Every week, we get to listen to the amazing members of the chapel band lead us in worship. From “Goodbye Yesterday” to “Reckless Love,” their talent shines in front of the Upper School. While we only get to see them once a week, the students on this team work all week long, deciding what songs they are going to sing and preparing to lead the worship on Thursday. 

“Rehearsals look different depending on the day of the week.  We choose which songs we are going to play, make chord charts for the songs using our knowledge of music theory and assign people to instruments,” said senior Lila-Belle Mutch. “Leading up to Thursday, we spend the majority of our time playing through each of the songs and making sure everyone feels comfortable with their parts.”

Every person in the chapel band plays a vital role in how the song is going to sound. From Lila Belle playing piano to Tommy Massie on the guitar, they have practiced to lead students and teachers in worship. 

 “Before leading or participating in a service, I’ll be really nervous, but I’ll have to remember that leading worship is not for the glory of others, it’s for the glory of God and that’s all that matters. So if I’m nervous, I will pray and ask God to help me to remember who and what it’s all about,” said Massie.

The members of the band dedicate their time and their skills to worship the Lord and to help their student body. For many people, they have been playing their instrument for most of their lives, but Mr. Darnell welcomes new people and is skilled with leading and preparing his students. 

“We have a rhythm for each class period before Thursday. On Mondays, we’re typically listening to songs and imagining what our roles could be if we choose it. We’re practicing music theory together and learning how the song works,” said Darnell. “ On Tuesday we’ll start practicing the songs we’ve chosen, and it’s really clunky and messy, but that’s a good place to start! We understand  what we need to practice on our own that night. On Wednesday we polish the songs and pack up for Thursday’s Fresh Air.”

The preparation that the team takes to make chapel special is amazing. They truly dedicate themselves to glorifying the Lord with their gifts and serving the school. 

All the members of the chapel band team have a God given gift that they use to serve and glorify Him!