Don’t miss out! Register now and be part of a transformative experience that will help shape the way you sing, lead, and live out the gospel. Group discounts available (click here to find out more).

Song Leading:
In many ways, the song leader is the single most important person in leading great congregational singing. We will look at the biblical basis for having a song leader, but will aim to spend most of our time on the practicalities of how to lead singing well – including mic technique, what to say, and how to teach new material.
Helpful for singers, song leaders, pastors, service leaders.

Leading from Piano and Guitar:
Many of our churches have just these two instruments, so how do we make the most of them? And how do we lead in a dynamic, engaged, complimentary way from these instruments? In this seminar, we'll unpack both the harmonic and rhythmic elements of great congregational leading, and provide the tools for pianists and guitarists to understand each other better and play together well.
Helpful for guitarists, pianists, band leaders.

Shaping a Healthy Culture of Singing:
What makes a church sing — really sing? And how can we grow music teams that serve with joy and unity rather than burnout or performance? This seminar is for pastors and anyone leading a music team who wants to see their church family singing with heart and conviction. Together, we’ll explore how to foster genuine congregational singing and how to shape a healthy, gospel-centered culture among those who serve in music teams. We’ll unpack the different roles — from song leaders and band leaders to those overseeing the ministry as a whole — and share practical ideas for developing both your team and your church’s love for singing together.
Helpful for song leaders, music team leaders, music directors, and those aspiring to these roles!

Sound and Mixing: 
This session is for sound people and musicians – it is about training your ears and the practical implications of the church being called to hear God’s word: spoken and sung. We will consider how we play for different sized congregations, volume, balance, the critical mass of a space, how to self-mix, ambient sound, and how to foster good relationships between musicians, the tech team, and congregation. 
Helpful for music pastors, musicians, sound technicians.

Vocal Technique:
Many of us end up on stage without any formal vocal training, which can sometimes mean we fail to sing safely and strongly. This seminar put in place some foundations of safe, strong, clear singing.
Helpful for singers. 

What Songs Should We Sing?:
Choosing songs thoughtfully and intentionally is key to an effective word-based music ministry. However, there are so many songs to consider – and it can be hard to keep our focus on what is important! In this seminar we’ll think about how to create a well-rounded repertoire of songs for our church and talk through all the factors to consider when shaping this list. 
Helpful for pastors, singers, song leaders, songwriters.

Single Note Instruments:
What is the role of a melody instrument in a church band, and how do I use my classical technique to play in a contemporary context? We will explore creating colour and contrast in an arrangement; as well as fills, riffs, register, transposition and improvisation.
Helpful for melody instrumentalists, pianists, guitarists and band leaders

3. I'm a pastor or service leader - is this conference useful for me?
Yes! The ministry of the word in song flourishes when it deliberately complements the spoken word. As the leader of the congregation's praise under Jesus, we hope you'll see the responsibility and joy of overseeing the music ministry at your church. What's more, your musicians will find it a great encouragement to see you supporting their ministry.

4. I've been doing music for many years. Will I learn anything new?
Most definitely. Many people come to Word In Song simply for the refreshment, encouragement and fellowship with those doing similar ministry.

5. We are a small church with few resources - will this day be relevant?
Yes! We love helping smaller churches work out how to effectively use their resources to lead singing. There will be lots of opportunities for applying biblical and practical principles to every context.

6. Do I need to bring food?
No! Refreshments and lunch are all provided as part of the ticket price.

Cancellations

Delegate cancellations will incur a $10 administration fee. Sorry, no refunds will be given for cancellations within one week of the event. In the event that we need to cancel or postpone the conference, Emu Music will provide a full refund.

Communications

By registering you are agreeing to receive communication about this event from Emu Music. We will email you before and after the event in order to keep you informed and gather feedback.