I've played piano since I was 6 and love it. I still think piano is one of the most beautiful and expressive instruments. When I was 12 or 13 I grabbed my Mum's acoustic guitar and got her to show me a few chords. She gave me a well worn guitar book that I think she learned from, and I became
a bit of a recluse in my room singing and playing every night! A few months later, she took me to a guitar store planning to buy me a cheap acoustic. I
fell in love with a red electric that looked like the cover of my Dad's 'The Shadows' album. So we came home with the electric and an amp, and I have
loved playing electric guitar ever since!
What is your view of what a worship leader is?
My favourite definition is simply a 'lead worshipper'. Someone who is standing with their brothers and sisters, worshipping God and giving them an example to follow. I think it should be someone who can lead with strength, so people have a clear musical direction, yet someone who becomes invisible, turning people's eyes onto Jesus alone.
In your opinion, what aspect of being a worship leader is most often overlooked?
Probably the invisibility aspect; feeling secure in disappearing as you lead, and not feeling the need to prove yourself with over playing or by only using your own songs. Also, the importance of being a worshipper in the secret place; ministering to God's heart privately, as well as in public. One of my mentors said to me that worship leading is like an iceberg; what the public see above the water should only be the tip of what lies underneath in your private walk of worship with Jesus.
Tell us about your current ministry to women worship leaders.
I love ministering to both men and women, but a large amount of the people who I come into contact with at events are women. Many of them say they don't know too many female worship leaders and need support and encouragement to keep going. So I like to keep in touch with them and help them find an encouragement network in their own town or state.
Are there any new places or people that God is calling you to minister to?
Well, currently I am finding my way around the new country and culture of the USA. I fall in love with it more every week and am so pleased to be here! This where I feel God leading me to be, and to focus on. I am also excited to now be working with Compassion International, and am looking forward to working hand in hand with them, to minister to and be a voice for the poor. That is such a vital part of worship...to live out the songs we sing, by reaching out to those in need.
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