Have the Proper Tools in your belt

Whasup folks! I had an experience recently when asked to assist at one of our sister churches with a worship service. We took 4 Of our guys over to help out...a quick rehearsal 3 hrs before to go over the material...they pass out some charts, I'm cool, my brother's cool too, because we read but the keyboardist doesn't and from the count off, the very first chord, the worship leader picked up right away that it was not what she was used to hearing and we couldn't go any further until the right one was played! She handed him a fresh chart and pointed out the chord, to which he responded, I don't know what you're talking about! He is an excellent player...by ear....and in mostly urban styles and key centers...so I don't wanna take anything away from what he DOES have....BUT.....this is the thing, if music is going to be your "thing" please make sure that you have the proper tools at your disposal when you go in. Most "church musicians" have become satisfied with learning A bunch of "tricks" and the fundamental elements of being a well rounded musician have fallen by the wayside...neglected for the "microwave mentality" of this younger generation. Tools like knowledge and application of scales and modes, basic chord structures, even in triad form are like a foreign language...and these basic elements are what most of today's contemporary music is based on and all of the inversions and reharmonizations that twist up ya face are not needed all the time and don't even sound good in certain contexts!
The ability to read even basic charts is gonna be essential as well! If you get called in to sub, like I have and have to learn 50 songs for a stage show in ONE rehearsal with NO reference CD...you had better know how to navigate a chart man!!! Learning to read even basic charts will enable you to land more work as a musician....get that tool and keep it sharp! There will be times that tricks and fools gold on your instrument won't cut it and the real deal needs to be there. The one element that goes missing or under addressed is the ART of ensemble playing! Knowing what your job is and how you fit in the band is something most players are still trying to figure out....some in vain, because they are so busy trying to show everyone what they can do, till the sound of the band suffers as a result. Check your ego at the door and don't even pick it up when you go back out....it will not serve you well when you're trying to land a job and keep it! Be teachable...and stay teachable!!Get all the tools you need and fill your belt with them to use at your discretion!
Till next time, Blessings to you!!.....Bayce3