are open minded to suggestions so we can be that group that leads all those hearts into worship. God has given us a massive responsibility and entrusted us with peoples souls. They know when it’s sincere and if it’s not they will spot it from a mile away! Thank You again for this video and God Bless you on this beautiful day of rest to praise and worship him!!
Such a misunderstood topic as I've found playing with many "professional" musicians in a church setting. Really appreciate you sharing your work, faith and skills.
I've been a worship drummer for about 15 years and I very much agree with what you've said here! I was moved to laughter and tears. This is a great piece of work and hits spot on!
Amen brother!!! Its a great thing to Make Joyful noise to him!! :D
Im a Drummer, Tuba Player.
I Am looking to Major in Music in College. Once Im Graduated, Get a Job at a school and teach and get PAID. But....If im EVER, EVER gonna play for God, I will never accept money.
Of course if i make a CD or something i would expect revenue but At a Church or Concert, Never.
All Glory to God, If i ever recieve anything, I will donate at the offering and 10%s
Gerson Oronia well said and spot on!
There's nothing wrong with working in a church, but if that's not what you want to do, that's ok too.
Gerson Oronia If you think you will sell CDs you need to look at the calendar
It says 2016, apparently CD's died 10 years ago, and your god died centuries ago.
sounds more like your faith died months ago lol
Spam Spam Still alive
Heck yeah man.. This post is right on the pointe! Just had church! Awesome. Amen, brother! Amen.
I love seeing instrumentalists playing, it's pretty amazing. I appreciate it so much.
Thanks for this encouraging video Stephen. I'm in the UK and I've just started playing drums in my church. Totally agree with everything you've said here. God can use even my small amount of skills at present to help me and others praise Him and bring glory to Him. I've subscribed to your channel and look forward to developing my drumming over time by watching some of your videos. God bless!
You bet Ben...glad to have you hangin around!
No word of a lie; years ago I saw a guy playing in a church with an orange perspex Ludwig kit, double bass drum, with 4 toms, two floor toms and about 7 cymbals. He was accompanying a guy on acoustic guitar and a keyboardist. It went pretty much exactly as you imagine it went...
Are you sure you weren't at a dream theater concert? That's a bit much.
Next time, do us all a favor. Video tape that would you. Because that is just epic lol
Ha I got a PDP maple set for my church 7 piece set and bout 3 splashes 2 chinas and a Sabain o-zero and 4 crashes with rack. Cause u can't get a bunch of different sounds with only 2 toms and some sand cymbals lol.
Tyrone Pitts Dream Theater is a worship band.... Right? :D
Awesomely?
Good stuff... Church drumming is a different animal for sure.
I play an electrical set at church and I agree with all your tips. Generally simple and dynamic is best.
Hey Meg...thanks so much for serving your local church. Does my heart good to know it
Dude what an awesome way of teaching these tips and then not only adding adding examples but adding the worship service as well. I've always focused on being humble while playing. Sometimes the passion takes over and I get a little carried away if I'm honest. Have to remind myself I'm a worshiper first and a drummer 2nd...I see the worshiper in you bro as well. Keep it up the great work man!
Thanks Robert!
loved that preface at the beginning of the video. so true!
but kinda hard to keep in mind when you want to play hard and fun
Love these songs. Holy Spirit is one of the best for learning the "Church jungle beat"
Thank GOD and Stephen Taylor I enjoy playing guitars but means best understand this My passion is drums and I'm only starting taking lessions but I'm taking it a in.I love aying drums I have five drum beats down and three of I can keep timing with metro one My Boss drum machine and aying along with some worship songs on internet.Thank You Stephen for being My Drum teacher You great at it.to.
Thank you for this video. It really is not about us, it is about serving others and serving God. I love to rock for the most part but when I am playing in church I look and listen to play what is appropriate for the music and God is doing. A good drummer will adjust his/her playing to the situation they are in and blend in with what is going on in the music. Sometimes the worship leader gives me a chance to shine with a cool fill, but for the most part I try to stay solid for the band and those attending church that day. Again thanks for the cool video.
I am a drummer from Africa, and we play a very different style of music, but i think these tips would still apply... though the type of music would probably allow for more complicated fills to be applied without disturbing the 'Carls' too much...:D so thanx really helpful...
Great groove on the opening song. Wow your guitar player is a beast! I bet you guys have had some fun in rehearsal. Been playing drums in church for over a decade now. Your tip on helping with time when we aren't officially in on a song with a shaker or hats is spot on. We use in-ears, a click track via Ableton Live, and the group still benefits from a nice pulsing beat on the hats when I'm out on a down verse, or quiet intro etc. Great video. Thanks
+Paul Price Glad you dug it Paul!
Very good advice. Great job. I have been a rudimental drummer for 50 years and many drummers do not understand their place in a worship service. Keep up the great work!
Yours playing in thr church is full of feel n im so touch! The sound quality is amazing+ keep drumming brother in Christ😃
Stephen, these tips are SO HELPFUL. Also, I think it's awesome that you play in church and use your talent for the Lord! God bless!
So glad they helped Wyatt!
Awesome video bro
Thoroughly enjoyed it.I ended up watching the whole thing. Great tios.
Loved it man. Praise God brother
Came here for some drumming tips, left with some drumming tips + some top shelf worship... Score.
Glad to hear it Andrew!
I too am a Church Drummer. I do try to keep it upbeat but under control. Totally agree with all points! Nice job too!!!
Fellow drummer here. I love how straight forward you are. Thanks and God Bless. Keep rocking the flock, bro!
Thanks Sean!
Ah man I love that first song I've been wanting to play it for a long time and you killed it bro. And your guitar player too.
Thank YOU! I've been learning as much as I can to help my son who has decided to go into Music Ministry. Me, I work on Cello's and the like. So when he asked for drums. guitars, 5 string bass ect. to do this, well it's been a steep learning curve to find good information. We will be linking to your information. Thanks again and keep up the good work.
+Tery Wood Sr. So glad it helped Tery! Best of luck to your son!
-Stephen T.
Ive been saying alot of these things to drummers who play in church. The way you explain it in this video is spot on. great video & amazing worship. i watched the whole thing. Love the way the cymbals sound, theyre very shimmery. God bless you man.
Great tips Stephen! May God keep blessing you in your ministry and in your RUclips channel. Thanks for being a blessing to the rest of us who seek to become better musicians.
You are a very good drummer and I’ve played drums in a small church with only piano, bass guitar and drums. Listening to this music here is very good but to me it’s a little bit overpowering not much but just a little. I’m 70 years old now, I’ve been playing drums off and on since I was 16 . A lot of years in my working career I didn’t play but recently started back since 2017 . I played with a gospel group with my brother on bass guitar for about 3 years. They sorta disbanded and now I am playing with some old classmates who have been playing in a group who play to track music with 3 very good vocalist and a lead guitar and vocalist himself. We are the ( COMEBACK KIDS) 60’s and 70’s rock and roll and some country. I really enjoy it. God bless you and keep on keeping on . Louis Spike’s , Georgetown , La.
Totally agree with all the tips you gave! I've played in church for years and learned all these things the hard way XD
I loved how you guys started that worship set from instrumental to spoken word/prayer then into the set it was awesome!
thanks for your video.. my daughter is 14 and we will be doing a song together tomorrow for church...me on piano and singing, her on drums.
Glad to see you are a fellow Christian. This was great and needed. I am passing this along. God Bless and Thank You
So awesome to see/hear you playing worship Stephen. Love it, thank you so much. Where can I see more of you playing in Church?
The Lord just visited me on those songs you played. God bless you and the brothers on this video.
Great atmosphere!
Watched this before I went to drum at church this morning. Great reminder of what we do and it really is going to affect how I play this morning. Thanks for and awesome vid
earned a sub. + like! our Pastor in church wanted me to play the drums next year. currently taking formal drum lessons. Then give back to God for the talent that he gave me. Peace everyone!
Thanks so much for this Video, you absolutely have my full respect as a musician and a worshipping drummer, I myself am the campus drummer at my church, Amen to everything you hit on, I definitely fall guilty on this encouraging word! God bless you sir, and thanks so much for sharing this worship service, it absolutely ministered to my Spirit man!
Thanks so much Jason...so glad it hit you where you needed. And thank YOU for putting the time in to serve at your church.
I did not know u played in church! Cool! u r really good ! Thanx for the tips
Yo, tell Skid Row on the electric guitar to settle down! LOL Great video, and great lessons for a newbie church drummer. You rock!
Cool cool cool. Glad to see others teaching these same principles. I watch as much Steve Goold as I can when it comes to church drumming. Add this one to the list.
I love your tips, they apply to every type musician that plays in a church setting. Especially the first tip. Its a group thing, its not about the individuals leading, its about the group
Steven Murphy check out my video :) god bless I'm always looking for subscribers and viewers and comments
One thing I've learned in 8 years of playing worship as a drummer, "less is more". That said, you killed it brother!!! What a gift He has blessed you with. Love everything you did. Like that booth, pa sound only. Inspired me to enclose ours.
Thanks so much Eric!
Great video. Well said. Play to the song. Play to the venue- whatever it is.
And thank you for not playing that messed up Tom groove in the second verse of This is Amazing Grace! I’ve never heard it work in a church setting.
Steven - I've always enjoyed your vids on RUclips and your sense of humor. I've been playing in church since 87 and find there is some interesting Contemporary Christian music out there. I'd hate to think drums have no part in worship as some would say, despite Psalms 149 and 150, among others.
Off topic: I've always wondered if there will be drums/percussion in Heaven as there will be no time to measure......
+coltsfeva We'll be able to play 13/8 and everyone will understand it :D
Respect Brother,you are a down to earth guy,WITH GOD GIVEN TALENT. Greetings from South Africa.
Brother, where have you been all these years??? Your videos have answered almost every question I have had for drumming that no one else has been able to answer. I feel like you're in the drumming room in my head!
I was wondering if you noticed the cot I was sleeping on in your drumming room...lol, so glad you're finding what you need.
This is a fantastic video. I can relate immensely. Drumming in church for 7 years has made me a better drummer/musician, and more self aware of what I contribute behind the kit.
Nice set up, and the band was rocking. I don't have the Plexiglas so I have to play with Hot Rods. Just got done listening great job.
"clapping on 1 and 3" ...so true
may God bless you my brother
This is really good! Thank you!
I learned alot from you Sir Stephen God Bless you more🥁🙏🙏🙏😇
From playing guitar in worship teams for 14 years, these were so hilarious to hear! haha. You hit it all right on the head. Great advice. Thanks very much. God bless
Thanks for this video Stephen, let praise ring out for the Creator of all creativity.....and, bring the RAWK!
Really good help. Thanks a lot. I feel like there needs to be more useful content like this for all the volunteer drummers in churches around the world, because most of the time the drumming role just falls on our laps.
Could you provide some covers for those slow church songs and hymns that need that soft grace touch drumming.
Appreciate it.
Blessing 🙌
You are so blessed sir. I am culturing my skills with your help, so I will be able to play drums for Jesus..
God bless!
Great video... Been playing since 10 years old...now I'm 43 this video is spot on!!!!!!! I APPROVE THE MESSAGE 👍
Thanks!
Great video- thanks for sharing! It was a blessing to get a glimpse of the worship service at another church. Also got some good ideas for This is Amazing Grace, which we are playing this Sunday! Thanks!
Love this church video man....I played this morning at my church.
Awesome Stephen! thanks! I really love your work! keep on and thanks to choose teach to others!
This is a very talented & gifted worship band & vocalists. Very strong & powerful.
Nice band, I can sense the kind of atmosphere the music creates. Awesome!
thanx Stephen uv conferred some of the approaches i use every Sunday & Wednesday...you also play some of same worshipop tunes...thanx...>
just bumped into this post. Thanks Bro! Blessings to you!
Really love this vid Stephen! Subscribed to you for a long time now and this is the video I love most. Thank you for sharing your thoughts! :D Awesome knowing you're drumming for Him too :)
Thanks Stephen! I'm new to the drums.. been playing keyboard for years. Our drummer moved on and left us with no one to keep the beat. I've been looking at your lessons on the internet and they have helped me immensely (believe me, I'm still amateur).
Along the way, I saw something in your spirit that seem to make me wonder if you were a brother in Christ. Finding this video encourages me a great deal! I will continue to use your videos to improve and help me become better drummer but more than that a partner in leading worship!
So glad the lessons have been helping!
This is really awesome,I'm really glad you shared this with us! Stay blessed
-SG
just found this video,good tips Sir,and good play too,the snare sound so good to me haha,God bless you
Awesome your a brother in Christ!! My son is a worship guitarist for our church's youth band. He is actually practicing in the garage right now for Sunday as week speak. We just went to Bethel Worship Concert a few months ago and man it was awesome. I checked out your channel because I was looking up drum heads and I saw "helicopter fill" so i couldn't resist, I had seen your channel a while back but didn't stick around for some reason but I will sub because I like what you were talking about here and your a brother in Christ! God bless
Just because someone sings or plays in a church that doesn't mean they're saved, that just means that they're singing and playing in a church.
Michael Troxler yeah that's the sad thing. I went to a church that had hired guns(found out later after we left) and when I look back i realize it wasn't anointed it was just music with Christian lyrics.
By far the best church drumming teacher... I wanna be a church drummer wish me luck!
More COWBELL!!! Seriously, thanks for this post. I was asked to play drums at church and passed for a couple of years. Finally, the WL and I sat down and discussed the "what if's" and when I felt "they" would be okay IF what I was able to do DIDN'T worked for the bigger picture I jumped in and played.
What I mean is at best I can keep time. I don't consider myself a very good drummer when compared to those that really are or those that are blessed, called, and have worked at practicing. I'm much better at air drums... because I own that truth my feelings were in check and are seldom, if ever hurt.
Once we figured out that everyone could be mature and not get hurt feelings IF things didn't gel well, I jumped in and for about 4 years and I was BLESSED, and I believe many others were as well.
Though many times what the WL heard in his head/heart/soul was something I was not able to play, to his credit, he put up with my inabilities. There also were times I wanted to play what I felt was perfect for the part and to my credit I went along with his leading... so things worked well.
For anyone reading this keep in mind playing on a worship TEAM has the wonderful opportunity to super bless, BUT it can can be a place where things can go horribly wrong and satan can have a field day. With immaturity, egos, difficult days, etc. rampant in some musicians may I say this... stay focused on the LORD and when it "starts" to get stupid, if the Worship Team/players can't be mature about working out problems, my advice is, bail out graciously as quickly as possible BEFORE it Spinal Taps out...
I will also add this... in my ignorance, I was somewhat surprised at what hoops were jumped through in work not to "offend" weaker brothers and sister of the faith. Several times I shook my head thinking, "Are you kidding me, we really have to _________ because someone "may" _________?" Yes, you have to be that sensitive!!!
Again, Stephen THANK YOU for this post. I always wondered if you were a Christian by how you handled yourself here on RUclips. Your testimony finds you GUILTY of reflecting Jesus WELL!!! Thanks brother...
I never remember the fills I do every Sunday. It's like they just fall in my head instantly from God. I learn to play drum on my own when I was little. People talk to me how did you make that fill and beat. I honestly just tell them, they just fall in my head from above.
Same here! I don’t even know most time signatures , etc. When I’m told a song is played in “3”, I ask , “ like this?” ( demonstrate).
I just listen to a song, make a few notes regarding dynamics, etc. and listen a bunch more! Basically memorize the song by ear. Worked for twenty years!