NASHVILLE — An innovative two-day conference aimed at developing the next generation of worship leaders will take place in Nashville next month. The Next Gen Worship Project, scheduled for May 2 – 3 at First Baptist Nashville, offers an immersive training experience for youth, college students, and young adults interested in serving their churches through worship ministries.
The event is designed to create a pipeline of worship talent for local churches by teaching and developing skills in leading songs, playing instruments, media and technology operations, and songwriting. Participants will learn from some of the region’s most experienced worship leaders, pastors, artists, songwriters, and church tech directors. The conference will also feature a surprise special guest who is a Dove Award-winning artist.
“This conference is specifically designed for those who feel called to lead the Church through worship in various capacities,” said Jay Barbier, one of the organizers of the event. “We’re bringing together experienced professionals to help mentor the next generation of worship leaders.”
The conference begins Friday evening, May 2, with check-in at 6:30 p.m. and sessions running from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. It continues Saturday, May 3, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with breakfast included. Main sessions will be held in the newly renovated “Chapel @ Broadway” at First Baptist Nashville, located at 108 7th Avenue South in the heart of Music City.
Each main session will feature three components: a worship experience led by special guests, a “live lab” offering behind-the-scenes insights into the creative and spiritual process of worship planning, and talks on core topics including calling, worship theology, and leadership principles.
Saturday’s schedule includes specialized breakout sessions covering vocals, guitar, tech, songwriting, keys, percussion, and the calling of a worship leader. Bringing instruments is optional for participants.
The registration fee is $49 per person, with payment by credit card only. The fee is non-refundable. Lunch on Saturday will be at the nearby Assembly Food Hall at attendees’ expense.
Church leaders are encouraged to identify and sponsor promising young worship leaders in their congregations to attend this developmental opportunity. Registration is available online at https://tn.sbcworkspace.com/pub/event/register/55237843.
For additional information, interested parties can contact Jay Barbier at jbarbier@tnbaptist.org.
