Psalm33:3

Worship Review 110508

2008-05-12T22:47:00.002+08:00

hi all,

Click on URL to access audio recording of last Sunday's worship led by William.

http://www.lkyouths.com/Purpose_Worship/Worship%20080511.mp3

Yg

Worship Review 040508

2008-05-04T23:36:00.002+08:00

Hi all,

Click on URL below to download this week's audio recording of Worship led by Augustus.

http://www.lkyouths.com/Purpose_Worship/040508%20Worship.mp3

Yg

Pride - a potential downfall

2008-05-02T10:57:00.004+08:00

Hi all!

Chanced upon an article on Worship Leader Magazine, written by Darlene Zschech. It's about PRIDE. No introduction required .... for our reflection.

Worship Leader's Definition: The desire to be more attractive or important than others.

Pride has always been one of the great problems of the human race-feeling superior, behaving in ways that are inconsiderate of the effect of those around us. Pride is described in the dictionary as "a haughty attitude shown by people who believe, often unjustifiably, that they are better than others."

As history has shown us, time and time again, pride is the one thing that will creep up on you with great subtlety but expose you very quickly when the pressure is on. In Isaiah 14, the Word says, "How you have fallen from heaven, O morning star, son of the dawn." Morning Star in Latin actually means Lucifer. The language of this Scripture starts to change as Lucifer's language is quoted again and again saying, "I will raise my throne above the stars of God.... I will make myself like the most high" (vv 13-14 NIV). Again it says I will, I will. Here is the language of pride. I, I, I. The continual emphasis on the word I, me myself and I. Thinking too highly of yourself, claiming self credit for successes, even if on the outside you appear to be most humble.. It's always good to do a little pride test....

How do you respond when others are promoted before you or above you, even if it is seemingly unfair?

How easily do you become offended?

How often do you put others needs or dreams before your own?

How do you go when it comes to fighting for your rights? Your position? Your prominence?

And thus begins the rub for worship leaders, as the Word clearly defines those who may ascend the holy hill of the Lord, "He who has clean hands and a pure heart" (Psalm 24) . Pride is not clean; it is a classic stealer of potential, as pride feeds all the wrong components needed for a healthy inner man. We were never designed to receive glory, only to give glory... That is why when people wrongly try to take it for themselves, it will eventually end up blowing them up so to speak.

Humility is the antidote... to be clothed with humility.. 1 Peter 5:5 says ... ‘That God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble'. The dictionary describes humility as the freedom from pride or arrogance, a modest estimation of ones worth.Humility is your strongest secret weapon in life.. Pride and humility, just like light and dark, have a very hard time hanging out together. James 3: 13 - 16 says, ‘Who is wise among you? Let him show it by his good life, by deeds done in humility that comes from wisdom. But, if you harbour bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. Such wisdom does not come from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, of the devil'... Pretty straight talk, but pride, which seems to show itself so slowly, and often in the form of self righteousness, has always been the downfall of the prominent, so called successful person.

I remember many years ago Ron Kenoly teaching at a seminar, stating that the only one ever to get thrown out of heaven was a worship leader... We all laughed, and then the room got very quiet as the weight of that staement took hold.

I love the heart of David as a shepherd boy... When God called him forward from the shadows, he had a ‘who me?' experience. You can tell when pride is rising up in us when God calls someone else forward, your question changes from ‘who me? To WHY YOU?.. WHY NOT ME??'... David himself actually ended getting himself into trouble much later on when SUCCESS and PROMINENCE brought about COMFORT and OPTIONS.. The two enemies of hunger.. And pride began to breed in his very human heart.

Isaiah 66:2 says.. ‘this is the one I esteem, he who is humble and contrite in spirit and trembles at my word. One of the fastest ways to confront our own hearts if they are out of line, is simply to look at your hidden life of SERVICE. Servanthood will quickly reveal your true measure of humility... especially serving and giving where NO ONE knows about it.

Richard Foster writes... ‘Nothing disciplines the inordinate desires of the flesh like service, and nothing transforms the desires of the flesh like service in hiddenness. The flesh whines against service, but kicks and screams against hidden service. It strains and pulls for honour and recognition. It will even devise subtle, religiously acceptable means to call attention to the service rendered. If we REFUSE to give in to the lust of the flesh, that is when we crucify it. Every time we crucify the flesh, we crucify our pride and arrogance..'

So lets keep it simple friends, become and maintain being a low maintenance servant.. Not needing accolades and not needing constant affirmation, just being happy to serve... It is the least we can do..When it comes to worship, it should be the most unselfish thing we ever do... For Him alone, and through Him by grace.. in other words, emptying ourselves of all we are, and offering our lives again as a living sacrifice for HIS glory.

---- end of article ----

Yg

Worship Teleseminar 2008

2008-04-27T23:44:00.003+08:00

Hi all,

No audio recordings from today's worship session ...

but I'ld like to intro everyone to an upcoming Worship Teleseminar 2008. The first such teleseminar was launched in 2007, which started humbly from the vision and needs of a volunteer worship leader in America, desiring to make worship training acessible to all. Last years seminar lasted close to 3 months and a total of 24 sessions!!! And guess what ... it's TOTALLY FREE! As long as you've an internet, you can participate and take part in the training.

Check out the website:
http://www.worshipteleseminar.com/

For more info on the background.
http://www.worshipteleseminar.com/about.html

I've benefitted immensely from these sessions last year. In these times when "worship" is increasingly becoming commercial, it's heart-warming to know that there are some who still believes that worship of our GOD should be of the Spirit & the Truth.

For it's Christ and only HIM that we worship,
Yg

Worship Review 200408

2008-04-20T22:41:00.003+08:00

Hi all!

Here's the link to this week's worship led by William:

http://www.lkyouths.com/Purpose_Worship/080420%20Worship(William).mp3

Here's an article on "What's your foundation in leading worship?". I hope you will find this article helpful in anchoring us upon the ROCK in the midst of all our busy-ness (or business?).

It's written by Tom Kraeuter.

Tom Kraeuter (pronounced Kroyter) has a heart for God and for God’s people. He is a gifted communicator who has been face-to-face with thousands of believers from all walks of the Body of Christ. People of all ages receive new insights from his straight-forward, humorous style.
One of the real hallmarks of Tom’s ministry is practical, biblical teaching that can be immediately applied to life. One pastor said it this way, “Tom has a deep and obvious love for the Lord Jesus Christ, a passion for knowing God in a deeper way, and a wonderful ability to communicate those qualities.”

"Some time ago I heard an elderly gentleman discussing how his priorities had changed over the years. As a youth he had been taught that certain things were important. Over time he had abandoned many of those values and embraced new ideals. But as he grew in years and wisdom, he found himself doing another reversal. Those things which he had left behind were once again becoming top priority. He had realized that the standards he had learned as a youngster really contained lasting value.

I have gone through much the same process in my years of leading worship. I first began leading worship mostly out of a deep, intense gratitude to the Lord. He had redeemed me! He had, as the psalmist said, "brought me up out of the pit of destruction, out of the miry clay; and He set my feet upon a rock making my footsteps firm" (Psalm 40:2). I wanted to verbalize my appreciation. Beyond saving me, He had become my friend and constant companion. To this day I still have trouble grasping that the almighty God of all creation would desire me. But I had accepted the truth of His Word and my heart was filled with unending gratitude toward God.

From the beginning of my walk with the Lord it was obvious to me and others that He had called me to leadership. Therefore, it was only natural that my gratitude would spill over onto others and I would end up leading others into this same expression of appreciation, or worship. But the expression itself was more important to me than leading others in it. I just wanted to love and honor God.

As time went on, however, I began to realize that other dynamics played into the worship leading process. My musical abilities and understanding became increasingly important. I looked at the type and style of music being used and its affect on the song service. I began to grasp how people's relationships affected their worship. Even the other musicians and their abilities came to play a more important role in my understanding of how worship "works." I began more and more to take my cues from people's reactions to the "worship" instead of from the Lord. I had almost completely abandoned the once simple gratitude based relationship I had with God. Concepts effecting worship leading had become my focus more than the Lord Himself. I was more in touch with the process than I was with God. I was not spending time with the Lord developing our relationship. In fact, the only real quality time I was spending with God was while I was leading.

At first I was able to fool most of the people while I went through the above scenario, due at least in part, to the strong gifts which God had given me. No one really knew that I was more conscious of the techniques than I was of the Lord. Still, as time went on, my drifting from God became more obvious and had the potential for getting much worse.

I had reached bottom. I was not leading worship from a heart full of worship; I was leading using techniques alone. The tools which God had provided to be effective in leading worship had become an end in themselves. The reactions of people had become more important to me than having a heart which desired to please God. I was not really leading worship. In reality I was only toying with people's emotions, including my own.

Fortunately, I once more experienced the rescuing, redeeming power of the Lord. His unending mercies touched me where I needed them most and I saw the falsehood of what I was doing. By His grace I was able to recognize that the path I was on was quite a distance from the one I should have been on. The Lord graciously brought me back into that simple grateful relationship we had before. There were no lightning bolts from heaven or earth shaking revelations, just a simple understanding of His new every morning mercies. I could once again lead worship out of a heart which radiated true worship.

In going through this process I learned some lasting principles. The most obvious was this: the only way to be effective long term as a worship leader is to maintain a close relationship with the Lord.

If I am not in constant pursuit of a close relationship with the Lord, if I am not continually allowing Him to fill this empty vessel, then I will have nothing to give. I may have some nifty tricks that will "pull me through a few services" but beyond that, I'm empty. I need to be daily renewed and refreshed by Jesus, the living water. If I forego this ongoing relationship with Him, I have really missed the fullness of His calling on my life.

Anyone aspiring to be an effective worship leader must have as their main anchor point maintaining a relationship with the object of their worship, Almighty God. Throughout this book I will discuss other ideas and concepts to help you on your path to becoming the most effective leader of worship you can be. However, maintaining your relationship with the Lord is foundational to it all. You would not expect to be a close friend of a person with whom you never spend time. Relationships take time, and lots of it, to develop. In the same way, it is essential to spend time with the Lord, just as you would spend time cultivating an earthly friendship. Nothing--absolutely nothing--is more important.

This article is excerpted from the book, Keys to Becoming an Effective Worship Leader

For its Christ ( & only HIM) we serve,
Yg

Worship Review 130408

2008-04-16T23:27:00.004+08:00

Hi all,

Click on the link below

http://www.lkyouths.com/Purpose_Worship/080413_Worship(John).mp3

hi John,

I'm encouraged @ your faithful service to our Lord even in the midst of demanding scout training. "Rock (Jesus) -On"!!

Yg

Worship Review 060408

2008-04-06T22:13:00.001+08:00

Hi all,

Click on the link below & dun forget to read the article on "100% rule" below.

http://www.lkyouths.com/Purpose_Worship/06042008-Worship%20by%20Mark%20Lim.mp3

Yg

Playing Together: The 100% Rule - By Ed Kerr

2008-03-28T14:27:00.003+08:00

Hi Everyone!

Chanced upon this article on http://www.worshipministryu.com/ . This article may help answer some of those doubts and perhaps throw a fresh perspective to playing together as a band.
Author - Ed Kerr.

Ed Kerr has been a professional songwriter and recording artist for over two decades. For 13 years he was a lead vocalist and keyboard player for Harvest, a popular contemporary Christian music band. In the past 10 years he has written more than 100 songs recorded by Integrity Music. His playing is featured on "Rock of Ages", "I Walk By Faith", and "Forever", recordings in Maranatha!Music's popular Praise Band series. Ed also is the creator of two excellent worship keyboard training DVDs, is a instructor for the Christian Musician's Summit, and serves as worship pastor for Newlife Church in Silverdale, WA.

"One helpful concept in learning to play together as a worship band is "The 100% Rule." Think of the rhythm section as a pie. If the band's final sound is 100% of the contributions of the players, then each player contributes only a portion of that total. So if there are four of us, each of us gets a quarter of the pie. If there are two of us, we split it in half.

With a song like "Lord, I Lift Your Name On High," which is so acoustic guitar oriented, the whole song could be played with just an acoustic guitar. But if you have a rhythm section, you'd need to involve the other players so that they complement what the guitarist is playing, while at the same time, they build the arrangement as it progresses throughout the song.

Now, let's say you're in a band where your guitar player doesn't have technical skill or is not comfortable carrying the song with finger-picking. In that case, the keyboard player might take a more acoustic approach. The keyboardist would imitate that finger-picking style and the guitarist could just strum the acoustic guitar.

And, since "Lord, I Lift Your Name on High" consists of basically a G chord, a C chord, and a D chord, most guitarists are going to be able to comfortably strum it. So, the keyboardist and guitarist can easily exchange roles. Just because the recording of the song started with a guitar doesn't mean that in your context you have to do it that way.

If you have more than one keyboardist, one of the keyboards might play a pad sound that sounds like a string section. The pad sound doesn't contribute any movement, but is a backdrop to what the rest of the band is doing. It fills in the sound beautifully and doesn't draw away from the other more rhythmic sounds.

The drummer may start with just a shaker or light percussion, then move on to the whole kit as the song builds in energy. And as far as the bass is concerned, because he is in his own frequency range, his part speaks clearly.

Now, obviously at some point the singers are going to join us. When the vocals come in, the players will change some of what they're playing. If the players maintain as much movement when the vocals come in, the sound might get a little too busy.

Ideally the music will be like a conversation. When the singers are making their statement, the band tries to back out of the way and accompany the vocals. When the singers finish a phrase, the band might choose to answer a little bit on their instruments with the melodic pattern.
You may at times feel like your part is not conspicuous, busy or virtuosic enough, especially if you're a classically-trained piano player. But many times what is called for is the discipline to know how little to play. I don't mean that we ought to think how little we can get away with, but rather what is going to really work.

So don't be disturbed if your individual contribution on a particular song would not sound wonderful if recorded on its own; that would only be the case if your part were 100% of the sound. What makes your part great in a band context is what it contributes to the whole, so it allows the rest of the band's contributions to be heard.

(Excerpts from the Worship Leader Workshop video and handbook) "

Lets have BIG ears & OPEN hearts as we approach the throne every Sunday,
Yg

Worship Review (020308) & New Song (Rescue the Perishing)

2008-03-02T18:29:00.004+08:00

Hi all

Here the link to download today's worship session led by Augustus.

http://www.lkyouths.com/Purpose_Worship/080302_Worship(Aug).mp3

Thanks for leading the new song "Rescue the Perishing". It's a pretty Intense (a capital "I") one. From a web-search, I realised that it was adapted from an old hymn written by Fanny Crosby, a blind American poetess, often known as the queen of gospel song writers. The original hymn was penned in 1869. This was her moving account of writting this hymn:

http://www.joyfulministry.com/rescuef.htm

Other hymns by Fannie J. Crosby include "All the Way My Saviour Leads Me" , "Blessed Assurance"

Wow! When I heard the contemporary version by Billy Foote (praise the Lord that he kept 90% of Fanny's original lyrics!), I was close to tears as I'm reminded of this Holy calling by God to all who have believed in Christ, this calling that is popularly known as the "Great Commission". Have we heard this label so too often that we've forgotten it's true significance and our responsibility?

As I'm writting this entry my eyes wander to my unsaved Mum, Sis & boyfriend who are playing with Shalom in the hall. My thoughts on my Dad who's heart has been hardened by bad experiences. "Dear God, use me to lead them to you."

From the above dated accounts, I'm also reminded how God has and continues to use Worship leaders/songs/ music as vessels to knock on "doors" of hardened hearts, to call on significant ones amongst the congregation that HE has chosen to heal & save. So, lets not take our roles as Lead Worshippers/Musicians lightly.

Here's the contemporary version that is beautifully sung by Rebecca St James. Enjoy ....
(I've included the other verse from the original hymn in "white")

Rescue the perishing, care for the dying,
Snatch them in pity from sin and the grave;
Weep o’er the erring one, lift up the fallen,
Tell them of Jesus, the mighty to save.

Chorus (refrain)
Rescue the perishing, care for the dying,
Jesus is merciful, Jesus will save.
Church open your eyes once more,
And see what Christ died for,
Jesus is merciful, Jesus will save!

Though they are slighting Him, still He is waiting,
Waiting the penitent child to receive;
Plead with them earnestly, plead with them gently;
He will forgive if they only believe.

Refrain

Down in the human heart, crushed by the tempter,
Feelings lie buried that grace can restore;
Touched by a loving heart, wakened by kindness,
Chords that were broken will vibrate once more.

Refrain

Rescue the perishing, duty demands it;
Strength for thy labor the Lord will provide;
Back to the narrow way patiently win them;
Tell the poor wand’rer a Savior has died.

Refrain

Bridge
As we playing our songs, while we singing them well
Have we forgotten the lost, the reality of hell?
If we say we love God, wanna see His will done,
Will we offer our lives, or just the songs we have sung?
Do we even care, when will we care?

My Utmost for His Highest
Yg

Worship Review (240208) + Audio Mixer Basics 102

2008-02-25T10:57:00.003+08:00

Hi!

Here's the link to yesterday's Worship recording led by Jeremiah.

http://www.lkyouths.com/Purpose_Worship/080224%20Worship(Jere).mp3

In Audio Mixer Basics 101 we touched on the following key areas:
(i) Channel: what is it?
(ii) Attaining Optimum sound mix => tgt signal output "0 db" mark
(iii) Controls: Gain/Trim, Fader, EQ (Treble/Mids/Bass)
Philosophy: "Less is actually ...More"

Here's a continuation to Audio Mixer Basics 102. Check it out!

Our Utmost for His Highest
Yg

Worship Review + Audio Mixer Basics 101

2008-02-17T22:09:00.004+08:00

Hi all,

Posting another Worship Session review. This time, it's of last week's session led by John and the Youth Band. I had intended to post this Sunday's session led by Vernon, however, the recording was truncated leaving on the Doxology portion : }.

So ... here's the link and pls comment away ....

http://www.lkyouths.com/Purpose_Worship/10th%20feb%202008%20youth%20worship.mp3

With the whole emphasis on Worship bands playing tighter, I think it'll be useful to balance with a "back to the basics" emphasis on Audio Mixer Controls. Remember ... the hours spent on practices by the worship bands will only bear fruit if the sound coming forth from the mixer is just as excellent. However ... what's considered "excellent"? As a first step, lets explore this clip ...

My Utmost for His Highest
Yg

Iron Sharpen Iron

2008-01-28T21:51:00.000+08:00

Yo Fellow Lead Worshippers!!

I'm reviving Psalm 33:3 as our vehicle for encouraging, sharpening and engaging one another as we pursue perfection not only in our service to our King but in the process, to pursue Holiness in our lives.

For a start, I've recorded last Sunday's worship session led by Mark for us to review. Here's the link:

http://www.lkyouths.com/Purpose_Worship/080127%20Worship%20(MarkLim).mp3

You may use either the tag box (which has limited letter space) or the "comments" tab @ the end of this blog entry to drop your thoughts.

My hope is that this "cyber space" will help close gaps amongst each team which will otherwise be due to the lack of interaction in the "physical space". May the unity we desire to establish be evident in each Sunday that we stand before the church.

For it's Christ we serve,
Yiguang

Links

2007-11-17T15:02:00.000+08:00

Hi, I don't know why the links didn't show... tried to use the 'link' button.

anyway, here are the copied links:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JJ6dYDRMRm4&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d0S0ep-QsNI&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-dwpdZdvCl8&feature=related

Nichole Nordeman

2007-11-17T14:44:00.000+08:00

Hi all,

just wanted to let you know about this great singer - Nichole Nordeman. She sings of God's passion for us. I had only known one of her songs 'Why', extremely beautiful and touching, and I was listening to some of her other songs on Youtube this afternoon, such as "Legacy", "Holy", "What if", etc.

Attaching some links for your reference:

Choosing a Drummer by Paul Baloche

2007-11-11T20:45:00.000+08:00

Hiya!

Here's the link to MP3 of today's Worship Session led by Wei Lim.

http://www.lkyouths.com/Purpose_Worship/worship%20111107%20weilim.mp3

Thought I'll attached Paul Baloche's take on Drummers, since the drums have become such a central piece of instrument in a Worship set.

Let's continue in our endeavour of excellence.

Our Utmost for His HIGHEST!!

Yg

A little something!

2007-10-14T21:49:00.000+08:00

Hey ya all! here's a little something that I would like to contribute. well, I'm sure we have all heard of youtube. but have you heard of www.Godtube.com. A site with contributions from Christians all over the world! Psyche! oh oh. and another website that I would encourage to check out is. www.grahamchoo.blogspot.com. it's a site created by twin brothers who plays for the Lord. just a little other contemporary stuff too but mostly Christian. haha. and the amazing thing is that they have instructional videos for those avid guitarist and those seeking to learn. and they have contributions of recent songs as well as songs usually sung in church. these are a few resources that I use. yup. (:

Unity within the Teams

2007-09-07T13:26:00.000+08:00

Yo Fellow Worshippers!

This blog entry is for the worship teams that have been faithfully serving week in and out. May our Lord be glorified & magnified not only on Sundays, but our lives as well! As we continue playing as a team, my prayer is that we will also grow closer together, united by our love for the Lord, such that we'll not look upon one another as a mere "guitarist" or " pianist", but essentially as bros and sis, as part of the body of Christ.

Here's a clip where Paul Baloche highlights certain issues that can help alleviate conflicts within teams. Have a look.

For it's Christ we serve,
Yg

Our GOD SAVES!!!

2007-08-29T11:57:00.000+08:00

Yo!

I'm on a roll ... here's another new song. It's new from Paul Baloche, titled Our God Saves! (new album!) When I first heard it, my heart was racing with great affirmation for the message that this song is communicating.

Here're the lyrics:

Verse:
In the name of the Father,
In the name of the Son,
In the name of the Spirit,

Lord we come.

We're gathered together
To lift up Your Name
To call on our Saviour
To fall on Your grace

Pre-Chorus
Hear the jouful sound of our offering
As your saints bow down
as your people sing
We will rise with You
Lifted on Your wings
And the world will see that

Chorus
Our God Saves
Our God Saves
There is hope in Your Name

Back to Verse

Chorus
Our God Saves
Our God Saves
There is hope in Your Name
Mourning turns to songs of praise
Our God Saves
Our God Saves

Isn't it true? Perhaps we've grown up being taught about God's salvation and the message has been "over-preached" but to be reminded of it's reality that OUR GOD REALLY SAVES ... wow!!! In the midst of all the chaos, meaningless fighting and killings, this is one Truth, echoed through the Old testament to the New:

"And everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved; for on Mount Zion and in Jerusalem there will be deliverance, as the LORD has said, among the survivors whom the LORD calls." Joel 2:32

Amen!!!

Here's the message behind the song:

Here's the link to listen to the song:

http://media.gospelcom.net/baloche/OurGodSaves.mp3

Here's the music sheet:

http://www.leadworship.com/resources/pdf/leadsheets/OurGodSaves_LS.pdf

Yg

Almighty God!

2007-08-28T13:48:00.001+08:00

Hi!

Would like to share a new song with you. It's written by Tim Hughes, titled Almighty God. I chanced upon it while checking New Song Cafe @ worshiptogether.com .

Here're the lyrics to the song:

Verse1
The rising Sun that fills the sky
The starry host that lights the night
Reflecting Your glory

The mountain heights, forever stand
The rain that falls to soak the land
Respond to Your glory

Chorus:
Almighty God, in every way
You are above and beyond understanding
If we did not praise, the rocks would cry out
Glorious God, high above understanding yeah

Verse2
The vast expanse of earth and sea
Held by You in harmony
Speaks of Your glory

All You’ve made, since time began
Life itself; Your perfect plan
And it’s all for Your glory

Bridge
Cre-a-tion joins as one to sing
“Glorious God.”
So far above all earthly things

I was worshipping God just from reading the words. Tim Hughes wrote this song while on a 2-month Sabbathical in Sydney. Reminded me to marvel @ God's almighty-ness. For those of us going through a period of stress and anxiety due to the examinations, be reminded that God is way way way bigger than all that this world can throw @ us. Amen?

"But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body." 2 Corinthians 4:7-10

Lets go & shine ...

Here's the link if you wanna hear Tim presenting the song. (link expires by 1st Sep)

http://www.worshiptogether.com/newsongcafe/index.aspx

Yg

Feedback for 5th Aug

2007-08-07T14:51:00.000+08:00

Hi all,

I appreciate the opportunity this blog provides to help us give constructive feedback and build up one another in the area of worship leading. Hope that everyone will log in regularly, (at least once a week).

Generally, I thought the band was excellent. It is always a treat for me when the youth band are up.

The singers were great too. Now that you have reached this competency in singing, it would be a good time to focus on singing with and off one another. That being said, the youth band is definitely ahead of the other teams in these aspects right now.

General stuff (for all)
Choice of songs
Warm up - I think some 'warm up' is needed before a slow song. Not that a fast song is always needed up front, but the congregation needs some time to prepare their hearts and minds to meet God. So whether its some fast/ fun songs, or a time of quieting and reflection before the worship, it would help against people coming in 'cold'. Or it could be a slow song sung fast, then slowed down.

Hymns
- As Mei Ming reminded, a big part of our congregation respond to hymns, so it is important to remember to include some, although I don't think there's any problem singing it in a contemporary way if the WL prefers it.

Theme
I choose my songs around a theme, a particular focus of worship. For example - Mighty God, Sacrifice, Love for God, Love of God, etc. Personally I feel it helps to communicate and emphasise those aspects of worship which I would like the church to be more aware of.

Worship 5th Aug (breaking down the elements)

2007-08-06T13:24:00.000+08:00

Hi Youth Band,

It’s a great time of ushering the congregation into the presence of God this morning. Jonathan, great to see back serving : ). Unknown to most .. hee .. hee .. I’ve asked Esther to record down the time of worship. It’s a really useful tool that allows us to replay how the time of worship went and pick out pointers to improve for the next round. Recordings don’t lie and hence, gives us an accurate depiction of what actually happened. Secondary objective is also to promote dialogue amongst all the fellow YA/Adult worship ministers (which also includes our Chief Worship Leader: Pastor!!), inviting constructive criticisms that would spur each other on “as Iron sharpens Iron ….”

Here’s the link for our download:

http://www.lkyouths.com/Purpose_Worship/youth%20worship%20070308.mp3

I’ll kick off:

Here’s the list of Songs:
Spirit Song
Open the Eyes
Over & Over
What Can I do (New song)
One Voice

I’ll just pick the Spirit Song to cover a couple of technical issues:

Here’s the arrangement (correct me if I’m wrong):

Nice intro in with the “Spirit Song” as the congregation is encouraged to “invite” the Holy Spirit to help lead them into worship of God. “O Let the Son of God enfold you…” Great build-up using layering …

Verse 1: Song intro with the Electric Guitar beginning on a delay+reverb effects (these are part of a platter of voicings found in the efx pedals), playing in appregio (broken notes of chord). This give a mysterious yet engaging background as the Worship Leader prays. Drums came in with dashes on the Ride cymbal (that’s the cymbal on the right). Keyboard provided the melody while Acoustic Guitar was strumming lightly.

Chorus: Intensity builds up with Drums fill-in @ the last bar of Verse 1. Drummers, you are the “bus driver” and the drums are a sure-fire intensity driver (fast/slow tempo, strong/soft etc). Drummer moves to 8-beat rock beat with snare on beats 2 & 4. That brings the intensity of the song up by 1 notch. "Snare" drums, as the name implies, "captures" the attention of the audience when it's played. Out of the whole drum kit, the snare drum voicings stands out Congregation is awaken to “Jesus oh Jesus, Come and fill your lamb”. There is a heighten level of “activity” amongst the instruments e.g. keyboard has more fills, acoustic strumming more etc. Vocals – only Augustus & John are singing.

Back to Verse 1: Carrying over the same intensity left off from the previous Chorus. Vocals – Xinyi came in (very nicely done!). This immediately brought a refreshing slant to Verse 1. Hence, vocalists do not need to all come in from the start, bring them in layer by layer …. .

Chorus: Intensity builds with another Drum fill-in but to bring the intensity to the next level, Vanessa used the Ride cymbal instead of the High-Hat (that’s the “ting-ting” you hear …). There are several other ways of increasing intensity through the drums (e.g. using toms & crash cymbal action ….you‘ll that in Open the Eyes) but the Ride cymbal option is a nice touch because the Spirit Song is an “invitation” song and not a “high-soaring/declarative” song like “Shout to the Lord”. Vocals are singing with more emphasis on the key words “Jesus” & “Lamb”. Electric Guitarist is strumming as well.

Verse 2: Drums fills-in to bring down the intensity. Drums on rim again. I believe this is intentional to bring the mood back to a contemplative one. All activity amongst the instruments drops a notch.

Chrous x 2: Gets quieter and quieter. Even the vocals drops off the intensity.

1. Acoustic/ Electric Guitar – Usually the acoustic (+keyboard) will provide the foundation musically (melody etc). The electric guitar must find a different position to play (other than the first position) or else the music gets muddled. Hence, both must complement what the other is playing, using the efx to add colour tastefully.

2. Keyboard – Joylynn, you provided a very firm foundation for the rest of the instruments to stand on. However, you need not always play the melody line. When you reach the chorus, use chordal forms/shapes to give the song + other instruments more room breathe. Experiment with other voicings (e.g. flute or strings)

3. Drums – Van, arrangement Nicely done!! Hw, in the other songs, keep your ears open when the Worship Leader drops the intensity of the songs. E.g. in Open the Eyes @ the bridge “Holy Holy Holy”. I sense from Auggie’s voice that the intensity has dropped when that bridge was repeated but the drums was still playing the 8-beat rock. Drummers need to study to song to know when to accent their beats e.g. important words like “O Let the Son of God enfold you … “ or “Jesus oh Jesus”. "Snare" drums, as the name implies, "captures" the attention of the audience when it's played. Out of the whole drum kit, the snare drum voicings stands out. So .. hold back it's use until you're ready to bring the song's intensity up.

4. Vocals – Need to practise the songs without the music. E.g. in the Chorus “Je-sus”, Aug/John/Xinyi, the time when you sing “-sus” is different. It may be the problem when you cannot hear one another through the monitors but it does help to sing to each other without the music so that you can get the syllabus & emphasis right. For ad-lib, i.e. when the Worship Leader/vocalists improvises and sing different words/harmonizing, the supporting vocalists must continue singing the song as it is. In this e.g. when Augustus is ad-libbing in the chorus, “Jesus oh Jesus”, make a conscious effort to tilt your mouth back from the mic a little so that your ad-lib isn’t overpowering the song because it will be a source of distraction to the congregation if it comes out too loud.

5. Sound - Yes!! You are part of the worship team!! James, I think it's a commendable effort that you've taken taking in consideration the complexity of mixing 6 instruments. Great job!! I think your commanding presence over the console does show certain level of confidence. Do not be afraid of criticisms that these will definitely come. I'm very much encouraged by your commitment to be present during the practices. Thumbs up!! Some pointers: Keep the faders within the optimum band. Do not change the EQ too much during the worship. Hence, tuning the sound during the practice is very important. There are serveral other issues which I'll walk you through the next time. Lastly, keep you eyes focussed in front even if adults come and start talking to you. : ) I know it's sometimes difficult to see God working within the console but in fact the sound man is extremely important for the worship team may be playing well but the worship will fall flat because the mixing is poor. So ... keep the keeping on!!

**Worship Team, pls include the Sound/Logistic/LCD personnels when you are huddling up for prayer for they are part of the team.**

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There's a Worship Teleseminar on-going where 20 gifted worship musicians/teachers share their thoughts/ teach important aspects of Holy Worship. Best thing ... it's FREE OF CHARGE!!! Here's the link http://www.worshipteleseminar.com/ . Register and you'll gain access to all the recorded sessions.

I would like to direct you to Session 15 by Sandy Hoffman. He gives a very step-by-step guidance to improving worship dynamics. So check it out!!

In the next blog ... I'll touch on the spiritual aspects.

Our Utmost (Excellence!) for His HIGHEST!!

Majesty

2007-07-22T14:14:00.000+08:00

Hi!!

Laid off blogging "new songs" for quite some time. Well, in this edition, I'm introducing another songs written by Martin Smith/Stu G, Delirious. It's not a new song but when John came up to me with song sheets to "Majesty", it kinda triggered this sharing.

When I first heard "Majesty", it wasn't the melody that first caught my attention but the lyrics. These are words penned down by someone who knows/relates to the great price his salvation was ransomed by God and how in response to His Majesty, we live aligning our desires to that of God.

Verse1
Here I am humbled by your Majesty
Covered by your grace so free
Here I am, knowing I'm a sinful man
Covered by the blood of the Lamb

Pre-Chorus:
Now I've found the greatest love of all is mine
Since you laid down your life
The greatest sacrifice

Chorus:
Majesty, Majesty
Your grace has found me just as I am
Empty handed, but alive in your hands
Majesty, Majesty
Forever I am changed by your love
In the presence of your Majesty

Verse 2
Here I am humbled by the love that you give
Forgiven so that I can forgive
Here I stand, knowing that I'm your desire
Sanctified by glory and fire

Pre-Chorus:
Now I've found the greatest love of all is mine
Since you laid down your life
The greatest sacrifice

Chorus

And ... for anyone who likes to play the song ....

Yg

Worship Band Workshop Part 1 & 2

2007-05-09T13:23:00.000+08:00

Hi Guyz & Gals,

Here are 2 clips from the Paul Baloche Band Workshop series which (if you remember ..) we've reviewed almost a year & a half ago, when we first started out. I wanted to post this as a reminder about the role each of us "play" in the the band.

Remember the phrase of "less is more". I'ld like to add one more "BIG EARS". Keep you ears open to hear what others are playing and how/when you should play. This goes for vocals as well (your voice is the instrument).

Remember Clement mentioned "dynamics". Do not be too busy. Allow the Holy Spirit to lead and restrain yourself from playing too much. God is our audience, not the congregation. Keep that "ego" away ....

Part 1:

Part 2:

Yg

Offering

2007-05-07T16:39:00.001+08:00

Hi Everyone!!

It's a brand new week with some of us tackling our school exams (*breathe*), others, facing new challenges @ work (like me! Several phone calls from work over the weekend! Argh!!). Take heart Bros & Sis, the Lord of the Old Testament is also the Lord of the New Testament. We've concluded the series on Old Testament just last week and I hope that we all bring home (into our hearts) a better understanding of who God is and what He is doing through Creation (You & I). We're not very much different from the Israelites then. We complain a lot, we are forgetful, ungrateful etc etc (you get the idea!). Changed lives guyz .... changed lives .... dun walk away every Sunday as if it's just another Sunday.

The Lord wants you to live a purpose-driven life. Soooo ..... We'll be embarking on a new series for WKRZ titled "CALLING". Some people define "calling" as a job/vocation but I believe that's a very narrow definition. Well, God is calling you! He has called you to salvation when you're lost, He has called you home when you ran away .... Stay tune to fine out what your calling is.

I'ld like to share a song with you. Incidentally John will be leading Worship on 20th May (*whew*whew*). This is one of the songs he's selected. It's very meaningful. Titled: Offering.

"Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God - this is your spiritual act of worship." Romans 12:1

When God calls, we can only offer ourselves.

The sun cannot compare to the glory of Your love
There is no shadow in Your Presence
No mortal man would dare to stand before Your throne
Before the Holy One of heaven
It's only by Your Blood and it's only through you mercy
Lord I come

I bring an offering of worship to my King
No one on earth deserves the praises that I sing
Jesus may You receive the honor that You're due
O Lord I bring an offering to You
I bring an offering to You

I bring an offering of worship to my King
No one on earth deserves the praises that I sing
Jesus may You receive the honor that You're due
O Lord I bring an offering to You
O Lord I bring an offering to You
O Lord I bring an offering to You
I bring an offering to You

Yg

Can only Imagine

2007-04-17T16:25:00.001+08:00

Hiya!

One day when I was surfing around for new songs, I came across a familiar tune that once gripped me when I first heard it a couple of years back. It's the song "Can Only Imagine". Do you know that there is more to "life" than the physical (visible) things that we see/feel/touch? Have you ever wondered where you'll be when "life" is done? Or what you'll do when you come face to face with Jesus? Will you dance for joy because you're now with Jesus, your Saviour? Will know down in awe because He is God?

'I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or cyring or pain, for the older order of things has passed away."' Revelation 21:2-4

Here's the lyrics to the song. Song is written by band MercyMe. Read through them and imagine with me ... "what it'll be like"

I can only imagine what it will be like, when I walk by Your side...
I can only imagine, what my eyes will see, when Your Face is before me!I can only imagine.
I can only imagine.
Surrounded by Your Glory, what will my heart feel?
Will I dance for you, Jesus? Or in awe of You, be still?
Will I stand in Your presence, or to my knees will I fall?
Will I sing 'Hallelujah!'? Will I be able to speak at all?
I can only imagine!
I can only imagine!

I can only imagine, when that day comes, when I find myself standing in the Son!
I can only imagine, when all I will do, is forever, forever worship You!
I can only imagine!
I can only imagine!

Surrounded by Your Glory, what will my heart feel?
Will I dance for you, Jesus?
Or in awe of You, be still?
Will I stand in Your presence, or to my knees will I fall?
Will I sing 'Hallelujah!'?
Will I be able to speak at all?
I can only imagine!
Yeah! I can only imagine!

Surrounded by Your Glory, what will my heart feel?
Will I dance for you, Jesus?
Or in awe of You, be still?
Will I stand in Your presence, or to my knees will I fall?
Will I sing 'Hallelujah!'?
Will I be able to speak at all?
I can only imagine!
Yeah! I can only imagine!
I can only imagine!
Yeah! I can only imagine!!
Only imagine!!!
I can only imagine.

I can only imagine, when all I do is forever, forever worship You!I can only imagine."

Yg

Made to Worship - Chris Tomlin

2007-03-09T23:57:00.000+08:00

Hiya!!

I know .. i know .. it's been over a month since my last post. *whew* Feb 07 was a really busy month with CNY and I also had a job change. So ... kinda settled down now. Thank God for His provision and grace!! He is Jehovah Jireh, our Provider! Amen!

But through the busy period, my heart was constantly beating in worship to God. Bought Chris Tomlin's latest album "See the morning". Here, I'ld like to introduce a song from that album titled "Made to Worship".

When I first heard the song, the lyrics were just so straight forward and simple. Have a go @ it!

Verse 1:
Before the day, Before the light
Before the world revolved around the sun
God on high, Stepped down into time
And wrote the story of His love for everyone

Pre-chorus:
He has filled our hearts with wonder
So that we always remember

Chorus:
You and I were made to worship
You and I are called to love
You and I are forgiven and free
You and I embrace surrender
You and I choose to believe
You and I will see who we were meant to be

Verse2:
All we are, And all we have
Is all a gift from God that we receive
Brought to life, We open up our eyes
To see the majesty and glory of the King

Pre-chorus:
He has filled our hearts with wonder
So that we always remember

Bridge:
And even the rocks cry out
And even the Heavens shout
At the sound of His holy name
So let every voice sing out
And let every knee bow down
He is worthy of all our praise

If you ever have a friend/relative that asks you what Worship if all about, I think this song really speaks the simple truth that we are (including them!) are made to worship. Remember that kid song "Life without Jesus, is like a doughnut"? Yes, it's just that. There's a God-shaped vaccuum in our hearts that can only be filled by our Creator.

Here is a clip recorded from Passion '06, an annual Praise and Worship Event in US. Check it out! I think Chris Tomlin has been gifted in writting songs that not only put forth truths simply but also songs which the church can sing along to.

Yg

Everyday - Joel Houston

2007-01-23T12:43:00.000+08:00

Howdy!!

Ever ask yourself this qn: What do I live for everyday?? As a young parent, I'll rush home everyday to see my son, Shalom, and my wife, Grace. They bring great joy to my life. Do I then live everyday for my family? Mmm ... that's a noble purpose but I believe still fall short of the ultimate purpose of my life.

"And he [Jesus] died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again." 2 Corinthians 5:15

I must be living for Jesus for I (my old self) no longer live but Christ who lives in me. In so doing, I will be able to enjoy my family knowing that my life is centered in Him and not my own.

So ... what do you live for Everyday?

Here is a song titled "Everyday" by Joel Houston. Meaningful lyrics.

Lyrics:
What to say Lord? it's You who gave me life and I
Can't explain just how much You mean to me now
That You have saved me Lord, I give all that I am to You
That everyday I can be a light that shines Your name

Everyday Lord, I'll learn to stand upon Your Word
And I pray that I, that I might come to know You more
That You would guide me in every single step I take
That everyday I can be a light unto the world

Everyday, it's You I live for
Everyday, I'll follow after You
Everyday, I'll walk with You my Lord

It's You I live for, everyday
It's You I live for, everyday
It's You I live for, everyday

It's performed by Delirious and Hillsong. Read through the lyrics before you get too carried away with the "performance". Musicians + Vocalists, check out the dynamics. For those who have never been to a Hillsong Concert ... check out the audience.

Yg

God of Wonders

2007-01-18T16:41:00.000+08:00

Hiya Everyone!!

"God of Wonders" strikes a chord close to the hearts of the Youth Band as it's the 1st song we practiced when we were formed in yr 2005! Chanced upon this clip featuring the songwriters, Mark Byrd & Steve Hindalong. Check it out!!! Our Lord is really the God of Wonders!!

Chris Tomlin/Steven Curtis Chapman - We fall down

2007-01-16T12:36:00.000+08:00

Hiya!!

Here is a song composed by Chris Tomlin (the guy who wrote "How Great is our God"), arranged by Steven Curtis Chapman. The song is "We fall down". We've sang this song in church a couple of times. It speaks of our postures when we come face to face with the King of kings.

This is a 2-guitar arrangement. Observe how each guitarist finds a "slot" to play, as compared to both playing in the same position. Song is in key of "F#". Chris is capoed on the 4th fret, playing Chord Family of D, while Steven is capoed on 2nd Fret, playing Chord Family E. Observe how the notes float over one another in harmony.

We fall down
We lay our crowns
At the feet of Jesus
The greatness ofYour Mercy and love
At the feet of Jesus
And we cry holy, holy, holy
And we cry holy, holy, holy
And we cry holy, holy, holy
Is the lamb

Hillsong United - All I need is You

2007-01-14T23:50:00.000+08:00

hi Guyz,

Remember this song we sang during the last youth retreat '06. Cried the first time I heard it. It's a reminder of God's sufficiency in all parts of my life (Family, Career, Ministry etc etc). Song is in key "E" ... gets really high @ the bridge.

Yg

So what's Psalm333.blogspot all about?

2007-01-14T21:06:00.000+08:00

Hi !

I've set up Psalm333 for the purpose of reviewing Christian Music (past & present). Ranging from Contemporary or Modern Worship Songs, to ageless Hymns. I hope to share some of my thoughts and findings on some contemporary Christian Music artistes and also to raise flags on songs/artistes with dubious (or dodgy) content/intent.

Also .. *this will interest musicians* I'll be posting clips of music videos (live clips or instructional videos) as shared on YouTube. So ... have fun worshipping the Lord. And remember ... @ the end of the day ... we have an audience of One (& that's not our pride!), our Lord.

All glory due Him!!

Yg