Finally serving in ARPC

I was invited for an "audition" on Saturday only to find out that they wanted me to play in the service later that evening. Just like in Grace 1, ARPC's music team needs to play on Saturday and Sunday. They were gracious (actually desperate as their drummer was out of town) to let me play that evening, but not the next morning due to work.

Oh man, it may not be like the usual charismatic kind of worship which I was so accustomed to with set musical arrangements and the worship leader literally dictating how we should play. Many times I took chances in building a groove that might force a return to the chorus, etc. This time however was nonetheless challenging to play without a drum shield, which required me to control my volume; playing the song only once or twice as rehearsed with little time for improvisation; thus there were no hand signals to give instructions. Please don't even think I was playing with lesser skilled musicians. The team may not be locking and grooving together that well, but every individual players were excellent! There were times when you could hear everything joining up nicely. It simply shows the great potential they have to really lock in to the music. One thing I must mention is that. I have never played so much swing in my life! Yes, in that few hours, Jassy went into some swinging tune and I just try my best to swing along. Oh, I luv it!

The main problem with playing in ARPC was a technical one which was the volume of the snare drum. Just before the service started, I had an idea to place my hoodie over the snare drum to play. The result was a muffled, 70s sounding snare with a more manageable volume control. Even at a controlled level, I couldn't do without ear protection. I thank God I am used to it even when playing softer than usual volume.

I really can't wait to play next month if my schedule allows. I just have to wait and see. Oh how I miss playing the drums to God in church. Thank God for that opportunity last weekend!