To The Accompanist

God has called you to be a worship supporter. As you play the organ, piano or other instrument, you are assisting in the worship of God. You have the tools to bring hymns to life on the lips and in the hearts of the people. Your manner of playing interprets the truths of the hymn texts so that thoughts, as well as feelings, are more completely engaged.

To do your job well, you will want to know far enough in advance which hymns have been selected, in order to make careful preparation for the worship service. Prayerful analysis of each hymn (both tune and text) will enable you to play each stanza with sensitivity to its unique content. Thorough practice will insure that mistakes do not distract from the singing. Note the tune names used in Trinity Hymnal, and build a library of music so you can present the hymns in a manner thatwill encourage thoughtful participation. For organists, planning of registration will use the sounds of the organ to reflect the truths of each hymn.

Remember, you are not there simply as a musician—but to help facilitate the performance of every worshiper before God. Therefore, hymn introductions, accompaniments, harmonizations and interludes should be designed to turn the congregational hymn into a congregational anthem.