You will need to have attained a very good level of proficiency with your instrument. This will be revealed in your audition, but you are expected to try to continue to improve in your skill. Having played in a band setting is a definite asset. Recording experience as an instrumentalist is another great asset, including the ability to follow with a song using headphones. Being able to read music is another great asset, as well as the ability to take notes for specific cues.
You will need an instrument that is of good quality, well taken care of, and one that you know how to make the best sound with and one that helps you perform well.
Guitarists, have your own tuner (required), supply of picks, effects pedals, and other gear you feel that you need in order to get a good sound, other than your axe. It is recommended that you tune your strings after every song or as often and as quickly as possible.
Drummers, have your own sticks. Some drummers also like to bring their own cymbals. If you like to wear fully ear-covering headphones (i.e. circumaural), which often provide better bass response, feel free to do so. Esthetically, those headphone types are not distracting to the congregation since the drummer is located at the back of the band.
Keyboardists, a grand piano and a home-style Roland synthesizer with non-modifiable sounds is provided in the band area of the sanctuary. On certain occasions, more keyboards may be needed and we will need to discuss bringing in other keyboards.
Additionally, because all members of the band monitor with in-ear monitors (headphones that fit inside your ears) including vocalists, the way we listen to ourselves and the band is very different from the traditional monitoring for bands, which is with floor monitors or "wedges". The in-ear monitor sound is generally clearer and more detailed, so you will likely need to adjust your listening technique and how you respond with your voice. The level of microscopic detail that you will experience will take some adjustment, for which you will need to be aware. You will eventually learn how best to maximize this valuable resource.
