Curt (continued): What about someone just to repair mic cables once a month? Or how about someone to do the scheduling of volunteers? Someone else to do the tape duplications, and deal with masters? Another person to order supplies, go pick up batteries, et al? There are lots of things to be done.

Curt (continued): That probably didn't answer your question. What you're talking about is a spiritual issue. As the tech director, you're in effect their pastor. It's your responsibility to redirect their path, if you will. If they can't or won't, then maybe it's time for them to find a new ministry?

Maureen: Is mixing something that can be taught or is it pretty much a talent?

Curt: Great question. Some would suggest that someone who is going to mix should have formal music training. That's easy for me to say - I've been a player since I was in elementary school, and have a music degree.

Curt (continued): But then again, I know some great mixers who don't have any formal training, don't play an instrument, but have a love of music. My teacher in college didn't think you could train someone to mix. I'm not so sure I agree. I think you can, but it doesn't happen in a single workshop. And it doesn't happen overnight. It has to run its course and it depends on the person's drive to learn.

Curt (continued): And it has to come from the heart, with a love of music. Especially the kind of music that we're mixing, the words that are expressed.

Keith: But don't you think there should be some aptitude (talent, gift,) as well as desire to learn?

Curt: How do you gauge that? That's like telling someone they can't sing, when maybe all they need are some lessons. There are some who shouldn't be behind a mixing console, and that's why I suggested other alternatives for tasks they can perform. It's clearly an individual thing.

Mike Van Tubergen: We have done an "apprenticeship" training over several services. First, the new tech watches, and asks questions, and then they get the chance to mix, with lots of help. Gradually they get to be on their own, with a seasoned tech beside, just in case they need help. When we're comfortable with their abilities and decision-making behind the mixer, we let them try it alone for an evening service or a simple service.

Curt: That's certainly the typical approach, because it works. If I'm in charge, I'll never let anyone mix until I'm confident in his or her abilities. When I am, I get to go worship with the rest of the congregation. As the leader, you have the authority and the responsibility to reach around the person who is mixing and either make an adjustment yourself, or at least tell them "I could use a little more lead vocal”. Make it gentle. Don't crush their spirit. Lead them, coach them, and encourage them to build the mix you're looking for.