Using Stems for Rehearsals

Stems are a game-changer for worship team rehearsals. Here's how to use them effectively.

Individual Practice#

Give each team member the stems they need:

Vocalists#

• Instrumental only — Sing with the full band, no competing vocals
• Harmony stems — Learn their specific part
• Melody only — For learning lead lines

Guitarists#

• No guitar stem — Play along with everything else
• Drums + bass — Lock in with the rhythm section
• Full minus lead — Practice lead parts

Drummers#

• Click track — Essential for timing
• Bass + keys — Feel the groove
• Full minus drums — Play with the whole band

Keyboardists#

• No keys stem — Play their part with the band
• Full mix — Understand the context

Bassists#

• Drums + click — Lock in with percussion
• Full minus bass — Play along

Creating Practice Tracks#

Method 1: Direct Download#

1. Download individual stems
2. Share the right stems with each musician
3. They practice with their track

Method 2: Custom Mix#

1. Import stems into a DAW (GarageBand, etc.)
2. Mute or lower specific instruments
3. Export custom practice tracks
4. Share with your team

The Click Track#

A click track is a steady metronome beep:

• Keeps everyone in time
• Essential for in-ear monitors
• Drummers rely on this

Getting the Click Track#

1. Download stems
2. Include the click track option
3. Share with your drummer/band

Rehearsal Schedule Idea#

Before Rehearsal (Individual)#

• Musicians practice with their stem tracks
• Learn the songs at their own pace
• Come prepared

At Rehearsal (Together)#

• Run through songs as a band
• Make adjustments
• Work on dynamics and transitions

After Rehearsal (Polish)#

• Take home stem tracks
• Polish problem sections
• Be ready for Sunday

Related Articles:

• Downloading Stems
• Working with Click Tracks
• Exporting Materials for Your Team