Bass
Bassists do more than play the correct note; they also carry the backbone and groove of the song along with the drums. Bass is both felt and heard, so it is equally a rhythmic and melodic instrument. Great bass playing is a combination of low notes, high note, appropriate grooves (which often match the kick drum pattern), and tasteful licks which provide variety without distracting.
We’re Looking For:
- Knowledge of the Fretboard – the ability to easily play low notes and high notes in any key
- Groove – Playing the right note at the right time is paramount with bass, and “playing in the pocket” with drums establishes the groove.
- Tone – Playing with a pick is okay, if the attack isn’t too harsh; however, playing with fingers often fits worship music better
- Stage Presence – comfortability on stage with the ability to help engage people in worship, without being a distraction
Electric
Electric guitarists often carry the “signature lick” of a song as well as the feel of a song. Some songs have “driving” electrics for an “edgy sound,” while other songs use electric guitars to provide an ambient pad to fill up a lot of tonal space. While tone is important (and something we can help you with if needed), it is also very important to be able to identify electric parts within a song by ear and play them back accurately. Playing electric requires prep time to learn each part.
We’re Looking For:
- Matching the Song – playing the part by ear and not over-playing (if there are multiple electric parts, just pick one and learn it)
- Dynamics – ability to provide the correct tone that fits with the song (or flexibility for us to help with it)
- Stage Presence – As a musician, you still help to lead worship. Even something as simple as looking up and out helps engage people.
