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Chord Request => Piano/Organ Chords => Topic started by: MinAJ on November 01, 2006, 03:27:13 PM

Title: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: MinAJ on November 01, 2006, 03:27:13 PM
Is there anyone playing at thier home church and not getting paid?  I'm not and I'm happy.  I'm trying to help build my dad's ministry but I've recieved a lot of criticism from people I thought were genuine.  What's gospel music come to?
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: ferrente on November 01, 2006, 07:17:47 PM
Welcome to LGM  MinAJ 
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: rjthakid on November 02, 2006, 09:29:06 AM
Is there anyone playing at thier home church and not getting paid?  I'm not and I'm happy.  I'm trying to help build my dad's ministry but I've recieved a lot of criticism from people I thought were genuine.  What's gospel music come to?

I see nothing wrong with being a paid musician, but there are people who think that all musicians SHOULD be paid.  I am not a paid musician.  I feel that Worshipping the Lord with my instrument is not something I MUST be paid to do.  Either way, with or without pay, I'm satisfied.
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: MinAJ on November 02, 2006, 03:27:42 PM
Thanks ferrente.  Thank you to rjthakid.  I do believe a flurishing ministry that can should take care of the musicians.  I charge for weddings.  Some, not all, for funerals depending on the relationship.  It's good to know that the true worshipers look for the spiritual blessing more than anything.  I wouldn't trade that for all the money in the world.
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: ferrente on November 08, 2006, 04:25:12 PM
Well Said!
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: COGIC4EVA on November 14, 2006, 10:07:50 AM
Im a musician that was getting paid and was so unhappy where i was.  Now i get paid every blue moon but my spiritual life is growing which is important.  God is so tired of musicians just being satisfied with "going through the motions living any knid of life."  everybody understands that money is a neccesity but i agree you cannot allow it to effect your spiritual life.
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: Prophetic Remnant on November 25, 2006, 01:16:59 AM
Nothing is wrong with getting paid as long as it doesn't change your playing from worship to just a job.
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: hammondboy on November 27, 2006, 10:43:59 PM
IF U ARE A HIRED MUSICIAN THE BIBLE STATS THAT I MAN IS WORTHY OF HIS HIRE.
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: MinAJ on November 28, 2006, 04:49:43 PM
IF U ARE A HIRED MUSICIAN THE BIBLE STATS THAT I MAN IS WORTHY OF HIS HIRE.

Was this scripture refering to musicians or something else? 
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: hammondboy on November 29, 2006, 02:47:23 AM
Was this scripture refering to musicians or something else? 

MUSICIANS, PREACHERS, ETC....
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: karlisa on December 07, 2006, 02:42:44 PM
If you are in a financial position to give of your self for free then more power to you.  I have been ministering in music for over twenty years and have always received a salary even at my home church.  Every church should want to pay there musician.  I don’t think I would play for free anywhere because it is my belief that people, not the Lord will use you.  I don’t want to be used.  I don’t care if it is only $50.00 per week.  The y should want to pay you for your talents.  If you have a family that has needs, I don’t think it would be wise for you to take from your family and give it to others.  They should pay you nothing less than every other week.   
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: MinAJ on December 07, 2006, 06:50:42 PM
If you are in a financial position to give of your self for free then more power to you.  I have been ministering in music for over twenty years and have always received a salary even at my home church.  Every church should want to pay there musician.  I don’t think I would play for free anywhere because it is my belief that people, not the Lord will use you.  I don’t want to be used.  I don’t care if it is only $50.00 per week.  The y should want to pay you for your talents.  If you have a family that has needs, I don’t think it would be wise for you to take from your family and give it to others.  They should pay you nothing less than every other week.   
Thanks and for your input karlisa and welcome!
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: biznizman on December 26, 2006, 03:51:16 PM
I was playing for a church for nothing and the pastor decided that he wanted to give a small love token for me playing.  Then when I moved back home, my dad decided he wanted to give me a salary for playing.  He believes that the lead musician should be the second highest paid person in the church, behind the preacher.  I mean if you really think about it, the organ player is the person who has to be there at the beginning of the service, has to be available throughout the entire service, is expected to be at every rehearsal, every service, and anything else needing music.  If you're the only person in the church who plays the organ, who else is going to take your place when you're not there?  There are multiple directors, usually more than one preacher, the choir sings only two to four songs, sometimes more than one drummer.  Is there anyone else in the church who is expected to participate from beginning to end of the service?  I know we hope everyone would participate but there is only one person who is EXPECTED to participate.

I wouldn't say that being paid be a requesite for your playing in the service, but I would say if it's offered, don't turn it down. 
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: according2g on January 03, 2007, 03:11:26 PM
In one's home church, one can certainly donate one's talents and time towards the ministry and that is admirable.  I play for a church, however, that is not my home church.  To me, a different scenario.  If you expect a person who is not a member of your congregation to come and accept a position as an organist or MOM, you are expecting them to be there for rehearsals, at all your services, when the choir goes out on Sundays and during the week....basically, unless their home church has services that are not at the same time as your own, you are expecting them to devote their entire "church time" to aiding in your music ministry.  Why would I not be paid?

"A workman is worthy of his hire" refers to preachers, musicians, etc....as in the Levites of the OT who were devoted to ministry within the church.

It is often said that musicians go for the highest dollar.  Since I have accepted a position outside of my home church as an organist, I have seen a different light and "the other side".  There are those who (on the other end) try to get out of paying musicians what they are worth.  Case in point:  Upon accepting a position as an organist, I voluntarily gave the church back $100 per week.  It is 3 years later, and after two or three raises I have still not been raised back to the original salary.  When I ask for a raise, I am usually promised one thing....and then an excuse is given as to why the amount agreed upon wasn't met (after the fact).

Bottom line...there are 2 sides to this equation.  If you are playing at a church ESPECIALLY that is NOT your home church, you deserve to be paid for your time, gas, etc....
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: PianoWizard on January 03, 2007, 05:42:00 PM
Welcome to the LGM family "according2g".....Be Blessed.

PianoWiz...
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: hammondboy on January 03, 2007, 11:39:00 PM
In one's home church, one can certainly donate one's talents and time towards the ministry and that is admirable.  I play for a church, however, that is not my home church.  To me, a different scenario.  If you expect a person who is not a member of your congregation to come and accept a position as an organist or MOM, you are expecting them to be there for rehearsals, at all your services, when the choir goes out on Sundays and during the week....basically, unless their home church has services that are not at the same time as your own, you are expecting them to devote their entire "church time" to aiding in your music ministry.  Why would I not be paid?

"A workman is worthy of his hire" refers to preachers, musicians, etc....as in the Levites of the OT who were devoted to ministry within the church.

It is often said that musicians go for the highest dollar.  Since I have accepted a position outside of my home church as an organist, I have seen a different light and "the other side".  There are those who (on the other end) try to get out of paying musicians what they are worth.  Case in point:  Upon accepting a position as an organist, I voluntarily gave the church back $100 per week.  It is 3 years later, and after two or three raises I have still not been raised back to the original salary.  When I ask for a raise, I am usually promised one thing....and then an excuse is given as to why the amount agreed upon wasn't met (after the fact).

Bottom line...there are 2 sides to this equation.  If you are playing at a church ESPECIALLY that is NOT your home church, you deserve to be paid for your time, gas, etc....
I argee and we as musicians should be careful because people would try to pimp our gift
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: MinAJ on January 04, 2007, 03:56:53 PM
I argee and we as musicians should be careful because people would try to pimp our gift
That is a very good thought provoking statement.  Being "pimped".  That makes me wonder.  Not about my home church, but about knowing who's who.  Pimp or not?
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: Prophetic Remnant on January 05, 2007, 12:45:47 AM
Not about my home church, but about knowing who's who.  Pimp or not?

I like that.  ;)
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: chrissssssss on May 09, 2007, 01:00:11 PM
This is a re-occuring topic
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: momuzik on May 09, 2007, 01:41:48 PM
A lot is invested in being a church musician, e.g. being available for most services, rehearsals and revivals (including travelling) as well as the time spent at home learning and practicing songs. Don't forget the money spent on musical training, musical instruments, stands, stools, memory cards, carrying cases, amps, cables, music media, your expertise and so on. It's only right and fitting that musicians get compensated for their efforts.
For me, I don't get paid; not because I don't want to, but because the church just doesn't have the funds yet (I know because I help count it). So I just keep in mind that what I do, I do wholeheartely as unto the Lord.
But, if I'm offered, I will glady accept it in Jesus' Name!
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: MinAJ on May 10, 2007, 08:48:04 PM
I would to. 
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: blessedhands80 on May 15, 2007, 09:18:38 AM
Our gives us "love offerings" once in a while...but i play only for God's Glory...
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: MinAJ on May 15, 2007, 06:56:10 PM
I posted this thread kinda when I first started on LGM.  I know it may be a reoccuring topic, but in my experience there just seems to be a different attitude with the musicians who don't get paid vs. those who do.  I'm not hating on musicians who get paid because most of my friends that are muscians do.  To me there just seems to be an humbleness that I usually don't see with those who get paid.  Just my opinion. ;)
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: henrythrower on May 18, 2007, 02:09:52 PM
I started out at my church not getting paid and it was fine.  To tell you the truth, I didn't know that there were any musicians that got paid.  Then they started paying me.  No lies, I like the money, but I would still do it for free.

When I go to other churches that do not have a musician, I jump on the piano or organ without a thought to get paid or not.  It is something that I love to do and it is my worship.  Sometimes they pay, sometimes they do not and I never ask.

That being said, I think that that is the proper attitude to always have.  However, if the musician is so good and so in demand that he has to make a choice to do his/her music or hold down a job, I think that the churches calling him/her should pay them.
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: MinAJ on May 19, 2007, 10:28:33 PM
Welcome to LGM henrythrower!  If you don't mind me asking, where were you raised that you never heard of musicians being paid?  You sound alot like me exept I knew musicians got paid.  I just new there was no way in there world where I belonged that I was going to ever get paid.  That's just the way it was there.
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: adaria on May 19, 2007, 10:53:29 PM
 
God gave me this gift. I use it to glorify Him as an act of charity (love).   
I prefer not to take any money from any church I play in.
Also, I have other means of financial support.
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: henrythrower on May 25, 2007, 09:37:02 AM
Welcome to LGM henrythrower!  If you don't mind me asking, where were you raised that you never heard of musicians being paid?  You sound alot like me exept I knew musicians got paid.  I just new there was no way in there world where I belonged that I was going to ever get paid.  That's just the way it was there.

I am from the Pittsburgh area, but I went to my family's church until I was 18 when I went to colliege and began playing for the college's choir.  From there, I went to my current church, Superior Emmanuel C.O.G.I.C.  I guess, nobody really offered me any money until I was the musician for a good 9 years at my current church.  I didn't have any real connections at that time with other musicians, so I just never thought about it.
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: bug on July 11, 2007, 11:55:37 AM
Welcome to the real world young man.  Church people are just people.  You will just have to deal with their personalities.

Play, study and learn. You will benefit from the experience.  Sometimes experience is better than money.

brother scott
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: TerryRH on July 12, 2007, 12:00:18 AM
I started out at my church not getting paid and it was fine.  To tell you the truth, I didn't know that there were any musicians that got paid.  Then they started paying me.  No lies, I like the money, but I would still do it for free.

When I go to other churches that do not have a musician, I jump on the piano or organ without a thought to get paid or not.  It is something that I love to do and it is my worship.  Sometimes they pay, sometimes they do not and I never ask.

That being said, I think that that is the proper attitude to always have.  However, if the musician is so good and so in demand that he has to make a choice to do his/her music or hold down a job, I think that the churches calling him/her should pay them.

I agree 100%. When they pay me at the church I play at, especially the first time, it caught me off guard. I play because I love to play...not to get paid. That being said, I appreciate the fact that they show me their appreciation for me playing for them.
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: luvdahammond on October 27, 2007, 04:17:09 AM
Gettin paid to play.... This is not a hard question nor is it easy becasue some folks look at this subject in so many ways. If you are a musician in your church, and your expected to be at all services, rehersals, teach music, teach voices, learn new songs, work with the prasie team, choir etc.
Yes I strongly believe that you need to be on salary, !!!"IF"!!!  ( I know I just lost half of the congregation right there ha!ha!) Only if you are a tithe and offering payer! Its only right, for you to plant a seed back into the house that continues to bless you!! If not then you are prostituting the annointing that God has put on your life!
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: PianoWizard on October 27, 2007, 06:23:46 PM
Welcome to the LGM family "luvdahammond".....Be Blessed.

PianoWiz...
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: musallio on November 11, 2007, 08:58:12 AM
I like Adaria's attitude& Henrythrower nailed it home with his comment.
At my home church, we have a player who is just like U, except that he is still not being paid.
However, our leaders decided 2 get a professional player who gets paid.
He has built our choir from shatters & now they can compete with some of the best in the region, are stable & they're doing it 4 God's Glory..

The players have had their ups& downs (diff tastes & ideas of how they should play etc), but they make up. It is awesome when they play 2geda...but sometimes 1 finds that it is the paid player who comes while the unpaid 1 goes to play in ada crusades/ churches, where he will be paid!!

If I was to play, twouldnt so much to be paid, I just play as a fill in bcos I love 2 play.
If i ws invited & taken out my way, if I didnt have 2 use my fuel, I wouldnt accept the money bcos I would feel weird.
If I incurred expenses 2 get there/ I was using my board, a few months back I wouldnt take the $, but now I would bcos I'm no longer naive, ppl can take advantage of your equipment, but when it's maintanance/ U hv 2 buy a new 1, Ur on your own ::) :(

Whatever you do, so long as U can stand boldly b4 God, then it's good.
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: pianoplaya_08 on December 14, 2007, 07:29:46 PM
i get paid, but i dnt make a big deal b/c its not about me, the bible does say tho that the workman is worthy of his hire...so i jus say b fair and god bless cuz u better blieve the pastor is getting paid 4 his/her MISNISTRY.... so jus watever GOD COMMANDS u 2 do is best
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: PianoWizard on December 15, 2007, 07:02:40 PM
Welcome to the LGM family "pianoplaya_08"....Be Blessed.

PianoWiz...
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: musallio on December 17, 2007, 07:07:10 AM
Welcome to the LGM family "pianoplaya_08"....Be Blessed.

...
njoy the gr8 company here!!
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: TySpeaks on January 10, 2008, 09:36:29 AM
I 've been playing for eight years. My home church doesn't pay, ever. If a person gives of his time to learn the music well and has to carry equipment then I feels they should be compensated. And yes, if they are in high demand then they should be payed all the more. For certain events such as funerals,I won't accept pay. But for weddings, banquets, and weekday services, compensation would be nice. I NEVER ask, I always wait to be offered.
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: momuzik on January 10, 2008, 12:03:49 PM
IMO, there should at least be an attempt to bless the MOM simply because it's in line with the Word of God - I Tim. 6:17 Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine. 18For the scripture saith, thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward. Even though MOM's are not all elders, I think they fall in this category as laborers and ministers through music.
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: mthomas on January 10, 2008, 12:38:12 PM
I know this is a late response to this post. I just became a member to this site. I appreciate the attitude you have towards your caling to be a musician. Biblically the levites and priests were all compensated (in the form of their food and lodging) for rendoring service unto the Lord in the temple. The thing is if a church is not able to compensate their musician then that's one thing. However, if they are and choose not to I believe that is a sin before God. Will it cause them to go to hell, no but it will delay or even stop the blessing of God from flowing in the ministries. I believe this is a big reason why singers and musicians leave church and play in the world becuase some times the church is not adequately taking care of it's own. Me personally right now I can get paid at other ministries anywhere from 600-2000 USD per month to play but i chosse to stay at my home church because it is where I got saved, empowered by the Holy Spirit and called to ministry. I am here becuase I love to be and there is no other place as of this time where my soul can get fed. So the bottom line stay committed to God and use the gift He has blessed you with to bless others and when He is ready financially you will have to turn down offers because to many will be coming in.
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: Big T. on January 31, 2008, 09:35:03 AM
I am a paid musician, or shall I say a professional musician. I believe that it is not out of order for musicians to be paid. You would not tell Commonwealth Edison the Lord is the one who gave us electricity, so I don't feel that I should pay my bill. You would be sitting in the dark trying to read your bible by candle light. ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: organman88 on February 02, 2008, 10:24:18 AM
First off playing and intrument is a talent but your girt from god is ministering through your gift thats what people don't understand. Im a paid musician and honestly if i played for free i wouldn't be as commited for the simple fact there is nothing you gain from it and plus being a musician in and out of church is a job because of all the time throughout the week you put in to it, i know many people are probably thinking i just go for the money and i dont. If i dont get paid sometimes i dont play cuz people WILLtake advantage of you and u can still worship god without music. For example most churches hire musicians to enhance the service not really to bring people to god through music and if the musician enhances the pastor and the church is satisfied, so what does the musician get out of it if he/she isn't paid the answer is not the filling of the holy spirit and the word cuz everybody gets that and everybody can get it without a organist in the church but the answer in money. Many unpaid musicians and church members don't understand that (no disrespect lol) but what im saying is people flip the script to make it wrong for musicians to get paid!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: praisingGodthroughmusic on February 02, 2008, 11:03:28 AM
I get paid for my services and even if I didn't get paid I would still play because I glorify God with this gift no matter the situation so pay me or not I'll still play it wouldn't bother me one way or the other,bit it is a lot of work put in to be a musician buying material for the choir and putting a good practice week,playing for different services,so on and on...but nonetheless I still enjoy what I do at all times. Be Blessed!
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: seemunny on May 04, 2008, 05:03:33 AM
Real quick....gas, food, clothes, and shelter cost the same for church musicians as it does for anybody else. The world ain't giving gospel musicians all this good stuff for free. 8)
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: Steelpulz on May 04, 2008, 08:52:40 AM
I was playing for a church for nothing and the pastor decided that he wanted to give a small love token for me playing.  Then when I moved back home, my dad decided he wanted to give me a salary for playing.  He believes that the lead musician should be the second highest paid person in the church, behind the preacher.  I mean if you really think about it, the organ player is the person who has to be there at the beginning of the service, has to be available throughout the entire service, is expected to be at every rehearsal, every service, and anything else needing music.  If you're the only person in the church who plays the organ, who else is going to take your place when you're not there?  There are multiple directors, usually more than one preacher, the choir sings only two to four songs, sometimes more than one drummer.  Is there anyone else in the church who is expected to participate from beginning to end of the service?  I know we hope everyone would participate but there is only one person who is EXPECTED to participate.

I wouldn't say that being paid be a requesite for your playing in the service, but I would say if it's offered, don't turn it down. 
HelloBiznizman, I am a bassist and the churches I play for have the same expectations of me.
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: krow on May 22, 2008, 02:30:07 PM
I get paid $50 a week to play at my church, but nothing for rehearsals, 2 per week, or for special church outings and there a lot of them., or for evening services and all the in between stuff.  I also work a full time job and am the assitant pastor.   I give the $50 back to the church as a tithe.  I don't mind, but I will say this-most folks, including Pastors don't often appreciate the presence of a faithful minister of music who has a vested interest in the ministry and has chosen to stay no matter what.  It amazes me how Preachers feel that they should get paid when they preach at outings but that the musican is to be left hanging.  IF you are a dedicated musician, you are present before, sometimes even more often than the Pastor at events and have to be in tune with the flow of the spirit, the service, the musicians, the choir director and the cues of the Pastor or speaker of the hour.  This is not to complain, but to let everyone know that there is a price to pay with every gifting.  If you don't want to deal with this, maybe you shouldn't be a minister of music.  But as for me, I love what I do and would not trade what God has given me or where he has placed me for anything!     
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: under13 on May 22, 2008, 02:37:40 PM
I dont get paid to play, but I also dont follow the Pastor around, dont play at evening services, funerals, fish frys or any other special event. You gotta draw the line somewhere, cuz churches will use and abuse you.
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: ferrente on May 22, 2008, 03:27:08 PM
Good Topic!
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: ferrente on May 22, 2008, 03:31:29 PM
Here is another good topic!

http://www.learngospelmusic.com/forums/index.php/topic,47122.msg422062.html#msg422062
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: psilentrain1 on May 23, 2008, 11:04:04 PM
You gotta draw the line somewhere, cuz churches will use and abuse you.

YES....I'm thinking about asking for a raise at the church I mainly play at, because lateley we've been doing 3 or 4 services per week.  Plus, we have two HUGE concerts this summer.. A mid-summer concert at the church and we're doing the Southern Baptist Convention's Kingdom J.A.M at Kings Dominion in July. So, after gas, choir rehearsals, band rehearsals, learning plus scoring music for the band, equipment and performance clothes...I'm usually broke, because I'm only paid for Sunday service.  On to Human Resources for me!!!

God Bless!!!
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: Steelpulz on May 24, 2008, 12:25:51 AM
YES....I'm thinking about asking for a raise at the church I mainly play at, because lateley we've been doing 3 or 4 services per week.  Plus, we have two HUGE concerts this summer.. A mid-summer concert at the church and we're doing the Southern Baptist Convention's Kingdom J.A.M at Kings Dominion in July. So, after gas, choir rehearsals, band rehearsals, learning plus scoring music for the band, equipment and performance clothes...I'm usually broke, because I'm only paid for Sunday service.  On to Human Resources for me!!!

God Bless!!!
That is crazy!!! You'd betta fix that!!!
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: psilentrain1 on June 18, 2008, 11:15:43 AM
IMO, there should at least be an attempt to bless the MOM simply because it's in line with the Word of God - I Tim. 6:17 Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine. 18For the scripture saith, thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward. Even though MOM's are not all elders, I think they fall in this category as laborers and ministers through music.

I don't know if anybody pointed this out yet, but for reference that is I Timothy 5:17-18

God Bless!!!!
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: momuzik on June 18, 2008, 01:29:43 PM
my bad. thanks
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: grissle on June 19, 2008, 04:00:38 PM
Playing for the lord is the best thing way to look at this topic. I played for my home church for about 2 years and was not paid. I never brought it up but it went thru my mind alot. I talk to alot of musicians and they pretty much said welcome to the world of musicianship. We'll, one day we had a afternoon program at a nieghboring church and I was asked do I get paid for playing? Next thing I know I was playing and getting paid for it. I guess to make a long story short, if your playing for money and only money you might be in the wrong business,because if its all about the lord the reward will come. I promise you that ;)
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: musallio on June 19, 2008, 07:30:09 PM
Playing for the lord is the best thing way to look at this topic. I played for my home church for about 2 years and was not paid. I never brought it up but it went thru my mind alot. I talk to alot of musicians and they pretty much said welcome to the world of musicianship. We'll, one day we had a afternoon program at a nieghboring church and I was asked do I get paid for playing? Next thing I know I was playing and getting paid for it. I guess to make a long story short, if your playing for money and only money you might be in the wrong business,because if its all about the lord the reward will come. I promise you that ;)

AMEN!
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: jomo7 on July 26, 2008, 09:58:04 PM
Well Doc... think you got the wrong fourm this is the chord posting room. But I get paid very very well at to churchs and thats all i do but i do also do mor than just play chord i have a staff of musicans that im over. i have to make sure that everyone has their parts rite the right changes in the songs and all that good stuff so if you in the MD  postition Heck hey you should get paid. But theres nothin wron with HELPING out churchs that need you but dont have it to pay, But watch them cuz they will take advantage of you.
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: Bdsummerlin1 on July 29, 2008, 11:53:59 AM
Wow this is a good topic.I get paid monthly not much,but it really doesn't matter to me because Its all about the music for me,I love playing and have been since I was nine,I'm 15 now.Next year God is blessing me to be the lead keyboard player in about a year,I'm so excited.But bottomline is there's not a problem with getting paid to play for the church unless its all about the money(deep down in your heart).Spiritually if its not all about the money then you're fine.I see my monthly paycheck as an added benefit of my paying but not an obligation.
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: Steelpulz on July 29, 2008, 12:22:54 PM
First off playing and intrument is a talent but your girt from god is ministering through your gift thats what people don't understand. Im a paid musician and honestly if i played for free i wouldn't be as commited for the simple fact there is nothing you gain from it and plus being a musician in and out of church is a job because of all the time throughout the week you put in to it, i know many people are probably thinking i just go for the money and i dont. If i dont get paid sometimes i dont play cuz people WILLtake advantage of you and u can still worship god without music. For example most churches hire musicians to enhance the service not really to bring people to god through music and if the musician enhances the pastor and the church is satisfied, so what does the musician get out of it if he/she isn't paid the answer is not the filling of the holy spirit and the word cuz everybody gets that and everybody can get it without a organist in the church but the answer in money. Many unpaid musicians and church members don't understand that (no disrespect lol) but what im saying is people flip the script to make it wrong for musicians to get paid!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Yep.
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: tdbdancy on July 30, 2008, 02:08:10 PM
I played for my church(my father was the Pastor) for years and didn't get paid.  But I didn't get mad. I wanted to help and as the ministry grew and time went by they paid me and then there were increases in the pay. When my father died in 2004 I was getting paid a good salary.  My point is, if you use your gift to the glory of God without honestly looking for money-not only will God bless you but will cause those who you labored for to bless you and want to bless you more! God brought someone to the ministry who was in no way related to us - He brought it to everyone"s attention what the going salary was for a musician- they were happy to do all they could to come up mainly because I never complained or asked for money.  So keep praying and everything will work out.



Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: blesedone1 on July 31, 2008, 10:47:07 AM
Is there anyone playing at thier home church and not getting paid?  I'm not and I'm happy.  I'm trying to help build my dad's ministry but I've recieved a lot of criticism from people I thought were genuine.  What's gospel music come to?
I'm faithfully dedicated to God, my leaders, my church and my ministry I don't see the point in being paid because we (musicians) suppose to play for the glory and honor of God. It's the other musicians who attempts to get paid for a living to play what God blessed them with and it's not right! Unless of course your teaching at a school or having classes or something of that nature. I don't feel that any form of payment should be invovled. You have to make sure you're established in a church were they are preaching the word of God, being truthful with the word and not because they are in need of an organist, keyboard player/piano player. Hope this helps! You're not alone God said your gifts will make room.
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: Steelpulz on July 31, 2008, 01:46:52 PM
I'm faithfully dedicated to God, my leaders, my church and my ministry I don't see the point in being paid because we (musicians) suppose to play for the glory and honor of God. It's the other musicians who attempts to get paid for a living to play what God blessed them with and it's not right! Unless of course your teaching at a school or having classes or something of that nature. I don't feel that any form of payment should be invovled. You have to make sure you're established in a church were they are preaching the word of God, being truthful with the word and not because they are in need of an organist, keyboard player/piano player. Hope this helps! You're not alone God said your gifts will make room.
What???? Do you have any scripture to back that up?
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: MinAJ on August 28, 2008, 05:53:27 PM
First I want to apologize for not being on this web site in so long.  Life has guaranteed me to be extremely busy all the time however, it's good to be back.  If you notice I posted this topic in Nov. of 2006.  It is now Aug 2008 and I'm still not being paid at my home church.  I don't say that with resentment but by way of testimony.  God has blessed my finances so much so, that I don't look for anything from the church.  All I ever wanted to do was help my father build his ministry and God saw that in my heart.  Of course there is nothing wrong with getting paid to play, but as some have already said,  if your heart isn't right with God and you're not receiving God's word daily, you're playing with dirty hands ::)
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: blesedone1 on January 20, 2009, 03:36:57 PM
Is there anyone playing at thier home church and not getting paid?  I'm not and I'm happy.  I'm trying to help build my dad's ministry but I've recieved a lot of criticism from people I thought were genuine.  What's gospel music come to?
Yes. I play for my home church, no I am not getting paid.
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: NJDBalla on January 20, 2009, 03:47:07 PM
Why does this keep coming back? :D

and is this really appropriate to this forum?
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: csharp57 on January 22, 2009, 12:14:19 AM
Why does this keep coming back? :D

and is this really appropriate to this forum?

Its appropriate because the organist is usually the lead or MOM.  In a church where musicians are paid he will typically get the biggest portion.

Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: momuzik on January 22, 2009, 06:20:37 AM
Its appropriate because the organist is usually the lead or MOM.  In a church where musicians are paid he will typically get the biggest portion.

As a matter of fact, at some churches the MOM is the second highest paid person next to the pastor.
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: NJDBalla on January 23, 2009, 06:32:35 PM
Its appropriate because the organist is usually the lead or MOM.  In a church where musicians are paid he will typically get the biggest portion.


But this is the Piano/Organ Chords forum...
lol I meant no harm...
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: Antd123 on October 07, 2009, 06:39:11 PM
I think I have a very different situation than everyone. I play at a church I also run the sound and record the service to cd. I attend everything evening services weekend services and I travel but I dont get paid at all, somtimes I dont even get a thank you. Now I use to play the drums at the church and the player we had left to play somewhere else. Now when he played at the church they were paying him.  Now Im not anywhere near as good as he is yet but I learn all the songs they ask me to learn and so on.I guess they feel like since they didnt choose me they dont have to pay me. Now my mother says that I am stupid for playing there when they dont pay me but paid the other guy. I feel torn I love playing here but also I feel I should at least get a donation or somthing. I dont know what do you guys feel?
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: MS MELLOW-D on October 12, 2009, 11:10:28 AM

I believe with all my heart that when you take care of God's business, He will assuredly take care of yours.  I find that those who are payrolled musicians must give(cheerfully), meaning,  the firstfruits of your blessing(i.e. tithes, brothers and sisters), then there is the sacrifical seed(offering) that needs to follow. Any church that I have played for, and I do not say this boastfully, but with gratitude, I never asked for a dime.  Although, in each and every meeting, salary was the subject brought forth, which opened the floor for negotiations.  If the church desires a full-time minister of music, NOTE that I did say FULL-TIME, a salary package(including health benefits, 401 K, etc) should be implemented.  Our caucasian counterparts have no problem in doing so, why, because they fully understand the dynamics of the position that the individual is to secure.  Wake up 21st century church!!!!!!

It takes finances to keep new material in circulation(you know we want to sing every new song we hear on the radio), it takes finances to learn new techiques(i.e. DVD's, workshops), it takes finances to make sure that you have your own equipment(i.e. keyboards), just in case there is not suitable instruments to play when you travel.  In some situations, that may not be the case, but it is good to be prepared. Every church has not embraced the concept of "new technology".

Ministers of music, musicians, whatever the title, have an awesome task, if done correctly.  The Word says, "The servant(labourer) is worthy of his hire.  Pastors, ministers alike are paid for speaking engagements, ....I do know, that if the choir cannot attend, they are just as comfortable in just bringing the musician.  There is ministry in both areas.  Yes, brothers and sisters, it is far more than the money....Live Holy, Thirst and Hunger after Righteousness, Study God's Word, Be a Doer and not a Hearer only, Give God all the Glory, because it is not about you anyway.  I will say this with much conviction, "Your gift will make room for you".  Those who sow sparingly, will reap sparingly.  Those who sow bountifully, will reap bountifully.
Now, for those of you that will play without pay, God is blessing your mind, soul, and body.  And for those of us who will play, get paid, and give God what's rightfully His, I know God is blessing us in the same manner.  LISTEN TO THE HOLY SPIRIT!

Yours in Christ,
MS MELLOW-D
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: PianoWizard on October 16, 2009, 07:44:59 AM
AMEN TO THAT...."MS MELLOW-D"......AMEN TO THAT.

PianoWiz...
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: musicmajordjs on October 26, 2009, 01:43:40 PM
Not trying to sound mean or nothin but does anyone get paid on here???
Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: Gaxton on November 04, 2009, 09:54:45 AM
I've been playing for like ten years now, and I must tell I'm like the only

Instrumentalist (keyboard) who aint getting paid in my area, but its all good.


It doesn't bulge at all. If they decide to start paying I won't mind at all.

Some Musicians do demand to get paid and there's nothing wrong with that at all

so far u ask with the right attitude.

Title: Re: Gettin' Paid to Play?
Post by: musallio on November 24, 2009, 10:06:01 AM
I think I have a very different situation than everyone. I play at a church I also run the sound and record the service to cd. I attend everything evening services weekend services and I travel but I dont get paid at all, somtimes I dont even get a thank you. Now I use to play the drums at the church and the player we had left to play somewhere else. Now when he played at the church they were paying him.  Now Im not anywhere near as good as he is yet but I learn all the songs they ask me to learn and so on.I guess they feel like since they didnt choose me they dont have to pay me. Now my mother says that I am stupid for playing there when they dont pay me but paid the other guy. I feel torn I love playing here but also I feel I should at least get a donation or somthing. I dont know what do you guys feel?

Very noble deed friend.
I'm not saying that those asking to be paid are less nobler than you are.
You know what the Lord has put in your heart, so allow no man to negatively influence you.
There are many things I would like to say you should look out for etc, but it is your decision at the end of the day.

Do you NEED to be paid or do you want to be paid BECAUSE the previous guy was paid?

Whatever the case might be, never lose sight of the bigger picture ;)
All the best with your ministry & may God bless you for all that you have invested in the Kingdom.
I've been playing for like ten years now, and I must tell I'm like the only

Instrumentalist (keyboard) who aint getting paid in my area, but its all good.


It doesn't bulge at all. If they decide to start paying I won't mind at all.

Some Musicians do demand to get paid and there's nothing wrong with that at all

so far u ask with the right attitude.




that.