Sound Advice

Dance ministers understand the importance of having a good sound system in place. Dancing to a handheld boombox in a large congregation without amplification can be downright frustrating. As it is important to get the gospel message across, struggling to hear the words of a song can be exhausting for the observers as well. Even if a sound system is in place, the music may not played loud enough. On the other hand, there are occasions when the volume may be so loud that people have to cover their ears to prevent hearing loss. In either case, these conditions will be distracting to all involved.

In order to prevent these episodes from occurring, we should ask the necessary questions in advance so that the ministry of movement can go forth in excellence. We should know if a sound system will be in place, and find out if someone will be assigned to run the sound. A sound check can be conducted in advance to agree on an appropriate volume (we must arrive early to do this). It is also not a bad idea to invest in a portable sound system that has great volume as a back-up in case we arrive at a location and the sound is not exactly what we expected.

For the best results, our music should be clearly labeled and cued. It is a good idea for the ministry leader or delegated representative to greet the sound technician and offer thanks in advance for assisting the ministry. This is also an opportunity to discuss cues or any special directions that may be needed for successful ministry. Even if all of our preparation still results in muted music, missed signals, or the wrong song being played, we should still show grace and thanks so that the sound department and ministry of dance can work together hand-in-hand.

Exodus 32:18 (NKJV)
But he said: “It is not the noise of the shout of victory, nor the noise of the cry of defeat, but the sound of singing I hear.”

1 Chronicles 15:28 (NKJV)
Thus all Israel brought up the ark of the covenant of the LORD with shouting and with the sound of the horn, with trumpets and with cymbals, making music with stringed instruments and harps.

Psalm 89:15 (NKJV)
Blessed are the people who know the joyful sound! They walk, O LORD, in the light of Your countenance.

1 Corinthians 14:7-8 NKJV)
Even things without life, whether flute or harp, when they make a sound, unless they make a distinction in the sounds, how will it be known what is piped or played? For if the trumpet makes an uncertain sound, who will prepare for battle?